These are the reasons I am a rubbish cpd23-er:
- I have two jobs and consequently work 6 days a week.
- I am learning to drive.
- I am training for a hiking marathon.
- I have taken up running.
And so that is how I now find myself, on the 13th December, three days away from the end of term, wondering what on Earth happened to the last few months. So, it's winter now? Where did that go? Where is my social life? Where is my mind?
And I think I might not be able to sustain this cpd23 stuff, although I will try.
I am also considering putting my manic reading (as an Assistant School Librarian, I find myself reading stuff like The Hunger Games and Patrick Ness and Malorie Blackman and Sophie McKenzie and books about zombies) to good use by writing a few reviews. Watch this space.
Tuesday 13 December 2011
Sunday 4 September 2011
Why I don't comment on things (not my fault)
Blogspot won't let me comment on anything, even my own blog. So I've tried to comment on some cpd23 blogs, but I can't. This upsets me. I want to let you know I've been reading! I have been.
Also, if anyone knows how to fix this problem, I'd be massively grateful of any help.
Also, if anyone knows how to fix this problem, I'd be massively grateful of any help.
Thing 13: Google Docs, Wiki & Dropbox
I used both Google Docs and Dropbox while studying for my MA and found them both incredibly useful for group work. For one piece of work, which was a reflective log, Dropbox was especially useful. Myself and the rest of my group would meet up every couple of weeks and record our conversations, which we then went on to use as part of the final piece of work. We shared the audio files through Dropbox, and also shared articles. For another piece of written group work, Google Docs was used - this was much easier than emailing.
I have now got my first professional post in a school (I start tomorrow, eek!) and so I am keeping my eyes open for any ideas I can use. The idea of collaboration and sharing seems especially appropriate for education. I know the school I am working for has their own remote file sharing system, so I am unsure whether Dropbox would really be necessary, but the principles certainly seem the same: pupils can access work from home and IT don't have to worry about the security risks posed by USB sticks. It also means that a lot of work can be submitted electronically - so instead of handing in a piece of paper, students can simply drag & drop documents into teachers' files. This is something I find really interesting, and so very different to what happened when I was at school! That was less than 10 years ago, so things are changing very quickly. I certainly see the potential of such a system. It makes sense, if children are using technology, to utilise that for educational purposes, save teachers time, and to save money on resources such as paper.
I suppose the challenges relate to the fact that not all children are as familiar with technology as each other, and induction sessions would be necessary to ensure everyone understood what to do. Parents may find this especially challenging.
In terms of Google Docs, this would be useful for any group work carried out in the classroom. The remote file-sharing system would be useful, but the problem of multiple copies, presumably, would be an issue. I will certainly consider this if the need ever came up.
I'm a little dubious about wikis. I've read a lot about how they're often neglected and poorly used. I should probably read more positive articles! If anyone has any, feel free to let me know :) It would be foolish to write wikis off completely. It would certainly be an interesting exercise in collaboration to start one up, even if the outcome was negative; this could open up debate into the limitations of computer-mediated collaboration.
I have now got my first professional post in a school (I start tomorrow, eek!) and so I am keeping my eyes open for any ideas I can use. The idea of collaboration and sharing seems especially appropriate for education. I know the school I am working for has their own remote file sharing system, so I am unsure whether Dropbox would really be necessary, but the principles certainly seem the same: pupils can access work from home and IT don't have to worry about the security risks posed by USB sticks. It also means that a lot of work can be submitted electronically - so instead of handing in a piece of paper, students can simply drag & drop documents into teachers' files. This is something I find really interesting, and so very different to what happened when I was at school! That was less than 10 years ago, so things are changing very quickly. I certainly see the potential of such a system. It makes sense, if children are using technology, to utilise that for educational purposes, save teachers time, and to save money on resources such as paper.
I suppose the challenges relate to the fact that not all children are as familiar with technology as each other, and induction sessions would be necessary to ensure everyone understood what to do. Parents may find this especially challenging.
In terms of Google Docs, this would be useful for any group work carried out in the classroom. The remote file-sharing system would be useful, but the problem of multiple copies, presumably, would be an issue. I will certainly consider this if the need ever came up.
