Oh, Glory Glory, Praise Praise!
Thank You, Lord! Thank you for the kind advice from my cohort 7 classmates, especially Dana, Allison and Wendy, who guided me to FINALLY being able to load my images and links on my webpage! Yippee and yahoo!
Now that I have been able to submit my work, I can get excited for our vacation and get some R and R before I begin the insanity of a new school year!
I know one thing for sure -- I am going to be more patient than ever with kids who don't "get it," because I sure didn't "get" a lot of this technology! Thank heavens for helpful classmates and understanding professors and TAs! Woo hoo!
Ocean City, here we come! I can finally read Harry Potter 7!
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
When networks don't help :(
This morning I cried into my coffee cup when I read this article in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette: http://www.pittsburghpostgazette.com/pg/07212/805648-55.stm
The gist of the story: a 13 year old girl shot and killed her father. Apparently, the girl's mother and her neighbors knew the father had been sexually and physically abusing the girl for years. The mother was unsuccessful in wresting custody from the father, and the neighbors apparently said NOTHING to the authorities, even though one neighbor was quoted as saying, "The whole street knew about it. . .He abused them both. Some nights I would hear her screaming, 'No Daddy No'".
WHY DIDN'T THE NEIGHBORS HELP HER? WHY? According to the article, the abuse had been happening since the girl was 7 -- now she is 13 and has murdered her father. I just can't understand how people could let those terrible things happen to a child and never step in.
What's the use of being connected, of living in a neighborhood, if people ignore the horrors that they see? I feel so sick and sad. All of the lofty ideals of networks we've been studying seem dashed by this pitiful example of the selfishness of humanity.
As an educator, it is my legal responsibility to report suspected child abuse or suspected substance abuse by the student. I can be held liable in a court of law if I neglect to report abuse.
But even if I weren't an educator, if I heard a child being abused, I wouldn't just sit idly by and let it happen.
The gist of the story: a 13 year old girl shot and killed her father. Apparently, the girl's mother and her neighbors knew the father had been sexually and physically abusing the girl for years. The mother was unsuccessful in wresting custody from the father, and the neighbors apparently said NOTHING to the authorities, even though one neighbor was quoted as saying, "The whole street knew about it. . .He abused them both. Some nights I would hear her screaming, 'No Daddy No'".
WHY DIDN'T THE NEIGHBORS HELP HER? WHY? According to the article, the abuse had been happening since the girl was 7 -- now she is 13 and has murdered her father. I just can't understand how people could let those terrible things happen to a child and never step in.
What's the use of being connected, of living in a neighborhood, if people ignore the horrors that they see? I feel so sick and sad. All of the lofty ideals of networks we've been studying seem dashed by this pitiful example of the selfishness of humanity.
As an educator, it is my legal responsibility to report suspected child abuse or suspected substance abuse by the student. I can be held liable in a court of law if I neglect to report abuse.
But even if I weren't an educator, if I heard a child being abused, I wouldn't just sit idly by and let it happen.
Monday, July 30, 2007
irony?
I find it ironic that I am a peer mentor to 2 new folks in Cohort 7.5 and yet I am still struggling with CSS and images in my webpage. I surely won't be able to be a technology mentor for these ladies!
But hopefully my honesty about my own techno-stupidity will be comforting to them. When it's laugh or cry, better to laugh, right?
But hopefully my honesty about my own techno-stupidity will be comforting to them. When it's laugh or cry, better to laugh, right?
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Networks -- they're everywhere!
Each Sunday I scan the television guide that comes along with my Pittsburgh Post Gazette. I got into this habit when I started teaching -- I like to be at least aware of what's on, even though I rarely watch it -- so that I can have a reasonable entrance point of conversation with my students. (They aren't usually fans of the Food Network like me!)
Coming up this week is a reality program airing on ABC called "Six Degrees of Martina McBride". Slated to air from 9-11 PM on Monday, July 30, here's the description by PPG TV writer Rob Owen, "If you want to make it in showbiz, it helps to know someone -- or, in the case of this special, know someone who knows someone who knows someone who knows someone who knows Martina McBride. Using the old "six degrees" formula that says we're all connected through six or fewer people, six aspiring singers try to establish a link to the country music star. A record deal awaits the one who can do it -- and outsing the competition."
I wonder if Milgram would applaud this, or if he'd be sickened by it?
It just cracks me up the way that these concepts keep popping up all around me. Maybe it's a sign that I'm in the right program! :)
Coming up this week is a reality program airing on ABC called "Six Degrees of Martina McBride". Slated to air from 9-11 PM on Monday, July 30, here's the description by PPG TV writer Rob Owen, "If you want to make it in showbiz, it helps to know someone -- or, in the case of this special, know someone who knows someone who knows someone who knows someone who knows Martina McBride. Using the old "six degrees" formula that says we're all connected through six or fewer people, six aspiring singers try to establish a link to the country music star. A record deal awaits the one who can do it -- and outsing the competition."
I wonder if Milgram would applaud this, or if he'd be sickened by it?
It just cracks me up the way that these concepts keep popping up all around me. Maybe it's a sign that I'm in the right program! :)
teen technology addiction
According to today's broadcast of TeenKidsNews on ABC, psychotherapist Alice Fortinberry believes that today's teens spend too much time communicating via email or text messages instead of face to face communication. Fortinberry postulates that the constant barrage of messages is contributing to an increasing rate of ADHD among young people.
The TeenKidsNews anchor, Felipe, advocated reducing text messaging in favor of more face-to-face communication.
As a teacher, I have been frustrated by the lack of courtesy in my students' emails. Maybe I'm "old school," but I always include a salutation in my emails, and I try to be direct but polite. Yet I constantly get one-sentence demands from students asking for a grade update or for help on an assignment. Sadly, often this behavior is the same in person -- kids seem to have no qualms interrupting me when I'm speaking with another student or teacher, or even when I'm in the middle of a lesson. I've always felt that part of my job as an educator is to assist students in developing life skills so that they can be active, responsible citizens. The lack of manners I see in some of my students is worrisome, indeed. Of course, many kids are polite and respectful, but it seems that the rude ones stand out in my memory!
The TeenKidsNews anchor, Felipe, advocated reducing text messaging in favor of more face-to-face communication.
As a teacher, I have been frustrated by the lack of courtesy in my students' emails. Maybe I'm "old school," but I always include a salutation in my emails, and I try to be direct but polite. Yet I constantly get one-sentence demands from students asking for a grade update or for help on an assignment. Sadly, often this behavior is the same in person -- kids seem to have no qualms interrupting me when I'm speaking with another student or teacher, or even when I'm in the middle of a lesson. I've always felt that part of my job as an educator is to assist students in developing life skills so that they can be active, responsible citizens. The lack of manners I see in some of my students is worrisome, indeed. Of course, many kids are polite and respectful, but it seems that the rude ones stand out in my memory!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Networks!
