This blog has been set-up as part of the SJPL and SJSU Learning 2.0 project to encourage all of us to experiment and learn about the new and emerging technologies that are reshaping the context of information on the Internet today.
The Virtual Services Task Group (SJPL & SJSU staff) modified The Learning 2.0 program designed by Helene Blowers, Technology Director, Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County and is loosely based upon Stephen Abram's article, 43 Things I (or You) might want to do this year (Information Outlook - Feb 2006) and the website 43Things.
The design of this online program was completely built on Web 2.0 technologies that are freely available on the Internet. These sites include: Blogger, Flickr, Odeo, YouTube, PBWiki & Bloglines.
1. How does this online learning program work?
This is a self-discovery program which encourages SJPL & SJSU employees to take control of their own learning and to utilize their lifelong learning skills through exploration and play. Employees are encouraged to work together and share with each other their discoveries, techniques and "how to's" both in person and through their blogs.
2. Is this program open to all SJSU & SJPL employees or just some?
This program is open to ALL library employees regardless of position and status (full and part time).
Participants who complete the entire course will receive a flashdrive and will be entered in a drawing for other prizes.
Non-regular staff members, please note that you will need to do the lessons outside working hours. Also, you are ineligible for any incentives offered.
If you are not a SJSU or SJPL employee, you are welcome to follow along, however the library cannot award you any prizes for completion. We will add your blog to our participants page if you are interested.
3. How long do I have to complete the program?
The program kicks off January 8th and ends March 30, 2007. You are expected to work on an exercise each week with the complete support of your manager. You may work ahead of course! And yes, from home if you want since this course is web based and not tied to your computer at work.
4. How do I track my progress for each of the 23 Things?
Each employee that chooses to participate in this program will be required to keep a blog to track his or her progress.
5. Will there be any training classes offered to show staff how to do this?
No, this is a self-directed learning program. We will send out weekly emails providing helpful hints and contact information. You are also encouraged to be resourceful and to find a co-worker or another staff member who can help. And be sure to share your knowledge and expertise too! There may be some group lab time in various branches during the course.
To find a list of staff participating see The Participants.
6. I would like to earn the flash drive but don't feel comfortable with my co-workers reading my blog, can I participate anonymously?
Since you control all the information that you share on your blog, you can choose to use a screen name to identify yourself to keep yourself anonymous. However, in order to receive the flash drive and qualify for other prizes, you will need to identify yourself by sending an email to the Virtual Services email account. The VS team will not share your identity with anyone.
7. Who is the Virtual Services Team?
Lucille Boone, Joan Bowlby, Yvonne Cortez-Cabral, Jean Herriges, April Gilbert, Joe Ho, Christine Holmes, Sue Kendall, Mary Nacu, Mary Nino, Tim Reif, Lorene Sisson, Sandra Stewart.
