Friday, May 23, 2008

Web Thing #17

Just finished adding my contribution to the Wiki Sandbox. I think I'm done with the Challenge. Thank you to everyone who made this program possible.

Web Thing #2

I've listened to and reflected on the 7-1/2 habits of lifelong learning. I think the easiest for me are accepting responsibility for my own learing and teaching and mentoring others.

I do understand that the easiest way to reach the end of a journey is knowing where the end is before you begin (habit #1) and I can see how viewing problems as challenges can have the potential for avoiding much of the frustration people experience when confronted with problems. But remembering that and refocusing to that direction of approach can be hard at times.

The most difficult for me? Having confidence in myself as a competent, effective learner and using technology to my advantage.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Web Thing #23

My favorite thing about Web 2.0? Probably learning how to manage RSS feeds, followed by coming to grips (?) with Del.icio.us and Technorati.

I can't say there was anything I learned that I didn't like. Some will take more working with before I feel really comfortable. For example, I like Wikepedia and all it does, but as far as it being a personal tool I can create and use regularly -- that's going to take more work and time. But at least I have some basic tools now and I can use those to teach myself. Plus I know which colleagues I can turn to when my personal cognitive abilitite fail me.

Bottom line: I feel much more comfortable with all the giant strides in technology I've been observing from the sidelines for a long time. I'm starting to feel like a player!

Thanks, Web 2.0 Challenge Team. You did a great job and have provided much value to your colleagues.

James

Web Thing #15

I've been reading some of the essays in Library 2.0 and Web 2.0. Wendy Schultz' essay, To a temporary place in time... caused my head to spin a bit, but the concepts, to the extent I can understand them, are thrilling. I just hope I'm still around to be a part of Library 4.0.

The icebergs Rick Anderson talks about are another thing altogether for me. I understand the need to keep pace with the innovations provided by technology and demanded by our patrons. At the interface represented by our local libraries I think we will need to move forward with alacrity or be left in the dust. Nonetheless, I have to say that somewhere, somehow, the tried and true hard copies need to be maintained and preserved.

Web Thing #14

I have been exploring Technorati and have, in fact, joined and begun the process of claiming my blog within Technorati. The following link Technorati Profile is a connection to the process of activating my claim. Wish me luck!

Web Thing #13

Well, after a few attempts I think I'm starting to understand Del.icio.us. And so far I like what I've learned. I have set up my own Del.icio.us account and can see a lot of potential within it for things I have a keen interest in, such as recycling, Going Green, spirituality, horticulture, and on and on and on.

Monday, May 19, 2008

Web Thing #19

For my Web 2.0 Award nomination, I'm putting forth Medstory. This is the type of application that the Internet was built to provide. People need information at their fingertips that will help them make informed decisions about their health. Every source has it's bias points, but with a many inputs to consider, the user can reach her own conclusion as to what is in her best interest overall. Just don't forget to consider the sources as you deliberate!

Web Thing #18

I don't see an purpose for me to use Google Docs at work, but I imagine there will be ways to use it associated with my blog as it continues it's life after the Web Challenge is finished.

Web Thing #21

Finally sucessful at downloading a podcast; you might want to listen to it yourself. It concerns the ongoing horror story that is reality today in Burma. You can find it online at Slate Magazine, under the title A Drastic Remedy.

Web Thing #22

Well, this one was certainly a challenge. Couldn't do it from my PC and couldn't even do it from PC Plus, in spite of help from one of the Web Challenge team members. Finally was able to complete the Thing using one of the TRIS PC's.

I'm looking forward to the day I can download to my MP3 (after I finish the complete Challenge).

Friday, May 16, 2008

The Office's Jenna Fischer On Letterman

I love The Office and Pam is one of my favorite characters on the show.

Web Thing #20

You Tube, not just for comedy!

But you can find some really funny stuff there if you've got the time!

Web Thing #16

I like Wiki's. To my way of thinking, they capitalize on the creativity and fluidity that the Internet makes possible. I do sometimes worry about the accuracy of some postings -- like everything else, if the answer is vitally important, you need to corroborate or verify. But for a starting point, they're terrific.

And the direct click through to other Wiki postings is fun!

Web Thing #12

I've been using WorldCat for several weeks now; ever since Betsy told me about it. I use it for cataloging my books at home by means of the Dewey Decimal System. (Am I OCD or what?)

LibraryNet was new to me. Opening an account was a snap, but finding a book I wanted to read took some effort. In the end I was sucessful and I certainly (I think) could help someone else find their way around it, too.

Web Thing #10

I know I did #10 already, but I don't know what happened to it. Oh, well. You can find my comment on Jenn's 23 Things. The comment is in response to her latest (final?) post, Thing #23, Wrapping Up.

As far as the matter of technology goes -- I'm at a lost to figure out where all the time went that I saved by using these new-fangled technological innovations. Not complaining, mind you, just wondering!

Web Thing #11

My LibraryThing catalog is set up and ready to be filled to capacity! Here's where to find my library catalog: http://www.librarything.com/catalog/JamesE.

Web Thing #9

Well, I used BlogLines and a few other sources to add to my RSS feeds subscription list. I can't imagine when or how I'll have time to read them all!

Web Thing #8

I've set up my BlogLines account and have subscribed to a broad selection of RSS feeds. Some are mundane, though useful, while others are quirky, thought-provoking, or (sometimes) fun.

Web Thing #6

If you follow this link it will take you to my public Picasa album of photographs from the Titanic Dinner the Friends of the OCL sponsored last September.

Plan to visit the National Aquatic Garden (aka Web Thing #5)


Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is located in the Anacostia section of Washington, DC. We visited there two summers ago and were very taken by the beauty and tranquility we found there. It is truly an oasis in Southeast DC. When you're there you can't imagine that bustling commercial and residential areas are just out of sight and hearing. Follow this link for more information http://www.nps.gov/keaq/.
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