I am enjoying the crazy intersection of theory and life. Our readings in The Laws of the Web and Linked dealt with the concept of social networks. Milgram's experiment and the entertaining Kevin Bacon game demonstrate the truly connective nature of our world.
Last night, I experienced my own funny "network" moment. My husband and I attended a dinner party at the home of a former co-worker of mine. Meghan was an intern in our school for a year and served a year for a colleague's maternity leave -- and then she landed a job in a different district. We've stayed in touch and get together every few months. There were sixteen people at the party. I expected to know only the hosts and my co-worker Todd and his girlfriend Melanie.
However, to my surprise and delight, I discovered connections to other party guests! Mike and Gina and their newborn son were in attendance. I grew up two streets away from Mike and went all through school with him. We even belonged to the same church. Mike's wife Gina grew up with Meghan, the hostess!
Another party guest, Don, teaches with Meghan. He and his wife Beth used to live in our townhouse complex! We recognized them as soon as they walked in to the party and had fun talking about our neighbors and local hot spots.
As we laughed about what a small world it is, I told the guests that I'd have something fun to add to my blog. They agreed that it is always fun when you see a real connection to a concept you're studying.
I figure since Meghan and her husband hosted the party, they are "connectors" in the way Barabasi and Gladwell define them: "people with an extraordinary knack of making friends and acquaintances. . .an extremely important component of our social network. They create trends and fashions, make important deals, spread fads, or help launch a restaurant" (55-56). Meghan is always on the cutting edge of fashion, and since she is a high school teacher, she wields lots of influence. Their home is beautifully decorated in contemporary style: rich, saturated colors and gorgeous art adorn the walls; funnky furniture and accessories make the home trendy and fun. Her husband Mike is a realtor, and he sells commercial and residential properties all over the area. They have connections with people in many different fields and age levels.
Groovy!
Last night, I experienced my own funny "network" moment. My husband and I attended a dinner party at the home of a former co-worker of mine. Meghan was an intern in our school for a year and served a year for a colleague's maternity leave -- and then she landed a job in a different district. We've stayed in touch and get together every few months. There were sixteen people at the party. I expected to know only the hosts and my co-worker Todd and his girlfriend Melanie.
However, to my surprise and delight, I discovered connections to other party guests! Mike and Gina and their newborn son were in attendance. I grew up two streets away from Mike and went all through school with him. We even belonged to the same church. Mike's wife Gina grew up with Meghan, the hostess!
Another party guest, Don, teaches with Meghan. He and his wife Beth used to live in our townhouse complex! We recognized them as soon as they walked in to the party and had fun talking about our neighbors and local hot spots.
As we laughed about what a small world it is, I told the guests that I'd have something fun to add to my blog. They agreed that it is always fun when you see a real connection to a concept you're studying.
I figure since Meghan and her husband hosted the party, they are "connectors" in the way Barabasi and Gladwell define them: "people with an extraordinary knack of making friends and acquaintances. . .an extremely important component of our social network. They create trends and fashions, make important deals, spread fads, or help launch a restaurant" (55-56). Meghan is always on the cutting edge of fashion, and since she is a high school teacher, she wields lots of influence. Their home is beautifully decorated in contemporary style: rich, saturated colors and gorgeous art adorn the walls; funnky furniture and accessories make the home trendy and fun. Her husband Mike is a realtor, and he sells commercial and residential properties all over the area. They have connections with people in many different fields and age levels.
Groovy!
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Ah, the '80s
As I've been working on laundry, looking at the hot topic presentation and taking care of the dog tonight, in the background I had the Fox Movie Channel, which tonight featured one of my favorite '80s movies: Romancing the Stone. It's cheesy, it's hokey, it's cute, it's Micheal Douglas, way before Catherine Zeta-Jones and his facelift.
And Kathleen Turner was soooo beautiful! She actually looked like a woman! You know, a woman. With real curves. No silicone in sight! Real hair! Real hips! GORGEOUS! And Michael Douglas didn't seem to mind.
Oh, I miss the '80s.
And Kathleen Turner was soooo beautiful! She actually looked like a woman! You know, a woman. With real curves. No silicone in sight! Real hair! Real hips! GORGEOUS! And Michael Douglas didn't seem to mind.
Oh, I miss the '80s.
the end (of summer) is near!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!
The back to school ads have begun. I only have a few short weeks to get ready!
I have lots of work to finish for my Pitt classes! And I have lots of work to do to get ready for school! And I didn't succeed in those summer fitness goals! AAAAAA!
I finally have started working on the curriculum revisions for my American Literature and Composition course. My co-teaching partner, Tom, and I are focusing on differentiated instruction this year. We want to make the course accessible and rigorous for learners of all ability levels.
I'm looking forward to working with our school librarian and media specialist, Christy, to improve the research component of the course. I want to incorporate book talks for the two new outside reading selections, increase training on the evaluation of websites and databases and focus on teaching research as a process.
As my supervisor says, education is one of the few professions that offer a clean start every new school year. Like Anne Shirley's mentor, Miss Stacey, told Anne in the LM Montgomery books, "Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it!"
The back to school ads have begun. I only have a few short weeks to get ready!
I have lots of work to finish for my Pitt classes! And I have lots of work to do to get ready for school! And I didn't succeed in those summer fitness goals! AAAAAA!
I finally have started working on the curriculum revisions for my American Literature and Composition course. My co-teaching partner, Tom, and I are focusing on differentiated instruction this year. We want to make the course accessible and rigorous for learners of all ability levels.
I'm looking forward to working with our school librarian and media specialist, Christy, to improve the research component of the course. I want to incorporate book talks for the two new outside reading selections, increase training on the evaluation of websites and databases and focus on teaching research as a process.
As my supervisor says, education is one of the few professions that offer a clean start every new school year. Like Anne Shirley's mentor, Miss Stacey, told Anne in the LM Montgomery books, "Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it!"
developing dropsy?
I fear that the prolonged periods of time sitting in front of my computer this summer are beginning to wield negative effects upon my coordination. In the past three days I have dropped many items. Some, like my purse, keys, cereal box -- didn't cause any problems. But that Corelle bowl and (oh God!) my coffeepot carafe shattered in about seventy zillion pieces (each!) and I was afraid that Fawn would get a sliver in one of her paws, so I swept the floor repeatedly. I was never exactly graceful before, in fact I never grew out of that "awkward phase" of bumping into stuff -- but I wasn't such a Butterfingers!
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
The crushing weight of despair
I used to think that I was a relatively intelligent person. But after a week of failing to succeed at simple tasks such as embedding images into my webpage, I am feeling crushed by the despair.
I keep reading the discussion board suggestions, and I try them, but something is always missing. I go in and out of Kompozer and FileZilla, but my updates don't publish.