I'm a little dubious about wikis. I've read a lot about how they're often neglected and poorly used. I should probably read more positive articles! If anyone has any, feel free to let me know :) It would be foolish to write wikis off completely. It would certainly be an interesting exercise in collaboration to start one up, even if the outcome was negative; this could open up debate into the limitations of computer-mediated collaboration.
Tuesday 30 August 2011
Thing 12: Putting the Social into Social Media
are there any other advantages to social networking in the context of professional development than those already outlined above?
I think social networking can probably do most of the things that face-to-face networking can do, albeit to a lesser extent. I see it as very embedded in the wider social context generally, but also very embedded into the way I organise both my social and professional lives; I tend to make all my arrangements through a combination of social networks, text messages and phone calls. These things do not feel separate to me.
One thing that I think is incredibly useful about social networking in the context of professional development is the opportunities it provides for learning, both from other individuals and from learning resources recommended by others; this is most related to collaborative working space, but I think it's connected to all the points raised in the original post. Social networking fosters very directed discussion and anyone can contribute. I think this is something that is more difficult to do face-to-face.
can you think of any disadvantages?
It's difficult to form a whole opinion of someone from an online profile. Some things don't come across online - body language, tone of voice; this, in many ways, makes it a more difficult social world. Some things just need to be done in person: lectures are often more inspiring face-to-face, and being in the physical presence of others is more supportive. In a general sense, people do still want to meet others offline, and there is a reason for this. But social networks do not simply exist online, they overlap with the offline world. And as a tool to supplement this offline interaction, I think the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.
has CPD23 helped you to make contact with others that you would not have had contact with normally?
Definitely, both online and offline. I have followed a few blogs written by people I don't know. I also met quite a few new people at the meet-up in week 7 who I wouldn't otherwise have had contact with.
Incidentally, I now feel like I know the people who came to the meet-up much better than those who I follow but have not met face-to-face.
did you already use social media for your career development before starting CPD23? Will you keep using it after the programme has finished?
I did, but I am relatively new to it all! I think doing cpd23 has really shown me the power of using social media as a tool for my professional development. I have discovered new sources of information and have gained a few Twitter followers, giving me a wider view of the profession as a whole.
in your opinion does social networking really help to foster a sense of community?
This question is actually very closely related to my dissertation topic, so I could probably write an essay here! I will try not to. In short, my answer is: yes, I think it can. I don't think it always does, nor do I think the community it fosters is quite the same as "traditional" community, but it does help, definitely.
My point above about social networking being embedded in the wider social context is really important here - online social networks translate themselves to the offline world frequently. I think that social networks are great for conversing, arranging and disseminating information. But people still want to meet others face-to-face and, when they do, they feel closer to them. And then they can continue that relationship via social networking. And the social networks do help.
But really, what I am trying to say, is that there is no substitute for a good old sit down natter with a cup of tea and biscuits, is there?
Yesterday, when I started writing this blog, I started following a few people on Twitter: a couple of librarian folk & World Book Night. For the latter, I filled out my top ten books. To end with a digression, I picked:
1. The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
2. The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami
3. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
4. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
5. Ghost World by Daniel Clowes
6. The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera
7. Things the Grandchildren Should Know by Mark Oliver Everett
8. Dracula by Bram Stoker
9. Our Band could be Your Life: Scenes from the American Indie Underground 1981-1991 by Michael Azerrad
10. Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder
Monday 29 August 2011
Thing 11: Mentoring
I don't really have any experience of mentoring. Most of the library people I've met were on my course, and while everyone was at different stages of their career, we were all working towards the same qualification, learning the same things. The support on the course was amazing, but felt more like peer support, as opposed to mentoring.
The closest I ever got to having a mentor was probably when I did my work placement at Whitworth Art Gallery. The librarian there is a retired public librarian who volunteers at the Whitworth once a week. We talked a fair bit about government policy impacting libraries, the way computers are changing everything and the various issues surrounding different types of libraries. It was interesting to learn about how things go in cycles; how back in the late '70s there were threats to libraries too, challenges that were overcome. And things will get better again, then worse, then better. That's just the way it goes.
I like the idea of having a mentor, but it always seemed a somewhat mysterious process to me. I always thought it happened organically; you met someone who you got along with, who gave you advice, and the mentoring thing developed, like a friendship, but with one person knowing more stuff. This always seemed fairly difficult to me, a social puzzle I didn't understand. I didn't know you could ask for a mentor. Now it all makes sense!
