Raise Your Right Hand and… November 15, 2006
Posted by dlogan in : SLJSummit2006 , trackbackFacilitator Christopher Harris started the School Library 2.0 group session by having us all raise our right hands and promise to not whine. Our task was to look at where we need to be headed without lamenting the past and present and without dwelling on roadblocks. Panelists David Warlick, Diane Chen, Michael Stephens and Doug Achterman then proceeded to share examples of Web 2.0 technologies along with ideas for integrating them in to library instruction and operations. While one of the main tasks of the group was to define School Library 2.0, Christopher’s opening was one of the things that I think needs to be taken from the Summit.
Two weeks before the SLJ Summit, Joyce Valenza’s presentations at OELMA’s annual conference in Ohio, sparked considerable discussion on our state listserv. Some angst over barriers prompted people to help each other by sharing ideas for getting around the barriers to using Web 2.0 technologies in school libraries. Filters and technology departments were just two of the obstacles that were discussed. The group responded with a variety of resources and ideas.
The focus for School Library 2.0 needs to be opportunities instead of obstacles. Moving school libraries into Web 2.0 has tremendous potential. Over and over SLJ Summit speakers emphasized that content and collaboration are two of the key components of Web 2.0. Content and collaboration are two of the specialties of school libraries. When we look at School Library 2.0 and how we are going to implement aspects of it into our programs, the emphasis needs to be on the opportunities. We need to find, share and use powerful School Library 2.0 examples with our decision makers and stakeholders in order to shape our programs to meet the needs of 21st century students.
Comments»
While I am in total agreement about the future of collaboration and learning communities, I like many others face the challenge of facing those who control the infastructure and network within my school division who are reluctant to allow students and teachers access to the technologies that Internet 2.0 provides. Does anyone have any compelling arguements to use with others to convince them of the educational posibilities and how to avoid security issues?
Charlie