Thursday, September 20, 2012

Prezi and PowerPoint


I found that working with PowerPoint and working with Prezi software were very different. Probably since I have used PowerPoint before I found it was easier to manipulate content and present concepts than Prezi. For me, using the Prezi was difficult and frustrating. This could possibly be because it was the first time I used it. I watched the “how to” videos on the Prezi website several times, but just could not figure out how to spruce my Prezi up. After I completed my Prezi, I thought it seemed drab compared to the ones that I had seen under the “Learn” section. I tried experimenting with different types of frames and colors; I could not seem to keep the size of the text in my frames consistent. I like PowerPoint because the slides have nonmoving frames; each frame is its own (contained) canvas. I think that a person’s learning style might have a lot to do with the preferred method of making presentations. For example, I think my muscle memory is wired to present in a logical order; do this first, do this second, do this third and finish.

            When I tried to go back and edit my Prezi I ended up making a big mess, and had to start over. Creating PowerPoint and Prezi presentations require background leg work. Such as choosing logos, finding them on the internet and pasting them onto a clip board to have ready to add to the presentation. This goes for adding YouTube videos, one must view the videos before choosing one to insert.  Although I found it more logical making the PowerPoint presentation, when I viewed Prezis that were done exceptionally I thought they were more interesting to watch than a PowerPoint presentation. I think that is because Prezis are generally more animated than PowerPoint presentation. With regards to an instructional library kiosk, I would recommend using a step by step PowerPoint.

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Web 2.0 Technologies


RGianni LIS 6303
Module 2: Blogging about Web 2.0 and/or Emerging Technologies
A.)   There are many uses for libraries to use Web 2.0 technologies. The main use of Web 2.0 tools is to connect. Libraries rely on connecting and keeping patrons informed by using these FREE tech tools and adding new patrons and or keeping existing patrons. Some of the different tools being used in libraries are including a Facebook link on their library website; Library Blogs, Twitter, Flickr.
These tools such as Facebook, Library Blogs, Twitter and Flickr have similar functions, they create a virtual library for patrons. Many of these social networking/Web 2.0 tools are frequently used by patrons in different applications, eg., logging into one’s facebook regularly.
Having library’s participate in today’s online presence is important. The Web 2.0 tools differ from the Web 1.0 or what is basically referred to as “the world wide web, or the web.”  The main difference is that Web 2.0 all for users to interact and participate with others via writing/posting, collaborating on projects such as wikkis.
Libraries are also adding RSS icons to their library’s websites. Those interested in subscribing to a particular library need to click on the site and add it to their reader (I just learned how to do this). J I think the RSS feeds a great way to save time and keep up on what’s going be it with local activities in one’s library or in the world.
The only thing that seems to be a concern about the use of Web 2.0 technologies in libraries may the issue of privacy. Some libraries have a staff who are in charge posts as not to let anything inappropriate be posted on their website. In the USA, we are fortunate to have freedom of speech. In some countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia, Web 2.0 and social networking tools are controlled by their governments.
    B.)     The University of South Florida’s (USF)library participates in being a friend by liking them on Facebook. One thing I like about Facebook is that one is able to “like” an organization and see what is going on without any pressure to post something, for which I did, that’s fun! Here’s the link for the library: http://www.lib.usf.edu.ezproxy.lib.usf.edu/?utm_campaign=generallink&utm_medium=&utm_source=blackboard&utm_content=bblibrariesmap If you like to become a fan of the USF library just look for the Facebook icon Description: http://www.usphs.gov/images/home/facebook-logo.png. Another Web 2.0 tool used by the USF library is Twitter. Description: https://twitter.com/images/resources/twitter-bird-blue-on-white.png With this tool, one is able to participate in adding a comment, and finding out what others are saying about a particular topic. I found out that USF has iPads available to be checked out! Here is the link for USF Twitter: https://twitter.com/USFLibraries


   
      References
   Click, A.  &  Petit, J. (20107). Social networking and Web 2.0 in information literacy. International Information And Library Review, 42(International Perspectives on Information Literacy and e-skills), 137-142. doi:10.1016/j.iilr.2010.04.007

L    Lammers, D. (2012). Still Facing Obstacles to Web 2.0 Use by Your Library? Try Henrico's Approach. Virginia Libraries, 58(1), 26-28.

T   Tripathi, M., & Kumar, S. (2010). Use of Web 2.0 tools in academic libraries: A reconnaissance of the international landscape. International Information & Library Review, 42(3), 195-207.