I would like a mentor, I think. I am a new librarian, I am starting my first professional post a week today and I am nervous! Having someone to talk to about professional stuff would be a good thing. Also, I make a good cup of tea. This, I find, always helps with everything.
The closest I ever got to having a mentor was probably when I did my work placement at Whitworth Art Gallery. The librarian there is a retired public librarian who volunteers at the Whitworth once a week. We talked a fair bit about government policy impacting libraries, the way computers are changing everything and the various issues surrounding different types of libraries. It was interesting to learn about how things go in cycles; how back in the late '70s there were threats to libraries too, challenges that were overcome. And things will get better again, then worse, then better. That's just the way it goes.
I like the idea of having a mentor, but it always seemed a somewhat mysterious process to me. I always thought it happened organically; you met someone who you got along with, who gave you advice, and the mentoring thing developed, like a friendship, but with one person knowing more stuff. This always seemed fairly difficult to me, a social puzzle I didn't understand. I didn't know you could ask for a mentor. Now it all makes sense!
I would like a mentor, I think. I am a new librarian, I am starting my first professional post a week today and I am nervous! Having someone to talk to about professional stuff would be a good thing. Also, I make a good cup of tea. This, I find, always helps with everything.
Wednesday 17 August 2011
Thing 10: Graduate traineeships, Masters Degrees, Chartership, Accreditation
I am not sure, yet, whether to call myself a "librarian", as opposed to a "library student". I have finished the taught part of my MA, the part which comprised the PGdip; I could stop writing my dissertation now and still be qualified to apply for professional posts. So in a sense I'd be perfectly entitled to. But. But. There is a but. It feels strange calling myself a librarian. It feels new. I feel like I don't know enough yet. I feel too clueless.
Perhaps I will feel different in six months, a year, two years, when I have worked in a professional post, learned more things, really seen where I can take this. I am optimistic. I really want to become a real librarian!
Why did I want to become a librarian in the first place? I won't say I had epiphany, because it wasn't as grand as that. I finished my undergraduate course in 2007 and spent three years drifting around temp jobs trying to figure things out. I was unemployed for six months, which was awful. My Sociology degree couldn't help me then, and when it could help me, it could only get me Reception and entry-level admin jobs. Which was fine for a clueless 23 year-old, but not really what I wanted to do in the long-term.
I think I was having something of an existential crisis.
I spoke to people who know lots more about life by virtue of having lived it for longer than I, and they all told me not to wait for an epiphany: just pick something you're interested in and do your best. So I flirted with a few ideas. Nursing. Too squeamish. Occupational Therapy. Realised I wasn't even sure what it was. Teaching. Just not sure. Research. I actually worked in research for a bit as a temp and, for some reason, didn't apply for the permanent role that came up. And there weren't many other jobs I was qualified for.
I tried to think of the things that linked together my temp jobs, and realised I'd done a lot of archiving. And I knew I wanted at least two things out of any job: 1) That I was, in some way, helping people, 2) That I'd be playing to my strengths, but that there would be room to challenge myself. I also knew I had always loved libraries, and information, and words, and I knew I was really, really interested education, and I truly believed (and still do) that knowledge is empowering. I applied for the MA and got in. I found something I was interested in.
I moved to Manchester for the MA at MMU, which wasn't too big a change as I'm from Stockport originally and have quite a few friends here. I really enjoyed the MA, it felt good to be a student again, and everyone on the course was really nice. It's a hectic course, but because you're so busy all the time, by the time you realise you're stressed, it's Easter.
I'm currently in the midst of my dissertation, which is due in on the 30th September. 18, 000 words and a vast expanse of time seems scary, but breaking it into sections helps a lot.
I am now really excited about getting out and using all that I've learned, although slightly apprehensive about finding a job. I am keen to stay in Manchester as I've ended up moving house for the last 7 years in a row, and I'd really like to settle in one place! Plus I love Manchester and fear London. I will move if I can't find anything, but for now I'm going to carry on filling in job applications for every single job I can find in the NW area. Ideally, I'd love to work in education, as it's something I'd say I'm passionate about, and I did an Online Learning module on the MA and found it really interesting. I'd also really like to look into chartership eventually. But we'll see.
