The Semantic Web

Phew! This takes web searches to a new high. I looked at the site that Lea suggested and got flummoxed. It would be good if computers could understand the information they give us, but at some time we must think for ourselves and make the jumps to new ideas. Also the standards for data entry that will allow cross referencing of information raise difficulties as with the issue of human error. Reminds me of genealogical searches where misreading of names makes life difficult but interesting, and make me feel that my brain is stimulated to make its own connections.

Voyager

I tried this site and like the interactive nature of it. But I have real problems with RSS feed readers, in that I am not interested in news sites. I prefer other media forms for my news. This is a task that I would need personal help with to master properly. I understand the theory but cannot apply it for my needs.

KARTOO

This site is like a mind map and has possibilities, but difficult to navigate. The thought of doing genealogical searches in images opens new pathways.

VuFind

I found this site quite interesting, not the VuFind home site, but the National Library Catalogue. The search options are wider, and searching is easy. A possible alternative to our current OPAC software.

Linkedin

Linkedin is an effective way to contact others in the same industry, and network for information re jobs and processes. It seems reasonable easy to read.
Funny how things work! I went to a meeting of past work colleagues organising a school reunion, and discussing the difficulty of having a communication system of those interested that did not breach privacy laws affecting school internet sites. It was suggested to use Linkedin as a base for groups of ex students and staff.

Finished!!!!

Ya I have finished the tasks and posted my comments, and have enjoyed the process in general but learning is superficial and needs reinforcement!

Avatars and second life!

Well I have looked at Ohio University's island and Murdoch University's campus, and can see the potential with students in this and future generations. However, for me the second life avatar can be so far from the truth! I still like person to person learning and learn most efficiently this way. But world wide conferences are possible and graphic-assisted learning and display of art and products. I have enough trouble running this life, let alone a second life!

Podcasts

I never realized that I was watching podcasts when I looked up The New Inventors or Dancing with the Stars! These thing interest me. And such services are so valuable for students watching missed lectures or learning videos via the net.

Youtube

I have just searched Youtube for videos on Australian libraries and had a bit of success. I enjoyed a video on a conference at Thomastown Library last March on just this type of PD-getting used to wikis and the future of libraries. I really enjoyed a Powerpoint on a protest against cuts to Public Library funding in NSW. What we would lose if Public Libraries cut back on services, especially to the young and refugees!
I watched a video on a Canadian Uni. Library, similar situation to Swinburne, and a programme for giving work experience to refugees in Cambden Library, London UK!
Youtube is a bit difficult to search, with so much offering, and much not of interest to me.