Oh Lord, why am I stupid?
I keep reading the discussion board suggestions, and I try them, but something is always missing. I go in and out of Kompozer and FileZilla, but my updates don't publish.
Oh Lord, why am I stupid?
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Trapped by Journals!
I was shocked and dismayed to hear of the struggles of three local libraries in the face of exorbitant and abusive journal subscription prices. Representatives from the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, The University of Pittsburgh/UPMC Health Systems Library and the Carnegie Mellon Library explained that the rapid rise of scholarly journal publications has resulted in a reduced offering of titles for libraries. It seems that libraries are at the mercy of despotic journals which insist on demanding obscene prices for yearly subscriptions. Since annual budgets are never enough, most libraries must reduce the journal subscriptions.
It made me so mad to think about the abusive treatment the libraries are enduring -- and even madder that it seems impossible to combat. Yet the ladies who spoke with us remained steadfastly commmitted to their jobs, and committed to finding alternative sources of funding.
It made me so mad to think about the abusive treatment the libraries are enduring -- and even madder that it seems impossible to combat. Yet the ladies who spoke with us remained steadfastly commmitted to their jobs, and committed to finding alternative sources of funding.
Representatives create excitement in new cohort of library learners Part II
In addition to Ms. Kenney, we Fast Trackers heard from Denise Callahan, Director of the PPG Library; Mary Grace Kelley, school librarian for the Keystone Oaks middle school, and Connie Salvayon, director of libraries for CCAC.
It was so exciting to hear about the real-work experiences of these women. Ms. Callahan explained that her background in Chemistry equipped her for specialized research with PPG scientists. Since I've spent my career in education, I truly enjoyed hearing about librarianship in a corporate setting.
Ms. Kelley's inspiring story of how she turned a paltry $1200 yearly budget into $35,000 with the help of parent organazations and community fundraisers was absolutely amazing. Ms. Kelley clearly loves her job -- her genuine enthusiasm shone through as she shared her experiences with us.
Ms Salvayon offered helpful tips on the types of skills up and coming librarians need to develop in order to compete in the job market. I know that the Fast Trackers appreciated this candor!
It was so exciting to hear about the real-work experiences of these women. Ms. Callahan explained that her background in Chemistry equipped her for specialized research with PPG scientists. Since I've spent my career in education, I truly enjoyed hearing about librarianship in a corporate setting.
Ms. Kelley's inspiring story of how she turned a paltry $1200 yearly budget into $35,000 with the help of parent organazations and community fundraisers was absolutely amazing. Ms. Kelley clearly loves her job -- her genuine enthusiasm shone through as she shared her experiences with us.
Ms Salvayon offered helpful tips on the types of skills up and coming librarians need to develop in order to compete in the job market. I know that the Fast Trackers appreciated this candor!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Representatives create excitement in new cohort of library learners Part I
This morning, Cohort 7 was treated to two fabulous panel discussions featuring representatives from the library profession. I left feeling really invigorated and excited about the future.
Ms. Jo Ellen Kenney spoke with us about her career as a public librarian (with a brief period spent in schools). The head director of the Carnegie Library of McKeesport, Ms. Kenney was wonderfully warm and real. She had a bold sense of humor and was very straightforward in acknowledging the challenges of public librarianship along with the joys. She emphasized the importance of knowing, understanding and respecting the culture and history of the community and of committing to serving the population. Recently, one of Ms. Kenney's branches was shut down in conjunction with the closing of the Duquesne school district -- but luckily, regional leaders have fought to reinstate the branch.
I was moved by Ms. Kenney's obvious passion and commitment to her patrons and to the library profession. Her honesty and genuineness truly impressed me. Ms. Kenney's representation of "the real world" of libraries was an eye-opening and inspiring experience.
Ms. Jo Ellen Kenney spoke with us about her career as a public librarian (with a brief period spent in schools). The head director of the Carnegie Library of McKeesport, Ms. Kenney was wonderfully warm and real. She had a bold sense of humor and was very straightforward in acknowledging the challenges of public librarianship along with the joys. She emphasized the importance of knowing, understanding and respecting the culture and history of the community and of committing to serving the population. Recently, one of Ms. Kenney's branches was shut down in conjunction with the closing of the Duquesne school district -- but luckily, regional leaders have fought to reinstate the branch.
I was moved by Ms. Kenney's obvious passion and commitment to her patrons and to the library profession. Her honesty and genuineness truly impressed me. Ms. Kenney's representation of "the real world" of libraries was an eye-opening and inspiring experience.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
cooperation!
Today was full of cooperation :)
Our True Gods of Sound and Stone group discussed the future of libraries this morning. It was great to hear and see everyone live instead of in our postings on the DB!
This afternoon, I worked with my small group to plan our presentation on website evaluation. We are really developing some camaraderie!
Our True Gods of Sound and Stone group discussed the future of libraries this morning. It was great to hear and see everyone live instead of in our postings on the DB!
This afternoon, I worked with my small group to plan our presentation on website evaluation. We are really developing some camaraderie!
Monday, July 16, 2007
all about the SLCP
Today I enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by Dr. Biagini for all of the school library Fast Trackers. We shared the experiences which led us to train as school librarians. Several of us have teaching backgrounds: Kristin C, Laura, Kristin F, Michelle, Ellen and I are all currently teaching in classroom. Allison and Amy are currently school librarians. Shahnyn, Erika and Dana have worked in public libraries, and Lauren is ready for a big change from her finance job. It was invigorating to hear everyone's excitement about this program of study. Dr. Biagini invited one of her former students, an elementary school librarian in Atlanta, Georgia, to speak with us about her Fast Track experience and her first year in the school library. Ann told us that the teachers in her school are having mixed reactions to moving to a flexible, instead of a fixed, library schedule, but that she is truly happy with her job.
I am so glad that we have this week on campus. Now that I can associate faces with names, I feel like much more of a real community of learners. Our school library group is a little smaller, so we'll really get a chance to get to know each other well!
I am so glad that we have this week on campus. Now that I can associate faces with names, I feel like much more of a real community of learners. Our school library group is a little smaller, so we'll really get a chance to get to know each other well!
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Another gatekeeper by the wayside?
The Tuesday, July 10 edition of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette featured an article by Boston Globe columnist Matthew Gilbert about the plummeting power of MTV. According to Gilbert, programs such as youtube, myspace and itunes have replaced the cultural cache MTV once yielded. "Pop and its spectacles are playing at a computer near you. . . MTV seems to have grown too passive, or too smug, to even reckon with those obvious obstacles." Gilbert explains that the "viral video" phenomenon once the exclusive terrain of MTV directors and video editors is now utilized by teenages with imacs.