Perhaps I will feel different in six months, a year, two years, when I have worked in a professional post, learned more things, really seen where I can take this. I am optimistic. I really want to become a real librarian!
Why did I want to become a librarian in the first place? I won't say I had epiphany, because it wasn't as grand as that. I finished my undergraduate course in 2007 and spent three years drifting around temp jobs trying to figure things out. I was unemployed for six months, which was awful. My Sociology degree couldn't help me then, and when it could help me, it could only get me Reception and entry-level admin jobs. Which was fine for a clueless 23 year-old, but not really what I wanted to do in the long-term.
I think I was having something of an existential crisis.
I spoke to people who know lots more about life by virtue of having lived it for longer than I, and they all told me not to wait for an epiphany: just pick something you're interested in and do your best. So I flirted with a few ideas. Nursing. Too squeamish. Occupational Therapy. Realised I wasn't even sure what it was. Teaching. Just not sure. Research. I actually worked in research for a bit as a temp and, for some reason, didn't apply for the permanent role that came up. And there weren't many other jobs I was qualified for.
I tried to think of the things that linked together my temp jobs, and realised I'd done a lot of archiving. And I knew I wanted at least two things out of any job: 1) That I was, in some way, helping people, 2) That I'd be playing to my strengths, but that there would be room to challenge myself. I also knew I had always loved libraries, and information, and words, and I knew I was really, really interested education, and I truly believed (and still do) that knowledge is empowering. I applied for the MA and got in. I found something I was interested in.
I moved to Manchester for the MA at MMU, which wasn't too big a change as I'm from Stockport originally and have quite a few friends here. I really enjoyed the MA, it felt good to be a student again, and everyone on the course was really nice. It's a hectic course, but because you're so busy all the time, by the time you realise you're stressed, it's Easter.
I'm currently in the midst of my dissertation, which is due in on the 30th September. 18, 000 words and a vast expanse of time seems scary, but breaking it into sections helps a lot.
I am now really excited about getting out and using all that I've learned, although slightly apprehensive about finding a job. I am keen to stay in Manchester as I've ended up moving house for the last 7 years in a row, and I'd really like to settle in one place! Plus I love Manchester and fear London. I will move if I can't find anything, but for now I'm going to carry on filling in job applications for every single job I can find in the NW area. Ideally, I'd love to work in education, as it's something I'd say I'm passionate about, and I did an Online Learning module on the MA and found it really interesting. I'd also really like to look into chartership eventually. But we'll see.
Monday 15 August 2011
Thing 8: Google Calendar
I must admit, I may have been putting this entry off somewhat. I have been super busy, but there was also a part of me that actually couldn't think of much to write. Perhaps I've used my writing quota elsewhere (current dissertation wordcount: 13, 123) and I've run out of brainspace to put words together. But if I don't say much about Google Calendar, that's okay, right?
I used to work as a Receptionist in Leeds and part of my job was to book meetings and various Important Events using Outlook, so I am used to that interface for such things. So using Google was odd at first, but after I got used to it I did like it, I do like it, and I'd be interested to use it when I am working in a professional post. It is useful. Well done, Google Calendar!
I used to work as a Receptionist in Leeds and part of my job was to book meetings and various Important Events using Outlook, so I am used to that interface for such things. So using Google was odd at first, but after I got used to it I did like it, I do like it, and I'd be interested to use it when I am working in a professional post. It is useful. Well done, Google Calendar!
Thursday 28 July 2011
Thing 7 - Face-to-Face networks and professional organisations
Professional Organisations
I joined CILIP at the beginning of my MA course for a few reasons, these being: our tutors recommended it, I thought it would help me meet people, I thought it would help me learn stuff and it is cheap to join when you're a student. If I'm completely honest, the last one probably sold it to me. I thought that joining as a student would give me an idea what CILIP is all about whilst not being too expensive, so that post-MA, when I was employed, I would be able to make an informed decision about whether or not to join.
