This wiki on new tools for school librarians was put together by Joyce Valenza, a school library media specialist in Pennsylvania and author of the NeverEndingSearch blog. The number of great resources in this one wiki is amazing, almost to the point that it is overwhelming. Examples of some of the resources that can be found here include explanations and/or links related to QR codes, Twitter, iphone apps, digital storytelling, screen capture, Skype and many more. If you are ever want to experiment with some new technology, this is definitely a great place to start.
In terms of our readings for this week, this wiki is a good fit because it reflects how the role of the school librarian has changed in terms of technology. In the past, the school librarian might have been called on to fix technology problems. Today, while some fixing still does occur, the school librarian's main technology focus is how to use technology to improve library services and classroom instruction.
Lastly, one of my favorite pages within this wiki is the page titled, "You Know You're a 21st Century Librarian If...". Basically, Valenza has created a manifesto for current and future librarians that elaborates just what a 21st century school librarian should look like and it seems to reinforce most of what we read this past week. I know this is the kind of librarian I want to be and when potential employers ask about my philosophy of teaching I will definitely be pointing them to this website.
Mari,
ReplyDeleteI love "You know you're a 21st librarian if," it's one of my favourites.