MTV used to be the "gatekeeper" of what was cool. New music artists got their starts with world premier videos and interviews on Total Request Live (TRL). The concept of the reality show began with the first season of The Real World in New York. If you wanted to be culturally literate in the tenth grade, you needed to watch MTV.
But apparently, in 2007, the democracy engendered by P2P networks has allowed young people to declare for themselves who is "cool". Therefore, the mighty MTV has been displaced.
This seems similar to the conversation we've had all semester about the idea of the librarian as gatekeeper. In our class conversation today, Dr. Tomer asked us if we perceived librarians as conservative in professional practice. While several classmates mentioned examples of colleagues reluctant to embrace new technology or new pedagogy about information delivery, other classmates spoke of librarians eager to adopt new policies to better serve their patrons. While Mike suggested that generational differences might be to blame for the difference in approach, Eric felt that the deep seated fear of new methods was rooted in the fear that the role of the librarian may become obsolete in the technology driven culture.
Some people do seem to feel that librarians aren't necessary anymore. Recently, at a neighborhood picnic, I mentioned my new studies in the Fast Track program. One of my neighbors said (not unkindly, "Why do we even need librarians? Anything I need, I get it on the web." When I stated that librarians help patrons to sift through the mountains of information and manage what they find, he said, "I don't buy that."
(Since it was a friendly gathering of neighbors and since I'm very new to the profession, I didn't push the issue.)
But there are probably lots of folks out there like my neighbor, Justin. Librarians need to utilize all of the technology and media outlets available to send the message "We're here and you need us!" And as Ms. Mahoney told our cohort today, "we're available live in person, on the phone, through email, or through instant messaging!"
Gilbert, Matthew. (2007, July 10). "Once essential, a lame MTV no longer calls cultural tune." pp. C-6.
MTV used to be the "gatekeeper" of what was cool. New music artists got their starts with world premier videos and interviews on Total Request Live (TRL). The concept of the reality show began with the first season of The Real World in New York. If you wanted to be culturally literate in the tenth grade, you needed to watch MTV.
But apparently, in 2007, the democracy engendered by P2P networks has allowed young people to declare for themselves who is "cool". Therefore, the mighty MTV has been displaced.
This seems similar to the conversation we've had all semester about the idea of the librarian as gatekeeper. In our class conversation today, Dr. Tomer asked us if we perceived librarians as conservative in professional practice. While several classmates mentioned examples of colleagues reluctant to embrace new technology or new pedagogy about information delivery, other classmates spoke of librarians eager to adopt new policies to better serve their patrons. While Mike suggested that generational differences might be to blame for the difference in approach, Eric felt that the deep seated fear of new methods was rooted in the fear that the role of the librarian may become obsolete in the technology driven culture.
Some people do seem to feel that librarians aren't necessary anymore. Recently, at a neighborhood picnic, I mentioned my new studies in the Fast Track program. One of my neighbors said (not unkindly, "Why do we even need librarians? Anything I need, I get it on the web." When I stated that librarians help patrons to sift through the mountains of information and manage what they find, he said, "I don't buy that."
(Since it was a friendly gathering of neighbors and since I'm very new to the profession, I didn't push the issue.)
But there are probably lots of folks out there like my neighbor, Justin. Librarians need to utilize all of the technology and media outlets available to send the message "We're here and you need us!" And as Ms. Mahoney told our cohort today, "we're available live in person, on the phone, through email, or through instant messaging!"
Gilbert, Matthew. (2007, July 10). "Once essential, a lame MTV no longer calls cultural tune." pp. C-6.
Getting to know you. . .
One of my favorite songs from musical theater is "Getting to Know You" from The King and I. I've been humming it all day, because this morning cohort 7 engaged in a fun icebreaker activity. I discovered that:
Sree, Kathleen, Laraine and I are all singers
Amy and I both have degrees from Slippery Rock University
Sarah and I both spent time studying in the UK
Consuelo, Erin and I share Irish heritage
Lydia and I both enjoy Indian cuisine
Ryan and I are Dickinson graduates
Jewel and I both love being aunts
As our on campus week continues, I will look forward to
"all the beautiful and new things I'm learning about you day by day!"
Sree, Kathleen, Laraine and I are all singers
Amy and I both have degrees from Slippery Rock University
Sarah and I both spent time studying in the UK
Consuelo, Erin and I share Irish heritage
Lydia and I both enjoy Indian cuisine
Ryan and I are Dickinson graduates
Jewel and I both love being aunts
As our on campus week continues, I will look forward to
"all the beautiful and new things I'm learning about you day by day!"
Great introduction to library services
This morning, Ms. Elizabeth Mahoney led our cohort through an introduction to library services. Ms. Mahoney stated that sometimes library science students are afraid to ask questions for fear that their competency in the discipline will be doubted. She reassured us that we are expected to ask questions so that we can learn! As a teacher, I say these kinds of things to my students -- so why was I reluctant to consult the reference librarian at Hillman last week? I guess that there's a little awkward middle schooler in all of us!
PA libraries may lose funding
I shared this article from the Saturday, July 14 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette with my True Gods of Sound and Stone group.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07195/801514-74.stm
The Keystone Park and Recreation Fund usually spends 4% of its annual budget on library expansion and repair projects. Last year that 4% = $4 million.
Due to the recent budget woes, the state Senate has proposed to transfer $40 million of the Keystone Fund's budget to cleanup of hazardous waste, which would result in a loss of $1.6 million for library funding. While such clean-up is surely necessary, perhaps the funds for it could be obtained from another source so that the usual recipients of Keystone monies are not adversely affected.
In an editorial printed by the PG staff on the same day as Hoover's article, http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07195/801593-192.stm
the editors decry the plans to reduce the Keystone Fund's budget and suggest that State Rep. Kate Harper's plan, to take $40 million from the $650 million surplus, is a better option.
It seems that whether public, academic or school, libraries must fight tooth and nail to secure funding!
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07195/801514-74.stm
The Keystone Park and Recreation Fund usually spends 4% of its annual budget on library expansion and repair projects. Last year that 4% = $4 million.
Due to the recent budget woes, the state Senate has proposed to transfer $40 million of the Keystone Fund's budget to cleanup of hazardous waste, which would result in a loss of $1.6 million for library funding. While such clean-up is surely necessary, perhaps the funds for it could be obtained from another source so that the usual recipients of Keystone monies are not adversely affected.
In an editorial printed by the PG staff on the same day as Hoover's article, http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07195/801593-192.stm
the editors decry the plans to reduce the Keystone Fund's budget and suggest that State Rep. Kate Harper's plan, to take $40 million from the $650 million surplus, is a better option.
It seems that whether public, academic or school, libraries must fight tooth and nail to secure funding!
exciting first day on campus!
Wow! Yesterday was an exciting first day on campus with my fellow Cohort 7 members. I really enjoyed meeting people and putting faces with the names from the discussion board.
