Final Week
Since there are quite a few things to cover in this last post I think I might just hit them one by one rather than trying to give an all encompassing answer.
1. How has your view of social software changed since starting the course?
Well, even though I thought I was quite versed in social software before this class I sure learned a lot of new stuff through it. I think the thing that has stayed with me the most has been the ease and variety of uses for RSS. I have used it sporatically throughout the last few years but was always of the opinion that it was overhyped. However getting the chance to play in class has allowed me to see it as a maniputable tool that can be put to more uses than I previously imagined.
2. What technology did you find most interesting for your personal use? What technology did you think would be most useful professionally?
I think blogs are still the most interesting for personal expression and I will probably blog again soon. However, I think wikis, rss, mashups, and screencasts are great for use in the library. Mashups are probably the future on databases. It will probably allow a lowering of the entry barrier to complex information. For instance I think a well done mash up of demographic and map data is the killer app for business research.
3. What surprised you during the course?
Ummm, that there was a course on this subject. I think it spoke well of our school that Meredith was approached to teach based on her work in what is still considered a novel area.
4. What suggestions do you have for improving the learning activities (exercises, assignments, blog posts, readings, examples, etc.)?
I am a big fan of dialectic learning and any way to create more direct interaction between the prof and between the students is a good thing. Perhaps more regularly scheduled chat sessions would be one way to accomplish this.
5. How did your experience using Drupal differ from your experience in Blackboard classes (or classes using other traditional course management systems)?
I liked Drupal a lot. It was very easy to use and really encouraged the blog format which would be impossible on Blackboard.
6. Looking back, how would you sum up your experience?
It was great! I would and have already reccomended this class to anyone technologically inclined within the program. It was offered last semeseter but focused on the programming aspect, which is way too hardcore for me.
Great to meet you all : )
