Its the Final Countdown ...

My views on the entire training course...

I have really enjoyed doing the training (actually maybe enjoy isnt the right word, but I am glad I have done it). Learning new things is always important, even if you dont think it applies to you individually. Working in a library however, it does apply to everyone doing the course. I was already familiar with many things such as facebook, twitter and libraything but it has been good to explore other web based functions I did not know about.

And to think we have really only just touched the very crumbs of the cake ... there is so much more to learn. At least it doesnt seem so overwhelming now and I know where to go to find more information.  So whilst I probably wont continue to exist in the blogging world, it has been very interesting to learn about and understand.

Week 10 Geocaching

I had never heard of geocaching until last week. What an interesting idea. I dont think I would ever be bothered to do it myself but I think it might be a cool family adventure or a fun way to spend a few hours. In regards to using it in the library, I think I might need to research it more to realise how it might apply. The only thing I get confused about is, if you have clues leading to a book, and you only have a couple of copies of that book, isnt that a little disappointing to those who want to find it but came last?

I think it would be cool to do a competition in the library though that gets people to find clues in different areas. This can work to get people exploring areas they dont normally use. I think that would be fun.

Week 9 Podcasts

Postcasting has been really interesting to learn about. I am overwhelmed by how esay is is to do alot of the things web2 training that I though you would need a degree to understand. I dont really listen to blogs though, but I think I might start listening to some radio programs in my free time. My bf listens to Carl Pilkingtons and Ricky Gervais' radio show through podcast and then we listen to it on the cd player in the car. Its great and hilarious! There is now an animated version which I guess is a vodcast. (Its great learning all these new terms!)

Week 8 YouTube and videos

YouTube is amazing. There is no longer an excuse for not doing something cause you dont know how... you can always learn how on YouTube. From making sushi to applying makeup to hacking a vending machine! I have also found some great documentaries through youtube such as the one I put up on my blog. Being able to easily share videos on blogs and facebook is such a great way to share interesting articles and funny clips. Im not one to spend hours searching youtube clips but if im interested in something in particular or somebody recommends something, I find it to be very entertaining.

you tube clip

This documentary series is so inspiring (made a tear roll down my cheek). Check it out. There are 6 episodes.

Twitter

Both trival and powerful at the same time. A bit of an oxymoron, but decribes Twitter perfectly.
I feel a little self important publishing what Im doing all the time, does anyone really care... is twitter just a total bordom buster or generation ys attempt to be heard an feel important? Yes Im having a bit of a rant, but that seems to be what social media is all about? I would prefer a diary so I can at least express myself privately. On the other hand, a great way to share important news and interesting stories fast. Maybe after I get the hang of it a bit more I will like it more. At the moment, I HATE twitter.

Week 7 Facebook

And we come to the mother of them all... Facebook!
Imagine a world without it... its only been around for the last 5 years or so but where would we be without it now!
I like facebook for the simple reason that you can keep in touch easily with friends and family that may live away. I am a little over it though, and I wonder how many others will b over it soon too. Mayb in 10 years the numbers will have dropped?
It is worrying how school kids use it though. They arent aware (or dont see the threat) in the dangers related with social media including cyberstalking, cyberbullying, fraud, peer pressure, media pressure etc. Some of the littlies are just too young.
So all in all, Facebook has both pros and cons but one thing is for sure, it has been one of the biggest influences on social media and culture EVER!