I found the Cohort 6 presentation very comforting -- it's great to know that I'm not the only one who is finding the technology learning curve rather steep! :) It was great to see how close the Cohort 6 members have become in their time together. As a definite "people person", I've had a little trouble figuring out the "rules" of online learning. I'm so happy that this week I'll get to forge positive working relationships with my classmates. Understanding the people behind the DB postings will really make class feel more like a community.
I was nervous yesterday, and I think others were, too. It made me chuckle that a group of wannabe librarians was sitting rather quietly in the Crawford building, waiting for the program to begin! :) Hopefully we will all get over our "awkward" jitters as the week progresses.
I was also excited to see Dr. Alman and Dr. Tomer "in the flesh" after the Coursecasts. Dr. Biagini gave a terrific historical perspective on library studies at Pitt and even on the Pittsburgh community.
I attended Dr. Biagini's dinner at Ali Baba -- what a delectable meal! I was very pleased to get to meet Rhonda and Jennifer, two of my Funding group collaborators, and Allison, one of my True Gods group members. Cindy, Erika, Jennifer M, Sree and Catherine were also at the dinner. We had fun discussing the new Harry Potter book and our eagerness (or lack of eagerness, for Erika) to read The Deathly Hallows!
I feel excited having been through our first day on campus and look forward to another great day!
I found the Cohort 6 presentation very comforting -- it's great to know that I'm not the only one who is finding the technology learning curve rather steep! :) It was great to see how close the Cohort 6 members have become in their time together. As a definite "people person", I've had a little trouble figuring out the "rules" of online learning. I'm so happy that this week I'll get to forge positive working relationships with my classmates. Understanding the people behind the DB postings will really make class feel more like a community.
I was nervous yesterday, and I think others were, too. It made me chuckle that a group of wannabe librarians was sitting rather quietly in the Crawford building, waiting for the program to begin! :) Hopefully we will all get over our "awkward" jitters as the week progresses.
I was also excited to see Dr. Alman and Dr. Tomer "in the flesh" after the Coursecasts. Dr. Biagini gave a terrific historical perspective on library studies at Pitt and even on the Pittsburgh community.
I attended Dr. Biagini's dinner at Ali Baba -- what a delectable meal! I was very pleased to get to meet Rhonda and Jennifer, two of my Funding group collaborators, and Allison, one of my True Gods group members. Cindy, Erika, Jennifer M, Sree and Catherine were also at the dinner. We had fun discussing the new Harry Potter book and our eagerness (or lack of eagerness, for Erika) to read The Deathly Hallows!
I feel excited having been through our first day on campus and look forward to another great day!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
funny airport encounter
I drove to the airport in a weird rain/hailstorm to pick up my husband, who spent a fun week in Las Vegas with his buddies. As I sat at the baggage claim waiting for his flight to arrive, reading and highlighting one of my textbooks, I saw a young woman come in and sit down near me. She pulled out a copy of "Linked" and started reading. I thought, this girl has to be a fellow Fast Tracker -- and she was! Kristin was waiting to pick up Erin, her roommate for our on-campus week!
It was really great to meet two classmates before getting on campus! :)
It was really great to meet two classmates before getting on campus! :)
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
My little web page
I forgot to post my new little web page location -- oops!
I'm still working on adding the images and links.
http://www.pitt.edu/~mas254/
I'm still working on adding the images and links.
http://www.pitt.edu/~mas254/
Happy Happy Joy Joy
Oh, Happy Happy Joy Joy, Happy Happy Joy!
Ren and Stimpy's old chorus of glee is a perfect expression of my relief -- finally I have successfully added 20 books on Postcolonial theory and literature to my virtual shelf on the Koha site. Yippeee!
Now, sometime before I die (and way after this degree is complete) maybe I can try to actually read a few of these selections!
Here's my URL:
http://pitt2.kohawc.liblime.com/cgi-bin/koha/bookshelves/shelves.pl?viewshelf=47
Ren and Stimpy's old chorus of glee is a perfect expression of my relief -- finally I have successfully added 20 books on Postcolonial theory and literature to my virtual shelf on the Koha site. Yippeee!
Now, sometime before I die (and way after this degree is complete) maybe I can try to actually read a few of these selections!
Here's my URL:
http://pitt2.kohawc.liblime.com/cgi-bin/koha/bookshelves/shelves.pl?viewshelf=47
Monday, July 9, 2007
Blech!
Blech!!!!! Stupid Koha! I've been on and off that program since 10 am and it keeps giving me the error message! I can add maybe 2 books to my virtual shelf before it kicks me out. Grrrr.
As I was penning this grumpy missive, my network went down. Oh piddle!
In addition to being technologically stymied, I feel crummy. Even though I am still taking 45 minute walks with Fawn up and down hills and trying to do some reps with my free weights, I am spending way too much time sitting on my bum in front of my laptop. When I consider making a gym run, I feel like it's out of the way (it's closer to work than home, so not as convenient for me in the summer). I fear my bum might not fit on the chair by the end of this summer, let alone the end of the program! AAAA! I need one of those futuristic work stations with a little treadmill attached.
I wonder if my fellow Fast Trackers feel like we're on the fat track!
As I was penning this grumpy missive, my network went down. Oh piddle!
In addition to being technologically stymied, I feel crummy. Even though I am still taking 45 minute walks with Fawn up and down hills and trying to do some reps with my free weights, I am spending way too much time sitting on my bum in front of my laptop. When I consider making a gym run, I feel like it's out of the way (it's closer to work than home, so not as convenient for me in the summer). I fear my bum might not fit on the chair by the end of this summer, let alone the end of the program! AAAA! I need one of those futuristic work stations with a little treadmill attached.
I wonder if my fellow Fast Trackers feel like we're on the fat track!
I know I'm getting older when . . .
I had to pull an all-nighter and a half-the-nighter last week to accomplish my work, and I'm still recovering. What happened to that young woman who could bounce back from a series of late-night sessions and subsist on Diet Mountain Dew and Twizzlers?
I'll tell you what happened -- she got old! Teachers get UP at 5 AM, they don't meander back to their beds, eyes straining from the laptop, at that time. (Maybe it was also because I was working in my quiet house, while my husband slept upstairs and the dog snored on the couch, instead of in the hot, crowded computer lab or my dorm room with my roommates cheering me on and doing their own studying!)
Last evening, when I'd given up on the Library VPN service and it was cool enough to take the dog for a walk, I heard an old familiar sound. A little girl was playing the recorder for her brother, and she was trying to work out the notes to "Mary Had a Little Lamb". Suddenly, I was six years old again, practicing my recorder, looking at my music on that little wire stand.
It goes so fast! I celebrated my fifth anniversary on Friday. Five years! Married! Good Lord, wasn't I just getting my braces off?
