This blog has been set-up as part of "HEB23's -Web 2.0 in 2010" project to encourage staff to experiment and learn about the new and emerging technologies that are reshaping the context of information on the Internet today. The objectives of this program are to:
- encourage exploration of Web 2.0 and new technologies by HEBISD Library Media Services staff.
- provide staff with new tools (that are freely available on the Internet) to better support HEBISDLMS mission: Educating minds, Empowering individuals and Enriching our community.
- reward staff for taking the initiative to complete 23 self-discovery exercises.
The original Learning 2.0 program was designed by Helene Blowers, PLCMC Technology Director, with the support and assitance of several staff and is loosely based upon Stephen Abram's article, 43 Things I (or You) might want to do this year (Information Outlook - Feb 2006) and the website 43Things.The design of this online program was completely built on Web 2.0 technologies that are freely available on the Internet. These sites include: Blogger, Flickr, Odeo, YouTube, PBWiki & Bloglines.Staff Prizes & Incentives: (back to top)
STAFF INCENTIVES
23 Things - Every staff member who completes all 23 things will receive a USB MP3 player* capable of holding at least 256mb worth of data, music and/or audio files. The device can not only be used as a regular USB/Flash drive to store work files, but it can also be used to download and play audio books, music and more.
Staff have until April 30, 2010 to complete all 23 items in order to receive the USB/MP3 Player.
Staff that complete the program by March 31st will receive their MP3 players early and will also be entered into a prize drawing for a brand-new Amazon Kindle or Barnes & Noble Nook! The drawing will take place during our last meeting of the year, May 19, 2010!. In order to qualify for this drawing, staff must have all "23 Things" completed and entered into the tracking log, which must be turned in via email to Kiera no later than March 31st at midnight.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does this online learning program work?This is a self-discovery program which encourages staff to take control of their own learning and to utilize their lifelong learning skills through exploration and PLAY. There will be no classes or workshops offered to support this program. Instead, staff are encouraged to work together and share with each other their discoveries, techniques and "how to's" both in person and through their blogs.
Is this program open to all HEBISD staff or just some?This program is open to ALL HEBISD staff regardless of position and status (full and part time). If you are not a member of the Library Media Services department you are welcome to follow along, however the library cannot award you any staff prizes for completion.
How long do I have to complete the program?The program kicks off at our meeting on January 13, 2010. It will end, officially, on April 30, 2010.
How do I track my progress for each of the 23 Things?Each staff member that chooses to participate in this program will be required to keep a blog to track their progress and will also need to register each item completed in the Tracking Log found on our HEB23 Moodle Site.
Why 23 things instead of having participants do 43 things like the website?Given the timeframe of the program (10 weeks), the number of "things" was reduced so that staff already burdened with busy work schedules wouldn't feel overwhelmed by having too many discovery exercises to complete in a week. Also, it takes a lot of effort to create and develop 23 separate exercises and podcasts. Given this, I also needed it to be manageable for myself - KE
Will there be any training classes offered to show staff how to do this? No, this is a self-directed learning program. If you feel you need assistance with an item, you are encouraged to be resourceful and to find a co-worker or another staff member who can help. Reading other staff member's blogs can help, too.
Can I work ahead through the list of items on my own?Yes, of course. You are encouraged to self-direct your discovery process, especially by working ahead on your own!! However, if you do work ahead on some items, be sure to check back on the exercise details for each item once they are posted so you can be sure to recieve full credit for its completion.
What if I need help - who can I call?Since this program is self-directed and is being completed by many staff members throughout the system simultaneously, you are encouraged to work with colleagues along your discovery journey.
I would like to earn the MP3 player but don't feel comfortable with my co-workers reading my blog, can I participate anonymously?Yes & No. Since you control all the information that you share on your blog, you can choose to use a screen name to identify yourself to keep yourself anonymous. However, in order to recieve the MP3 player and qualify for the kindle/nook drawing, you will need to identify yourself on the Web 2.0 Log.
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