I then decided to put myself forward as a CILIP Student Representative. I am not usually one to volunteer for such things, but various personal circumstances had made me realise that life is too short to worry and so I decided to put my new-found devil-may-care (ish) attitude to good use. I attended a pub quiz, got added to the email list and attended the AGM in Liverpool - all of which were useful, and I met some lovely people. But I don't think I made the most of the opportunity and I'm not 100% sure why - possibly essay deadlines, possibly because I wasn't totally sure what I was supposed to be doing, possibly because I was mostly listening and trying to learn as much as I could and felt rather overwhelmed. I am glad I did it, but I probably didn't know enough about library-world to contribute as much as I would have liked.
I regularly check CILIP's website for job vacancies and other news - both of these things are incredibly useful. It's also really useful being able to access the Update archives - I actually referenced a few articles from back issues in my essays. I imagine I will remain a member into my professional career.
Out of the other professional organisations, LISNPN seems especially relevant to my current situation and has also popped up in a few of the other tasks. I have therefore registered and will be getting involved!
Face-to-Face Networks
As part of this task, I decided to organise a meet-up in Manchester. Again, not necessarily something that comes naturally to me, but I decided that getting out of my comfort zone is probably a good idea now and again. I wouldn't describe myself as shy, but I'm fairly sure no one feels 100% confident about meeting a bunch of strangers, so I did feel apprehensive! We met at Port Street Beer house, which sells an incredibly overwhelming amount of ale. (I am the type of librarian who prefers ale to gin).
5 people came along: a trainee archivist, an academic librarian, a health library manager (who is also a part-time student on my course), an all-round library-type and soon-to-be-student on my course & a librarian at my old 6th form college! It was informal and it was interesting to meet people from a variety of library/information backgrounds. Many thanks to those who came along!
I joined CILIP at the beginning of my MA course for a few reasons, these being: our tutors recommended it, I thought it would help me meet people, I thought it would help me learn stuff and it is cheap to join when you're a student. If I'm completely honest, the last one probably sold it to me. I thought that joining as a student would give me an idea what CILIP is all about whilst not being too expensive, so that post-MA, when I was employed, I would be able to make an informed decision about whether or not to join.
I then decided to put myself forward as a CILIP Student Representative. I am not usually one to volunteer for such things, but various personal circumstances had made me realise that life is too short to worry and so I decided to put my new-found devil-may-care (ish) attitude to good use. I attended a pub quiz, got added to the email list and attended the AGM in Liverpool - all of which were useful, and I met some lovely people. But I don't think I made the most of the opportunity and I'm not 100% sure why - possibly essay deadlines, possibly because I wasn't totally sure what I was supposed to be doing, possibly because I was mostly listening and trying to learn as much as I could and felt rather overwhelmed. I am glad I did it, but I probably didn't know enough about library-world to contribute as much as I would have liked.
I regularly check CILIP's website for job vacancies and other news - both of these things are incredibly useful. It's also really useful being able to access the Update archives - I actually referenced a few articles from back issues in my essays. I imagine I will remain a member into my professional career.
Out of the other professional organisations, LISNPN seems especially relevant to my current situation and has also popped up in a few of the other tasks. I have therefore registered and will be getting involved!
Face-to-Face Networks
As part of this task, I decided to organise a meet-up in Manchester. Again, not necessarily something that comes naturally to me, but I decided that getting out of my comfort zone is probably a good idea now and again. I wouldn't describe myself as shy, but I'm fairly sure no one feels 100% confident about meeting a bunch of strangers, so I did feel apprehensive! We met at Port Street Beer house, which sells an incredibly overwhelming amount of ale. (I am the type of librarian who prefers ale to gin).
5 people came along: a trainee archivist, an academic librarian, a health library manager (who is also a part-time student on my course), an all-round library-type and soon-to-be-student on my course & a librarian at my old 6th form college! It was informal and it was interesting to meet people from a variety of library/information backgrounds. Many thanks to those who came along!
Wednesday 27 July 2011
Thing 6: Online Networks
1. Linkedin
I can't really get the hang of Linkedin. As I have mentioned in previous entries, I quite like combining my personal and professional life, to a certain extent. Linkedin makes me feel like I'm at a job interview and that if I am anything other than completely straight-faced and sensible and that if I, say, try to make a (very tame) joke, I will not get a laugh, but a disapproving look.
I like the idea of Linkedin. I can definitely see its merit. But there is something impersonal about it that just doesn't grab my attention.
