My Final Reflection of Web 2.0

Our group decided to create a wiki for our final project called KIdsPICK Awards. I have personally and professionally benefited from the knowledge I gained taking the Library 2.0 class taught by Prof. Karen Kliegman.

The four topics of my final reflection include:

Technology Effectiveness- Our group's wiki includes specific ways for 5th graders to enhance their learning styles and foster their love of books. They are able to choose from a variety of Web 2.0 tools to be creative and share their individual reviews of their favorite books, with the support of their librarian. They can use video booktalks, vodcasts, and podcasts to create posters and share in blogging. They are able to make their votes count by using PollDaddy surveys for all viewers to see and join in the event. I feel the technology we have chosen enables students to gain valuable ways to become better learners as they learn to select, evaluate and share information in a creative, positive and constructive manner. Our group also has the flexibility to change and use the wiki for other grades and collaborate with other schools.

Concepts and ideas of Library 2.0 and participatory library service- In our Web 2.0 class readings we have addressed the importance of sharing information and also giving students the ability to be creative while making the right choices in enhancing their knowledge. Web 2.0 allows students to collaborate in class discussions within their schools or across the United States and abroad. Class assignments can be designed to tailor specific needs, types and areas of study. Whether it be in content areas, specific topics or broad knowledge based learning, the utilization of Web 2.0 tools are key to teaching students effective ways to expand their learning in many areas in the 21st Century and beyond.

Technology Issues- When students use Web 2.0 tools, it is of critical importance that we teach them to keep personal information out. For example, using only your first name can prevent people with bad intentions from tracking students. Students need to be taught that there are people who do not have good intentions, and that their personal profiles and information should only be shared with close friends and family. When students choose less personal ways to use Web 2.0, they greatly reduce their chance to fall as victims.

Collaboration Issues- Using skpe and chats are a great way for multiple people to converse and collaborate their efforts more effectively when contributing to a project. However, if there are technical difficulties it can be frustrating. Sometimes, it is good to be able to switch gears and be adaptive to technological difficulties. In our case, our group was excited, helped one another and fostered optimum success to be creative and get the job done. We all felt a sense of dedication to each other and our collaboration efforts were seamless in all our responsibilities. We were able to arrange and organize the work effectively while promoting practical usage and applications to our wiki. Our group feels very fortunate to have been able to work together in gathering ideas and making things happen! What could be a difficult task for others, has been a great pleasure for us. We plan to keep in touch, and hopefully continue to collaborate professionally in the libraries and personally to keep up with trends for libraries as well.

My special thanks to Ray and Carol for working with me and creating a great Web 2.0 environment!

Many thanks to Prof. Karen Kliegman, who has taught me many valuable Web 2.0 tools to be creative and enhance a productive learning environment in teaching students and collaborating with other educators!