Okay, let me answer some questions.
* What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey?
I really enjoyed blogging. It made me feel so "hip." During the course of completing Web 2.0, I even created a second blog for a select group of guinea pigs called LAPS (Large Ample Pigs Society.) I volunteered my Hamlet to be the secretary of LAPS so now he keeps an updated register of the members of LAPS using Blogger (wink ;-). Web 2.0 also affected my husband's website, Saturnfans.com. He saw how much fun I was having creating the two blogs and decided to create his own blog using Drupal. It's not as user-friendly as Blogger but that's my husband for you - he's technically savvy.
I also enjoyed using Bloglines. I didn't know what RSS feeds were until learning about it on Web 2.0. Frankly, the term RSS had scared me since learning that Loudoun County had RSS feeds. I'm no longer scared and am subscribed to numerous RSS feeds, even Loudoun County's feed.
Another favorite exercise of mine was using Image Generators. There was such a variety of generators to choose from online and it seemed like every staff member chose a different one. I enjoyed viewing their blogs. That was a learning experience all on it's own.
* How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals?
Completing Web 2.0 has helped me realize that I can accomplish my goals if I really want to achieve the end result. I really wanted an MP3 player for my husband; therefore I completed all 23 exercises. I still haven't learned to sew nor have I learned to speak Spanish. I also haven't sent out any applications to colleges offering a Library Science degree; although I have looked at this option more seriously. I know that I will tackle these goals when I'm ready. Right now, I want to focus on my family, my guinea pig community and becoming a better Library Aide.
* Were there any take-aways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you?
I think another surprise was the availability of web-based applications. I thought Microsoft had dominated that market. It's nice to see other alternatives.
* What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept?
I still think every staff member should be required to learn Web 2.0. I think it would help us serve our patrons better.
Learning Web 2.0 was a great experience. I learned so much! I am truly grateful for this opportunity. We need to get started on Web 3.0 soon. Think about all of the technology that we still don't know about.
* If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you again chose to participate?
Absolutely! Where do I sign up?