I also find a network which resembles a job application form to be a bit, well, boring. Job application forms are necessary, but they're not necessarily the things that are most interesting about people.
That said, the groups are good, I've joined a couple that post updates about job vacancies, which is something especially useful for a new professional coming to the end of their studies. The discussions also offer more than the profiles and give a real sense of the people behind them.
2. Facebook
I actually quite like Facebook. Privacy issues concern me, but I keep my security settings up quite high. I also get weirded out occassionally by the amount people are happy to share, but I think the good things outweigh the bad most of the time.
I regard Facebook as a personal network, as opposed to a professional one. I suppose Linkedin is purely professional, Facebook purely personal, and Twitter is a bit of both (but more on that in a minute).
I enjoy Facebook because so many people use it. I get invited to gigs, birthday parties, art exhibition openings and even weddings on there. It is, though, primarily social.
And there is a part of me that is sad that it's harder to keep in touch with people without it.
Photo by Eric Fischer showing Flickr and Twitter usage.
3. Twitter
I do like Twitter. I just find it fascinating how you can message anyone on there and get a reply. I like the access to information and the scope of the thing. That said, it is a bit of a time-suck for this very reason. The constant flow of information is a little overwhelming and sometimes gets too much. There have been many occassions when I've had to log-off due to the fact that it has become a little distracting.
I am not sure how I feel about the internet in terms of information overload (& Twitter seems to typify this) - it's sometimes difficult to self-moderate how much you take in & I personally feel dazed and confused after being on Twitter for too long. On the other hand, the internet makes more information available to people and Twitter is fairly democratic and that's a good thing, right?
Either way, I will probably carry on using Twitter, but may have to learn when to log out!
In terms of other networks - I am not a member of any online library-related networks and didn't know about them until doing this exercise! I have joined Google+ but have found I rarely check it - not much seems to be going on as yet. I'm not sure about the "circles" feature - it feels odd catagorising people. But I'm sure none of its features will become completely clear to me unless I start using them properly!
I can't really get the hang of Linkedin. As I have mentioned in previous entries, I quite like combining my personal and professional life, to a certain extent. Linkedin makes me feel like I'm at a job interview and that if I am anything other than completely straight-faced and sensible and that if I, say, try to make a (very tame) joke, I will not get a laugh, but a disapproving look.
I like the idea of Linkedin. I can definitely see its merit. But there is something impersonal about it that just doesn't grab my attention.
I also find a network which resembles a job application form to be a bit, well, boring. Job application forms are necessary, but they're not necessarily the things that are most interesting about people.
That said, the groups are good, I've joined a couple that post updates about job vacancies, which is something especially useful for a new professional coming to the end of their studies. The discussions also offer more than the profiles and give a real sense of the people behind them.
2. Facebook
I actually quite like Facebook. Privacy issues concern me, but I keep my security settings up quite high. I also get weirded out occassionally by the amount people are happy to share, but I think the good things outweigh the bad most of the time.
I regard Facebook as a personal network, as opposed to a professional one. I suppose Linkedin is purely professional, Facebook purely personal, and Twitter is a bit of both (but more on that in a minute).
I enjoy Facebook because so many people use it. I get invited to gigs, birthday parties, art exhibition openings and even weddings on there. It is, though, primarily social.
And there is a part of me that is sad that it's harder to keep in touch with people without it.
Photo by Eric Fischer showing Flickr and Twitter usage.
3. Twitter
I do like Twitter. I just find it fascinating how you can message anyone on there and get a reply. I like the access to information and the scope of the thing. That said, it is a bit of a time-suck for this very reason. The constant flow of information is a little overwhelming and sometimes gets too much. There have been many occassions when I've had to log-off due to the fact that it has become a little distracting.
I am not sure how I feel about the internet in terms of information overload (& Twitter seems to typify this) - it's sometimes difficult to self-moderate how much you take in & I personally feel dazed and confused after being on Twitter for too long. On the other hand, the internet makes more information available to people and Twitter is fairly democratic and that's a good thing, right?
Either way, I will probably carry on using Twitter, but may have to learn when to log out!
