Thing #11.5

1. What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey?
I have to say my favorite discovery was the screencasts. I think it is an incredible tool to use to show how to use difference resources in the library. Unfortunately, I was unable to transfer the screencast I created to my blog. I feel like I would benefit from more training on this resource.

2. How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals?
This program has made me feel more confident using the web 2.0 tools that are so important to 21st education.

3. Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you?
I can honestly say that I was surprised by all of the things we had to learn and apply. I was surprised that we didn't have to create a facebook page or twitter though, but imagine that will happen in the future.

4. What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept?
I could use some more help in using some of the tools especially the screencasts and virtual world. I felt like those were two things where we could use some real hands-on training by other users who are more familiar with these tools.

Thing #11 - Digital Citizenship

First of all, I'd emphasize the importance of not sharing personal information on the internet in order to practice internet safety.

Second, I will tell them to make sure that the sources they access online for research are accurate and current by teaching them how to evaluate websites.

Third, I would teach them the importance of internet etiquette.

Fourth, I would teach them the importance of digital security. In other words, students need to know that their computers need to be protected from viruses and their files need to be backed up and saved.

Fifth, I would teach them the importance of digital law. They need to know that information on the web is copyrighted and cannot be copied. They also need to know that it is illegal to hack other user's nformation or download videos and music without permission or payment.

Nine Themes of Digital Citizenship- Copyright 2007-2009. Mike Ribble.

#10 Virtual Worlds

Second Life and other online virtual sites can be used by students to develop global literacy skills. Virtual worlds also offer students a chance to immerse themselves in a 3-D environment much like the gaming worlds that many of them are already familiar with. It offers them the chance to build their own environment or work in a team in order to meet teacher or librarian guidelines. I know that other librarians in the district use it to help their students take a virtual tour of sites around the world with a virtual tour guide. I, however, think that elementary students need to be guided by and adult when visiting these sites.