Final Task - Summary

The most important thing I learned from this project is how easy it is to share information with people not only locally but globally. The tools utilized in this tutorial are easy to use and allow users to customize and manipulate their information to create a personalized display. You're only limited by how much information you want to share.

The most challenging aspect for me would probably have to be getting everything to look just right. It takes some trial and error and just using the different tools to figure some things out. Fortunately, the help sections cover much of the basic questions and a little googling usually covers anything else.

PVLD can use these tools and to provide an extra level of interaction with with its community. Any technology that makes it easier to share information benefits all.

I thought the “self-directed” learning model was very effective. I think it encourages staff to be resourceful and learn how to find answers on their own. It definitely is a useful way of encouraging staff development.

Task 10 - Explore MySpace.com

My myspace page,

www.myspace.com/pvldguy

Myspace can be a fun way to interact with friends or even random interesting people who share similar interests. Users should be careful with how much personal information they make available though.

I'm trying to finish this up at the last moment so my friend invite hasn't gone through yet :(

Task 9 - Explore Online Office Tools

Here is what I wrote in my Google Document...

Google Docs & Spreadsheets can be an excellent tool for Library patrons to use. Patrons can use the internet terminals to write documents for school/work etc. without the need for removable media to save the documents. Additionally, patrons can save and edit their work from any computer with internet access.

Task 8 - Explore YouTube.com

Jim Mora's famous playoff rant

(You may or may not be able to watch the embedded video here depending on what computer you're using to access this page)

I always post this on my fantasy football message board during playoff time.

Youtube has really blown up in the last few years. It's a great innovative medium for people from all over the world to share any and all aspects of life.

Youtube username: pvldguy

Task 7 - Explore Wikipedia

Added a blurb to the PVLD wiki entry linking to the library's Calender.

I've been using wikipedia for a long time it seems. It's great that many people can collaborate on entries and keep them up to date. This is can be a downside as well since anyone can make an edit. The wikipedia team as well as those who take pride in the information posted do a great job fixing most errors though.

Wikipedia username: pvldguy

Task 6 - Instant Messaging

[17:16] socalc76: this message will self destruct in....
[17:16] *** Auto-response from PVLD2007: Conratulations! You have successfully sent an Instant Message. Please copy and paste this text into your blog.

The buddy list allows you to see which contacts are online/offline and why (depending on what IM service you use.

Task 5 - Explore Flickr

This cheeky little guy is a Kea, the world's only alpine parrot. They like to get into trouble.

Here's a link to my Flickr page. I quickly threw up a couple pics from my New Zealand trip.