LIBR 246-12: Web 2.0 and Social Networking Tools (Fall 2008)

The biggest change to my view of social software over the course of the semester is that I can now envision a number of useful applications for library environments.  Prior to the class, I had thought some of the social software tools were interesting, but I didn’t necessarily see how they helped librarians serve their communities.
 
I found podcasting and screencasting the most interesting.  I had never experimented with these tools.  I think that both these social software applications are very useful professionally.  I intend to practice screencasting during the semester break.  I would like to achieve some professional-level database tutorials.
 
I was surprised at how simple it was to get comfortable with most of the social software tools we used.  I have to admit that prior to this semester, I had avoided a few because I thought they would be far more difficult to use.
 
As a suggestion, I would have liked to explore Second Life.  I know that some of the other sections took a look at it.  SJSU seems to be offering a lot of content in this environment. 
 
I didn’t mind Drupal.  I don’t really have a preference between Drupal and Blackboard.  I did have a little trouble getting the format I wanted in Drupal.  I used the filtered HTML option to post because the full HTML option didn’t look right.  I didn’t think this was a big deal.  I use a MAC and thought that might be the cause.
 
I had a really positive experience in this class.  I buy no means feel like a social software expert, but I do feel comfortable using the tools that we explored.  I also feel like I will be less apprehensive learning new social software tools.  These were my two goals coming into the class, so I am satisfied and grateful.