This blog has been set-up as part of SAPL's Learning 2.0 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 SAPL staff
• provide staff with new tools to support SAPL's mission: “Expanding minds, Empowering individuals and Enriching our community”
• provide staff with encouragement and opportunity to nourish an environment of lifelong learning
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is 2.0?
"2.0" is the combination of people and knowledge - the idea that the 'things you do' increases with the more people you collaborate with.
Web 2.0 is the collection of websites and applications that allow users to alter, create, or comment upon the content therein. Wikipedia is a great example of a successful 2.0 technology.
Learning 2.0 is the same idea put into application in a learning environment. During 23 Things, much of SAPL's staff will be learning together, creating blogs, commenting on lessons and on each other's blogs. Through the process of this collaborative learning, the users will teach each other just as much (if not more) than the lessons impart. When you find a cool application of a technology, write it in the comment of the lesson, put it on your blog, and share it!
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 use their lifelong learning skills through exploration and PLAY. Staff are encouraged to work together and share with each other their discoveries, techniques, and how-tos both in person and through their blogs.
Is this program open to all SAPL staff or just some?
This program is open to ALL SAPL staff regardless of position and status (full and part time). If you are not a member of the SAPL staff, you are still welcome to follow along! We'll even post a link to your blog on our participants page so you feel part of the group.
How long do I have to complete the program?
The program kicks off on September 26, 2008 as part of SAPL's Staff Development Day and the 23rd lesson will be revealed on December 3, 2008. All staff that complete all 23 Things by Friday December 12, 2008*** (at 11:59 pm) will qualify for a special prize drawing on Monday December 14th.
How do I track my progress for each of the 23 Things?
Each staff member that chooses to participate in this program will learn how to set up a blog. They can choose for the blog to be anonymous, but in order to qualify for the prize drawing, they need to send their name and blog address to one of the 23 Things Staff.
If I'm not a SAPL staff member, can I still participate?
Please DO!! We think it's a great way to encourage lifelong learning in yourself and your staff. Unfortunately only SAPL staff will be eligible for the drawing, but please follow along. Even send us your blog address when it comes time, and we'll link to it on our "People" page.
Will there be any training classes offered to show staff how to do this?
This is a totally 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.
I've seen the list of 23 Things on the website, but how do I know what to do with them?
Each week, two or three posts will be added to the actual learning site (via links on the list and posts in the blog) with details about the discovery exercises for that week. The reason for this staggered approach is to allow participants the ability to focus each week on a different area without feeling overwhelmed.
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. To find a list of staff participating see the people page.
I would like to be eligible to win a prize, but I 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 fake or anonymous screen name and blog address to identify yourself to keep yourself anonymous. However, in order to qualify for the prize drawing, you will need to identify your real name in a private email to the 23 Things Staff.
Once I complete all 23 things, how do I qualify for the prize?
If you complete ALL 23 things by December 12,*** the 23 Things Staff will put your name in the drawing the next Monday. If you complete the 23 Things list after that date, you get the reward of new knowledge!!
Alright already - I get it! How do I get started?!
Click the "23 Things - Start here" link above.
Don't find your question answered here? Then enter it is as comment below.
Info & Program Notes:
The Learning 2.0 Project is being adapted for SAPL by your 23 Things Staff: Sandra Griffin, Rolf Laun, Dianna Morganti, and Adam Spana.
This program and its content was originally written and implemented by the Public Library of Charlotte-Mecklenburg County by Helene Blowers. We'd like to extend our thanks to them for the use of their content. You can see the original program here: http://plcmcl2-about.blogspot.com/
• The Learning 2.0 program was designed by Helene Blowers, PLCMC Technology Director, with the support and assistance 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, Podbean, YouTube, PBWiki & Bloglines.
