This is an opportunity for you to comment on our shared Learn How to Learn Online session that we conducted today, January 28th. Below is the question to answer on this blog. If you want to earn CEUs, follow the instructions in the CEU form attached to the email I will send out immediately after we've completed this course.
Here is the question to answer:
“Compare the expectation you expressed at the beginning of the LHTLO session to how you now feel about this method of learning. Give examples of how you think this online learning platform can benefit MCPL.”
Using a Blog is just one of the ways we can work together to share ideas as we proceed through this fiscal year and learn about many of the e-Learning opportunities that MCPL could utilize for its staff.
If its not posted already, we will soon post everyone's first expectations for e-Learning.
Thanks for a wonderful experience during our LHTLO. - Kate and Barbara Mc.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Before attending the online training, I was very curious about how it all worked. How would everyone communicate, without everyone talking at the same time etc. I love new technology, so I was very excited to be a part of this mtg.
ReplyDeleteAfter the initial training, it was very easy to use and follow along. I definately think this is the path to future meetings! Fran Kaplan
I expected to learn the features of the synchronous learning environment quickly and gain some mastery of the tools. I found the experience to be a little trickier than I expected because I felt somewhat pressured being in a group. I tend to be a solitary learner and like to take my time to explore and absorb. I found myself distracted by glitches in the software and equipment, (especially since my microphone mysteriously ceased working), and this interfered with being able to keep up with all that was happening with the other participants. I do feel that I have the basic lay of the land, however, and as I become more adept in using the tools, I will enjoy this form of learning. I still feel very positive.
ReplyDeleteThe online learning platform can benefit MCPL in many ways:
• Staff doesn’t have to waste time traveling to meetings so less time is taken away from public service and other duties.
• Visual materials can be seen by all involved in the meeting without having to make photocopies or hand out lots of paper.
• Staff can participate in multiple ways, which accommodates different learning needs and communication styles.
• Transcripts can be recorded easily for later scrutiny.
• The format is adaptable to both instruction and meetings.
• Nobody has to get dressed up in fancy go-to-meeting clothes. *grin*
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAdmittedly, I didn't have very specific expectations at the outset of this training. I've used several online learning platforms (Moodle, BlackBoard, Opal Online); Horizon Wimba wasn't completely unfamiliar.
ReplyDeleteI certainly feel that this type of training - and Horizon Wimba in particular - is a do-able approach for MCPL. There are several benefits:
1. Encourages all staff to become comfortable with technology. We have Techno-Phobes working at both service desks; offering online training will (hopefully) ameliorate the issue and "bring home" the fact that Library Science and Service must accomodate the community (our patrons!) "where they're at" -- online. Does this eliminate the "personal touch"? No - but familiarity with technology won't make us (staff and the "library image") appear out of touch with Progress. We're not just old fuddy-duddies sitting/standing behind a desk.
2. Encourages a more "equal" training for both Circ and Info Staff. I'm very interested to see this available to EVERYONE, as we're ALL professionals in MCPL.
3. Time efficiency. Staff are spending time driving from here to there; time actually AT the meeting is shortened. Of course, the flip-side is a potential increase in distractions during the online training/meeting; however, this shouldn't be an issue for non-managerial staff......or managers who have back-up. :-)
I look forward to experiencing more! :-)
I was expecting to see a tool that would provide a more convenient access to training for staff.
ReplyDeleteI believe that this software will be more convenient for those of us who don't own cars, do own cars but don't want to put mileage on them and/or work in short staffed library
Thank you for all of your wonderful and thoughtful insites and comments about how we can use this tool at MCPL. As we continue using this platform for our meetings, there are additional features (such as breakout rooms) that we can use for our meetings. And we can refine our skills using the tools that we've explored so far.
ReplyDeleteI am a techno-phobe so I was nervous about our session. I understand the need to keep up with our rapidly changing world so I wanted to try this. I feel more confident now.
ReplyDeleteI expect this method to save commuting time eventually. While we are learning we are using that time to become familiar with the method. As we saw, equipment failures and branch problems do occur, but our class could procede anyway and problems can be handled by a participant who can then return to the group. I think that is a big advantage.