A New Beginning

The Library 2.0 (Learning 2.0) Project has provided the opportunity for some of the best training I have ever experienced. This multi-media and multi-faceted program, centering around blogging, produced tangible results for participants. I enjoyed that it was structured, yet allowed for self-direction and self-management.
At the outset of this journey, I completed a learning contract outlining my goals, as well as providing a list of required toolbox items and potential obstacles. My four main goals -- create a blog, learn more about podcasts, create a flickr account and learn more about YouTube -- have been achieved. Like most new learning tasks, the curriculum was enlightening, informative, interesting, dazzling, frustrating and above all, rewarding.
I have to admit that I found all of the "discoveries" worthwhile and beneficial. From the beginning step of identifying goals, to the strengthening of learning habits (all 7 1/2 of them), this journey allowed us to learn and use new written, auditory, visual and digital technologies. I enjoyed connecting and sharing with others, especially all of my library and literacy colleagues, while we together investigated new web sites, played and had fun.
I like "tagging" with others, generating web documents through on-line applications and tuning in to YouTube. (Rather than watching television in the future, we will be watching YouTube on our computers, I predict.) YouTube is jumping into the mainstream media milieu with giants like CNN by hosting events such as the Democratic leaderhip debate last month between Obama and Clinton. I am looking forward to listening to podcasts and eaudiobooks on my new USB MP 3 player.
I will carry this knowledge forward in both my work and non-work roles. I believe what we have learned together will definitely help with streamlining learning plans, demonstrations and promoting learner creativity through blogging. Administratively, we can work together on specific projects such as policies and procedures and program evaluation.
I have taken my new knowledge to help a hockey blog for the team I am coaching this season in Collingwood. If you would like, you may visit it at http://www.collingwoodblackhawks.blogspot.com/. It is a work in progress.

Finally, I believe that the format, content and timelines involved in this project were just right. Sufficient time was available once assignments were completed for us to pursue our interests individually.
The web is changing everything around us. We can either embrace it, or be left behind. There is a reason why some believe the internet (and the computer) is the most revolutionary discovery since the dawn of fire. I can't take credit for that declaration because I read it at some point.
Thank you to the staff, board and fellow staff members of the Owen Sound North Grey Union Public Library (and Learning Centres) for helping to make this a memorable time in my life.