Final Reflections
Wow, I can't believe it's really over. This is not only my last class of the semester, but also my last class in the SLIS program. I've spent this semester compiling my e-portfolio, and a lot of time reflecting on what I've learned over the last two years. It's hard to believe it's really over!
How has your view of social software changed since starting the course?
I really didn't know about a lot of the things that were out there. I had heard of social bookmarking and mashups, but I didn't know how they could be used productively in a library. I think I've learned ways to use tools that are relevant and that our patrons would really benefit from. And I learned how to do a screencast, which was so much fun!
What technology did you find most interesting for your personal use? What technology did you think would be most useful professionally?
Personally, I like the RSS feeds and aggregator. I still read all of mine everyday; in fact, I look forward to it and am always adding more. Professionally, for a public library like the one I work in, I think screencasts could be used now very effectively, and really fill a need that exists. I'm working with the technology director to start recording his computer classes to put up online. I think the patrons will really enjoy that, since his computer classes are always full!
What surprised you during the course?
Like Hector, I too was surprised there even was a course offered on social software! I was also pleasantly surprised that I was able to figure out all these new tools. I don't consider myself terribly savvy technology wise, and I'm always eager to learn more about it. Everything we looked at this semester was user friendly. So if I could figure them out, pretty much anyone could.
What suggestions do you have for improving the learning activities?
That's a tough one, because I really did like the way the class was set up and thought all the activities were relevant. The only thing I would suggest is giving more time to post a response to other's blog posts. Sometimes people wouldn't post until late on Tuesday night, long after I'd logged off, so I wouldn't be able to comment on their posts until the next day. I would still comment, if I felt I had something relevant to add.
How did your experience using Drupal differ from your experience in Blackboard classes?
I liked Drupal. I thought it was more user friendly and intuitive than Blackboard, and had a nicer appearance. I never had any real problems with Blackboard, though.
Looking back, how would you sum up your experience?
I think this was a very practical class. I learned a lot of hands on types of things that I can use in my library. I also learned how to research different software with different user needs in mind. I learned a lot from Prof. Farkas as well as all my classmates. I hear about other people in the program who have had bad experiences with other classes, and realize how fortunate I was. Every class I took I enjoyed. I had great professors and great classmates. I wish everyone could have the luck that I had.
Best of luck to everyone in finishing up the program and starting in on your careers! It's been wonderful learning with all of you.