In terms of other networks - I am not a member of any online library-related networks and didn't know about them until doing this exercise! I have joined Google+ but have found I rarely check it - not much seems to be going on as yet. I'm not sure about the "circles" feature - it feels odd catagorising people. But I'm sure none of its features will become completely clear to me unless I start using them properly!
Tuesday 26 July 2011
Thing 5: Reflective Practice
I am not really sure what to say about reflective practice. I have no experience of it in a professional sense, due to the fact I am still studying, and I only have a small amount of experience from my degree course, where I had to write a reflective report for one of my modules. I feel like I already do reflect a lot (which I often call "overthinking") but not in a way I could call a "practice" or in any way a structured, useful exercise.
I have reservations about reflective practice in terms of how time-consuming it could potentially be, although I appreciate that adopting a reflective practice attitude is useful. The structure of reflective practice will, I think, be especially so.
I am going to use the following questions and apply them to my participation in cpd23 thus far:
What did you learn?
So far I have learned about some online tools I didn't know about. I have started participating in the library-related blog world and have met some new people (although as I'm behind, that's actually a week 7 activity-related thing!) I have also realised I get into habits online and this makes me more closed to new things, which is not good.
What did you enjoy?
I enjoyed reading new blogs the most. It's nice to have the incentive to do some exploring online. I have really enjoyed reading other interpretations of the tasks. I also, surprisingly, quite enjoyed considering the concept of my "personal brand". It's an interesting topic of debate, it seems!
I am also really looking forward to the coming activities.
What worked well?
RSS feeds! I should have explored them before. I am still not sure I will continue, but they are useful. I think this activity as a whole worked very well and encouraged me to stop being a lazy internet being!
What, if anything, went wrong?
Nothing has gone wrong so far, hopefully this will continue to be the case.
What would you change?
I would probably try and make more time for the activities. Life always gets in the way. For example, today I spent until 3pm applying for a job, running around trying to find my degree certificate!
In terms of the actual course, I think it's very well-structured and I'm learning things both about how I work and how things, especially online things, work. I've found it difficult to keep up with lots of blogs due to the sheer volume! I wouldn't change that though...it's great that so many people are getting involved.
What (potential) impact could this have in your workplace?
I'm currently applying for jobs so it's useful when jobs have some sort of mention of "professional development" in the job specification.
In terms of practical uses, I'm certainly keen on using technology in any job I end up doing. I'm very keen on working in education, and Web 2.0 technology use in education is definitely an area of interest. I think doing the course has even showed me a new use for Twitter, through the cpd23 hashtag - an example of Web 2.0 being used in an educational context.
Thursday 14 July 2011
Thing 4: Current Awareness - Twitter, RSS and Pushnote
Regarding this task, I first of all have a confession: I am actually a bit of a Luddite. I have mixed feelings about the internet. I have a mobile phone which can't even take photographs, let alone enable me to go online. I am fairly suspicious of new technology. I often wish I could move to a little hut in the countryside with no internet connection.
That said, I do also like the internet a lot and am trying to embrace all it has to offer!
Twitter
Twitter is probably my favourite of the three. I like the social element mixed in with the keeping-up-to-date stuff. I enjoy the debate and conversation. It keeps things interesting.
I first joined Twitter in 2009 and didn't like it at all. I tended to tweet about really banal, boring stuff, or not bother at all because I had nothing of interest to say.
I then started following lots of craft-related people. I found that Twitter became a good way of finding out about craft fairs or other crafters in my local area. I started to see the point of it. I then started my MA last September, and again realised that Twitter could be a valuable source of Library information.
It's only really in the last 6 months that I've enjoyed Twitter. I don't have a Smartphone, which sometimes makes me feel like I'm missing out, but I think it's nice to be able to come away from the computer and switch off. I do find it quite overwhelming at times to keep up with things and the character-limit is frustrating at times, but I much prefer it to any other method of getting LIS-related news due to the potential for interaction.
RSS
Another confession: I have never used RSS feeds. There is no good reason for this, I have just never embraced them. I guess I quite like pottering around online when I have time or am in the mood, rather than having news come to me. However, I fear I am simply letting my luddite side win this argument, so I am going to give it a try! I have set up a feed as part of this activity and so far, so good.