I take comfort in the fact that I have been abundantly blessed, and though I still have catching up to do with my coursework, I'm really excited about what I'm learning, and I'm feeling good about my choice to prepare for a change in my career. (Plus, the dog just trotted up and gave me an unsolicited kiss. How can it get any better than that?)
I'll tell you what happened -- she got old! Teachers get UP at 5 AM, they don't meander back to their beds, eyes straining from the laptop, at that time. (Maybe it was also because I was working in my quiet house, while my husband slept upstairs and the dog snored on the couch, instead of in the hot, crowded computer lab or my dorm room with my roommates cheering me on and doing their own studying!)
Last evening, when I'd given up on the Library VPN service and it was cool enough to take the dog for a walk, I heard an old familiar sound. A little girl was playing the recorder for her brother, and she was trying to work out the notes to "Mary Had a Little Lamb". Suddenly, I was six years old again, practicing my recorder, looking at my music on that little wire stand.
It goes so fast! I celebrated my fifth anniversary on Friday. Five years! Married! Good Lord, wasn't I just getting my braces off?
I take comfort in the fact that I have been abundantly blessed, and though I still have catching up to do with my coursework, I'm really excited about what I'm learning, and I'm feeling good about my choice to prepare for a change in my career. (Plus, the dog just trotted up and gave me an unsolicited kiss. How can it get any better than that?)
When the Librarian becomes "the bad guy" (or girl)
In our studies of copyright law and the role of the librarian, I've been thinking about some issues we've encountered in the high school in which I teach.
Three years ago, our old (and I mean that in both contexts: former and OLD!) librarian, who was stuffy and formal and not very welcoming, retired, and a new, young librarian took over. She had been working as a librarian for several years in another building in the district and assumed the high school position.
As per her training (from Pitt, by the way), our cheerful new librarian set about making changes. She greatly expanded the library webpage, adding sections for links for each course and teacher, and posting helpful links for documentation of resources, book suggestions and "fun stuff". She established several book clubs for different groups of students. She re-decorated the library with catchy reading posters and enjoyable images. She set up a smartboard for demonstrations with students and teachers. She worked with teachers to create lessons that developed critical thinking skills and the understanding of the research process.
And, she began to "weed out" the stacks. She never announced that this was happening, but went about the process because she had been trained to do so. She saw it as her professional responsibility to eliminate books that were not being used or that were so outdated as to no longer be appropriate sources for research. The books were donated unless they were in such bad shape that they belonged in the trash pile.
But the high school faculty, especially my colleagues in the English department, did not take kindly to this "weeding". Like Nicholas Baker, who decried the loss of archival texts in Double Fold, my colleagues unleashed a torrent of rage upon our new librarian. They demanded to be consulted about any future discards. She agreed, sending messages inviting staff to look at the latest selections and to take book for use in a classroom collection.
Our new librarian had always intended to ask the staff to suggest titles of new books to add to the collection, titles that would complement the curriculum and that would provide excellent options for free reading. And the staff responded with many requests, which the new librarian dutifully ordered.
I thought that it was really unfortunate that this new professional was labelled as "bad" because she was trying to do her job. Some teachers remained bitter about the "weeding incident" for a long time.
I think this situation reveals a problem: the teachers in the building saw the library's holdings as their own, and the librarian saw the stacks as her domain, shelves crowded with outdated books. After the incident (and with intervention from administrators)communication was established between stakeholders.
In addition to the myriad copyright problems we've discussed, what are some other circumstances that might prompt library patrons to label the librarian as "the bad guy"?
Three years ago, our old (and I mean that in both contexts: former and OLD!) librarian, who was stuffy and formal and not very welcoming, retired, and a new, young librarian took over. She had been working as a librarian for several years in another building in the district and assumed the high school position.
As per her training (from Pitt, by the way), our cheerful new librarian set about making changes. She greatly expanded the library webpage, adding sections for links for each course and teacher, and posting helpful links for documentation of resources, book suggestions and "fun stuff". She established several book clubs for different groups of students. She re-decorated the library with catchy reading posters and enjoyable images. She set up a smartboard for demonstrations with students and teachers. She worked with teachers to create lessons that developed critical thinking skills and the understanding of the research process.
And, she began to "weed out" the stacks. She never announced that this was happening, but went about the process because she had been trained to do so. She saw it as her professional responsibility to eliminate books that were not being used or that were so outdated as to no longer be appropriate sources for research. The books were donated unless they were in such bad shape that they belonged in the trash pile.
But the high school faculty, especially my colleagues in the English department, did not take kindly to this "weeding". Like Nicholas Baker, who decried the loss of archival texts in Double Fold, my colleagues unleashed a torrent of rage upon our new librarian. They demanded to be consulted about any future discards. She agreed, sending messages inviting staff to look at the latest selections and to take book for use in a classroom collection.
Our new librarian had always intended to ask the staff to suggest titles of new books to add to the collection, titles that would complement the curriculum and that would provide excellent options for free reading. And the staff responded with many requests, which the new librarian dutifully ordered.
I thought that it was really unfortunate that this new professional was labelled as "bad" because she was trying to do her job. Some teachers remained bitter about the "weeding incident" for a long time.
I think this situation reveals a problem: the teachers in the building saw the library's holdings as their own, and the librarian saw the stacks as her domain, shelves crowded with outdated books. After the incident (and with intervention from administrators)communication was established between stakeholders.
In addition to the myriad copyright problems we've discussed, what are some other circumstances that might prompt library patrons to label the librarian as "the bad guy"?
Thanks to technology, it's a small world after all
In the past two weeks, I have tuned in to two concerts broadcast to my television from around the world.
On July 1, while we celebrated my mom's birthday, we watched the Concert for Diana from London. (I've been a major Anglophile all my life, and loved living in England during 1996-1997. Diana died shortly after I returned to the U.S.) Although satellite technology has been around for a long time, and although I remember watching the Live Aid concert in my youth, it still impresses me that we can experience what someone on the other side of the world is watching.
This past weekend, as I waded through my ever-increasing piles of work, I had the Live Earth concert feed from the HD network on my television. I saw artists performing at simultaneous concerts in New Jersey, Washington D.C., Hamburg, Shanghai, London and who knows where else. Millions of people all over the world watched along with the thousands experiencing the music live -- all in the name of environmental awareness (though it did strike me as rather ironic to see concert attendees sipping drinks out of the forbidden plastic cups, and I pondered how much energy all of the amps and lights used, and how many carbon footprints were used up flying the artists hither and yon. But it was a lovely moment, and I shan't indulge in my cynicism).
I haven't really used Skype yet, but I'm glad it exists. It's an especially valuable program for military families who are split up due to deployment.
I'd like to think that being more connected to each other will make us more peaceful creatures -- but the daily news seems to prove me wrong. And if all of those people all over the world could come together in the name of halting global warming, why couldn't they do the same thing for the people of Darfur? Or the "invisible children" in Uganda? During Macy Gray's performance, I saw that her white satin dress had been emblazoned with "Darfur".
