Which Google Tools are most interesting to you at this time? Why?
- I just started introducing Google SketchUp to the kids last week. I am taking the first 10 minutes of their library time to demonstrate it. Several kids have come back to tell me about all the neat things they have done with it. I would like to show them GoogleDocs and even the calendar tool in the coming weeks.
Are you using any of the Google Docs in your professional life? Which ones? If not, which ones might you try first? Are you collaborating with others in your professional life? Are you expecting your students to collaborate? If yes, how are you doing this? If not, where do you think you could do this with your students?
- I began using GoogleDocs this week. As I was evaluating other websites I made a table of the things I liked and didn't like so that I can refer back to it when I work on my library website.
- I have been talking to teachers in my building about GoogleDocs and several are interested in learning more.
What have you learned about PLN's? Which networks do you plan to join or work with?
- PLNs can be a very useful "tool" in gaining much needed information on the latest information on managing a library and on technology. I am currently a member of Classroom 2.0 and am looking into ALA, AASL, and WEMTA. I will have to do some more checking to see which one(s) will be the most beneficial.
Do you think it's important to have a Library Media Center Web Page? Why?
- ABSOLUTELY!! It is a great way to promote everything the library media center has to offer and a great way to make sure the library is an integral part of a school.
- (Louis Question) How has our class and this week's activities effected you in your professional life? Discuss two things that you have learned about this week?
- To be honest, class has stressed me out. I have begun to realize there is so much about my job that I am just learning about. Class and the textbook have been very enlightening. I also learned that I need to advocate for my program; really get out there and sing the praises of my job. I am trying to figure out how I am supposed to be a good advocate when I don't know everything I need to know yet to be that advocate. I know that it will be very important to have this discussion with the other two intermediate school library media specialists in my district (PLN).
So what's Google SketchUp? What does it do, etc... And what grade level were you using it with?
ReplyDeleteI am feeling the same way about being an advocate for my program. I believe the majority of people don't truly understand what a LMS can do for them. I know my position is important and I think my school realized it a bit when we didn't have a LMS for 2 months, but I need to find ways to help sell my program to the staff, students, and parents.
ReplyDeleteI also agree with with you Kari. Just from some of the comments made by the faculty really suggest that they don't know what we do. I'm taking baby steps to get the faculty, students, and parents excited about what the LMS has to offer and what I can offer in conjunction with their classrooms. This might be a slow, uphill battle.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, Jenny, don't worry about being overwhelmed. I think everyone gets somewhat overwhelmed when they first find out about all aspects of our job. But, as you settle into your position, and make use of your PLN, you'll feel less overwhelmed and more excited about how you can contribute to your students' success and how you can help your teachers. It's really quite exciting!!! Just keep working! We (myself and our class members are here to help). Be sure you bring your concerns, questions and success stories to class. I want to hear about all of them!
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