The Modules

Module 1: Communication

Web 2.0 includes many new ways to communicate that can be efficient and fun. We all have become used to email but it is a rather static form of communication. The sender has to have access to his account, send out a message and then wait for the receiver or receivers to access their email and respond. With the various new tools that are available, we can instantly respond via chat or Twitter or easily post a blog comment for all to see not just those included in an email address. And we can use these tools with our computer, someone else’s computer and even our phones. Libraries are beginning to use these various tools to reach out to the public and market their programs and services.

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Module 2: Collaboration

Computers are now as common as books in libraries. Still, it can be difficult for both patrons and librarians away from home or business to access works-in-progress that require expensive office software applications. And working on a group project can mean a glut of email attachments and confusing multiple versions of documents. Good news! The Social Internet can help here too. There are Web-based technologies that allow you not only to create documents online, but to collaborate in real time and store your work online….FREE.

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Module 3: Visual Communications

One of the most popular and exciting aspects of the Social Internet is the sharing of photographs and videos. These tools have grown over the years from the Internet being just a storage place for photos and videos to full blown online communities. Many libraries use these tools to promote programs, give virtual tours and record their history.

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Module 4: Personal Learning Environments

The world is changing at breakneck speed, and our profession is evolving just as rapidly. We (and our users) have access to more information than ever before, and more ways of finding and interacting with that information. The tools discussed here at Colorado Libraries 2.0 are a great start in mastering some of the technology you need to remain relevant, organized, and engaged. However, you can take your learning one step further through the development of a Personal Learning Environment (PLE).

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Module 5: Productivity Tools

Each day new tools are released on the internet to address all kinds of needs. If (or more accurately when) you think ‘ there has to be an easier way,’ check online for assistance; often, there’s a free solution available. In the Productivity Tools module of this site several popular groups of productivity tools are presented. Check it out and save yourself some headaches and time!

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Module 6: Social Networking

Social networking is a phenomena defined by linking people to each other in some way. While traditionally social networks were made up of people who might gather face-to-face, today’s social networks are predominately online. Social networking websites allow people to connect online with friends, family or colleagues to share opinions, insights, experiences and perspectives, as well as meet people with similar interests or hobbies.

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Module 7: Books and Reading

With the advent of social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace it will come as no surprise that topic specific variations have sprung up all over the web. Many of these sites are centered around books and serve as an online gathering place for readers. While each site has its own distinct personality, they all offer readers the option to list and catalog their books and to make connections with other readers and authors.

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Capstone Project – Your PLE

Pull together much of what you’ve learned in the modules by incorporating various web 2.0 tools into your own Personal Learning Environment.