Hmmm. . . I seem to be getting cynical after all (it must be all of the technical difficulties of my LIS 2600 assignments getting me down!)
On July 1, while we celebrated my mom's birthday, we watched the Concert for Diana from London. (I've been a major Anglophile all my life, and loved living in England during 1996-1997. Diana died shortly after I returned to the U.S.) Although satellite technology has been around for a long time, and although I remember watching the Live Aid concert in my youth, it still impresses me that we can experience what someone on the other side of the world is watching.
This past weekend, as I waded through my ever-increasing piles of work, I had the Live Earth concert feed from the HD network on my television. I saw artists performing at simultaneous concerts in New Jersey, Washington D.C., Hamburg, Shanghai, London and who knows where else. Millions of people all over the world watched along with the thousands experiencing the music live -- all in the name of environmental awareness (though it did strike me as rather ironic to see concert attendees sipping drinks out of the forbidden plastic cups, and I pondered how much energy all of the amps and lights used, and how many carbon footprints were used up flying the artists hither and yon. But it was a lovely moment, and I shan't indulge in my cynicism).
I haven't really used Skype yet, but I'm glad it exists. It's an especially valuable program for military families who are split up due to deployment.
I'd like to think that being more connected to each other will make us more peaceful creatures -- but the daily news seems to prove me wrong. And if all of those people all over the world could come together in the name of halting global warming, why couldn't they do the same thing for the people of Darfur? Or the "invisible children" in Uganda? During Macy Gray's performance, I saw that her white satin dress had been emblazoned with "Darfur".
Hmmm. . . I seem to be getting cynical after all (it must be all of the technical difficulties of my LIS 2600 assignments getting me down!)
Sunday, July 1, 2007
More Grazr fun
I'm following the Grazr instructions. Yippee!
http://grazr.com/gzpanel.html?addbar=off&file=http://grazr.com/data/greyhoundlover/export.opml
http://grazr.com/gzpanel.html?addbar=off&file=http://grazr.com/data/greyhoundlover/export.opml
My Grazr Widget
Whoa, this is exciting.
I have successfully ( I think!) created a Grazr widget.
Here is my Grazr widget badge:
I have successfully ( I think!) created a Grazr widget.
Here is my Grazr widget badge:
I'm cursed
I must have angered the gods of the computer world.
I'm cursed!
I finally made some progress with my tagging assignments and even got into the Pitt Library VPN with my Mozilla Firefox.
I was all excited for tonight's chat to review for the quiz.
The Chat will not load on my computer. I uninstalled and reinstalled Java several times -- no luck! I tried in Mozilla and in IE.
Oh, why am I cursed?
:(
I'm cursed!
I finally made some progress with my tagging assignments and even got into the Pitt Library VPN with my Mozilla Firefox.
I was all excited for tonight's chat to review for the quiz.
The Chat will not load on my computer. I uninstalled and reinstalled Java several times -- no luck! I tried in Mozilla and in IE.
Oh, why am I cursed?
:(
Family Fun
Today is my mom's 58th Birthday -- Happy Birthday, Mom!
To celebrate, my husband cooked a delightful feast of Mexican fare, and we ate heartily and enjoyed some Sangria. My niece Eleanor, who is five months old, entertained us with her baby talk. She has two teeth in her bottom gums, and when she smiles, she is so adorable.
I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful family.
To celebrate, my husband cooked a delightful feast of Mexican fare, and we ate heartily and enjoyed some Sangria. My niece Eleanor, who is five months old, entertained us with her baby talk. She has two teeth in her bottom gums, and when she smiles, she is so adorable.
I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful family.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Scary Technology
The small group hot topic presentation on Civil Liberties totally shocked me.
I feel sort of stupid for not knowing about it before, but apparently the US Government will be implementing a program for a mandatory national ID card, implanted with an RFID chip, which will virtually render null and void all privacy. Our driver's licenses and passports will no longer be enough; we will all have to be in possession of these ID cards by May 2008.
"Every move you make" is a great lyric from an 80s Sting song, "I'll Be Watching You". I was never disturbed to hear Sting's voice making that promise, but I surely am not thrilled about the idea of Uncle Sam spying on every purchase I make.
I'm going to forward this youtube video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7pHb7bPfMc
to all of my friends and contact my local representative to lobby against the REAL ID program.
I feel sort of stupid for not knowing about it before, but apparently the US Government will be implementing a program for a mandatory national ID card, implanted with an RFID chip, which will virtually render null and void all privacy. Our driver's licenses and passports will no longer be enough; we will all have to be in possession of these ID cards by May 2008.
"Every move you make" is a great lyric from an 80s Sting song, "I'll Be Watching You". I was never disturbed to hear Sting's voice making that promise, but I surely am not thrilled about the idea of Uncle Sam spying on every purchase I make.
I'm going to forward this youtube video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7pHb7bPfMc
to all of my friends and contact my local representative to lobby against the REAL ID program.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Librarians I have loved
Two weeks ago, I went to a local funeral parlor to pay my respects to an old friend whose father had passed away. As I was leaving, I was delighted to see Mrs. Mueskes, who was one of the librarians at my community library when I was a little girl. I was so excited to see her and to tell her that I was beginning the Fast Track program in Library Science. Mrs. Mueskes was always so kind and helpful -- she truly enjoyed helping library patrons of all ages find just the right book. She would always greet each patron by name, welcoming us back to the library and offering to help us find what we were looking for (or to recommend a new selection if we were in the mood for something new!)
I've also been reflecting upon the other prominent librarians in my life. Mrs. Schubert was my elementary school librarian from kindergarten to third grade. She was a tiny little lady who wore a beehive hairdo (in the 1980s!) and never tired of showing us all kinds of new things. I particularly remember a unit on dinosaurs she taught when I was in first grade -- I became temporarily obsessed with the triceratops and just couldn't get enough of them. Mrs. Schubert was only too happy to meet my need for more information! She was also the woman who taught me how to use the card catalog. I can vividly recall the beige cardstock and the smell of wood and dust when the drawers were opened!
After third grade, my elementary school was closed and turned into a nursing home. At my new school, I met Miss D'Alessio, who was eager to help each of us find something new to get excited about. She helped me find and read every single book in the collection about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I always looked forward to my time in the library, because our new school was so big and scary -- and I knew that the library was safe. I learned to orient myself around the building in relation to the library!
These three women were very important in my life. They fueled my love of reading and made me feel confident in my ability to ask questions and find answers. I think of them with great admiration and respect, and look forward to emulating them in my future career as a librarian.
I've also been reflecting upon the other prominent librarians in my life. Mrs. Schubert was my elementary school librarian from kindergarten to third grade. She was a tiny little lady who wore a beehive hairdo (in the 1980s!) and never tired of showing us all kinds of new things. I particularly remember a unit on dinosaurs she taught when I was in first grade -- I became temporarily obsessed with the triceratops and just couldn't get enough of them. Mrs. Schubert was only too happy to meet my need for more information! She was also the woman who taught me how to use the card catalog. I can vividly recall the beige cardstock and the smell of wood and dust when the drawers were opened!
After third grade, my elementary school was closed and turned into a nursing home. At my new school, I met Miss D'Alessio, who was eager to help each of us find something new to get excited about. She helped me find and read every single book in the collection about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I always looked forward to my time in the library, because our new school was so big and scary -- and I knew that the library was safe. I learned to orient myself around the building in relation to the library!
These three women were very important in my life. They fueled my love of reading and made me feel confident in my ability to ask questions and find answers. I think of them with great admiration and respect, and look forward to emulating them in my future career as a librarian.
Library as community center
When I was growing up, my mother would take my sister and I for weekly library trips. I always looked forward to these chances to browse the stacks, perusing and selecting an armload of new books to enjoy. In the summertimes, we would visit the library in the middle of our pool days, since the municipal plaza held the borough pool, tennis courts, library, police station, and borough offices.
When I got older, my friends and I would meet to do research on school projects. The librarians were always so helpful and never seemed to mind when we'd get a little bit silly.
I love the ways that libraries serve as community centers. I know that the libraries in the surrounding communities offer many enticing programs: children's, tweens and teens book clubs, a speaker series, travelogues, literacy training, seminars in internet safety, technology training for retirees, CPR certification, the works.
The idea of digital libraries can take this concept of the library as a beacon of community growth and development to new heights. John Willinsky really focuses on the concept of the library as a tool for social activism in his book The Access Principle. It excites me to think about the ways that I might contribute to improving the lives of others by serving as a librarian.
When I got older, my friends and I would meet to do research on school projects. The librarians were always so helpful and never seemed to mind when we'd get a little bit silly.
I love the ways that libraries serve as community centers. I know that the libraries in the surrounding communities offer many enticing programs: children's, tweens and teens book clubs, a speaker series, travelogues, literacy training, seminars in internet safety, technology training for retirees, CPR certification, the works.
The idea of digital libraries can take this concept of the library as a beacon of community growth and development to new heights. John Willinsky really focuses on the concept of the library as a tool for social activism in his book The Access Principle. It excites me to think about the ways that I might contribute to improving the lives of others by serving as a librarian.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
emerging from the pit
I've been woefully behind on my blog. It's the end of the school year and I have been buried in a pit of research papers and literary analysis essays. I am finally beginning to emerge from the "pit of despair"and rejoin the land of the living (and the land of the bloggers!)
As I've been wallowing in my grading responsibilities, I've been pondering how technology might change the role of the English teacher in the years to come. Although I have occasionally used the "add comments" feature on Word to offer comments to my students on drafts, I find the program cumbersome and only use it for a few papers -- when I have whole class sets, I use the trusty colored pens instead and put my reflections in cursive on the student essay. Some of my colleagues have begun to use blogs to continue class discussion outside of school, but not in replacement of composing actual essays.
In the fall, two of my fellow English department members attended a teacher workshop focused on brain research. The presenter discussed the ways that the brains of today's teenagers differ from the brains of the teenagers of the past. Since these youngsters have grown up with a myriad of technology, they are "hardwired" to respond to technology.
As I've been wallowing in my grading responsibilities, I've been pondering how technology might change the role of the English teacher in the years to come. Although I have occasionally used the "add comments" feature on Word to offer comments to my students on drafts, I find the program cumbersome and only use it for a few papers -- when I have whole class sets, I use the trusty colored pens instead and put my reflections in cursive on the student essay. Some of my colleagues have begun to use blogs to continue class discussion outside of school, but not in replacement of composing actual essays.
In the fall, two of my fellow English department members attended a teacher workshop focused on brain research. The presenter discussed the ways that the brains of today's teenagers differ from the brains of the teenagers of the past. Since these youngsters have grown up with a myriad of technology, they are "hardwired" to respond to technology.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Gee Whiz!
Oh, Gee Whiz!
Right now I am feeling rather fearful. Tonight, we all tried to utilize a new form of chat and it didn't work very well. I couldn't figure out how to use the listen.3mu file without having to give Yahoo my credit card information. My husband was trying to help me and I found myself getting even more frustrated! Who knew I was so technologically challenged?
In addition to feeling totally inept in the technology department, I'm also trying to handle the intensely philosophical voice of Thomas Kuhn and still complete thorough comments on the drafts of my junior students' American Literature research papers. What was I thinking, trying to start a new grad school program at the end of the school year?
Luckily, I think I'm not the only one feeling crazy. Lots of the postings on our discussion boards seem to demonstrate that my new classmates are experieincing similar emotions.
I'm going to think positively and remember that with practice and dedication, I will begin to learn these new skills and complete the assigned tasks.
On the plus side, I tried out the Skype practice call and it worked! So at least that was one positive from the day!
Right now I am feeling rather fearful. Tonight, we all tried to utilize a new form of chat and it didn't work very well. I couldn't figure out how to use the listen.3mu file without having to give Yahoo my credit card information. My husband was trying to help me and I found myself getting even more frustrated! Who knew I was so technologically challenged?
In addition to feeling totally inept in the technology department, I'm also trying to handle the intensely philosophical voice of Thomas Kuhn and still complete thorough comments on the drafts of my junior students' American Literature research papers. What was I thinking, trying to start a new grad school program at the end of the school year?
Luckily, I think I'm not the only one feeling crazy. Lots of the postings on our discussion boards seem to demonstrate that my new classmates are experieincing similar emotions.
I'm going to think positively and remember that with practice and dedication, I will begin to learn these new skills and complete the assigned tasks.
On the plus side, I tried out the Skype practice call and it worked! So at least that was one positive from the day!
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Reflection on first online chat
This evening, Dr. Tomer held our first online chat for the LIS 2600 class. It was really exciting to see everyone logging on throughout the night to ask their questions. I was especially relieved to see that many people had similar questions to mine! For me, the learning curve when it comes to technology is so steep. I know that I'll get the hang of it in time, with lots of practice (and most likely, lots of mistakes, too!)
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
First Blog Post
I'm definitely an English teacher -- I've penned five different versions of my first blog and rejected all of them as unsatisfactory! I'm sure that my students are cackling with glee at this admission.
I am feeling very nervous and excited about the Fast Track program and trying hard not to hyperventilate when I think about all of the new technology I have to learn and use within the next few days! Yikes!
I am feeling very nervous and excited about the Fast Track program and trying hard not to hyperventilate when I think about all of the new technology I have to learn and use within the next few days! Yikes!
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