Pushnote
I think that, out of the three, Pushnote is my least favourite. I think it would be better if I knew more people who use it, but at the moment not many do. I also use Internet Explorer at home (which my techie friends always tell me off for!) and it's not currently supported on this browser. I am not writing it off completely; I think it could be really good if enough people got involved, so I will probably check back every now and again.
That said, I do also like the internet a lot and am trying to embrace all it has to offer!
Twitter is probably my favourite of the three. I like the social element mixed in with the keeping-up-to-date stuff. I enjoy the debate and conversation. It keeps things interesting.
I first joined Twitter in 2009 and didn't like it at all. I tended to tweet about really banal, boring stuff, or not bother at all because I had nothing of interest to say.
I then started following lots of craft-related people. I found that Twitter became a good way of finding out about craft fairs or other crafters in my local area. I started to see the point of it. I then started my MA last September, and again realised that Twitter could be a valuable source of Library information.
It's only really in the last 6 months that I've enjoyed Twitter. I don't have a Smartphone, which sometimes makes me feel like I'm missing out, but I think it's nice to be able to come away from the computer and switch off. I do find it quite overwhelming at times to keep up with things and the character-limit is frustrating at times, but I much prefer it to any other method of getting LIS-related news due to the potential for interaction.
RSS
Another confession: I have never used RSS feeds. There is no good reason for this, I have just never embraced them. I guess I quite like pottering around online when I have time or am in the mood, rather than having news come to me. However, I fear I am simply letting my luddite side win this argument, so I am going to give it a try! I have set up a feed as part of this activity and so far, so good.
Pushnote
I think that, out of the three, Pushnote is my least favourite. I think it would be better if I knew more people who use it, but at the moment not many do. I also use Internet Explorer at home (which my techie friends always tell me off for!) and it's not currently supported on this browser. I am not writing it off completely; I think it could be really good if enough people got involved, so I will probably check back every now and again.
Wednesday 13 July 2011
Manchester cpd23 Meet-up Event
Wednesday 20th July, 6:30pm onwards, Port Street Beer House, 39-41, Port Street, Manchester, M1 2EQ (in the Northern Quarter)
Please comment on this post if you would like to come! Or tweet me @manynicethings
Please comment on this post if you would like to come! Or tweet me @manynicethings
Monday 11 July 2011
Thing 3: Consider your personal brand
It is only recently that I have considered using the internet in a "professional" capacity. I don't think I even realised that so many people used the internet in such a way until earlier this year when it was discussed as part of my MA course. So before then, my internet use was predominantly related to my personal interests and while I had considered the various implications of public information sharing and was aware of how the way I presented myself online could potentially be perceived by others, I certainly hadn't thought of it in terms of my "personal brand".
I think I have been reluctant to do so for a few reasons:
1) The word "brand". I feel as though there is something inherently false about this word, which is probably wrapped up in my suspicion of commercial advertising and big business. I know that people present different sides of themselves depending on the situation and perhaps this is no different; I also know that appearances and first impressions are important, but it feels somewhat strange and disconcerting to think of my online persona as a brand.
2) My default setting is self-deprecating. I am far more likely to pick out my flaws and make a joke out of them rather than admit to where my strengths lie. I really like self-deprecating humour in others too. I find it charming. Obviously I don't really think I'm bad at everything, but trying to sell myself as a "new professional" just feels slightly odd. Maybe this is something I need to work on!
3) I am interested in so many things! Things like....
Classic Sociology
Parks and Recreation
Superchunk
Margaret Atwood
....and I think this is a good thing. I don't want to filter out all the things that make me "me". I like to think that potential employers would want someone who likes lots of things and is passionate about even more things. I think that if I thought about my personal brand too much, I would get too self-conscious about it all and would never say anything at all.
I use the name @manynicethings on Twitter as this is the name of my craft project and was the reason I started using Twitter to begin with. It's a fairly simple name and doesn't say too much about me as a person, but I have grown to quite like it, even if it is a bit on the twee side. I usually put my real name on all my online sites. I used to worry about this, and what people thought of me, but in the last year or so have realised that it doesn't really matter: life is too short.
On Twitter, I use a picture of myself on holiday in Portugal. On blogger, I use a picture my sister took with one of her "arty" cameras. I should probably have more consistency in terms of my image, but I never seem to get around to it. I also like my sister's photographs!
I don't really keep my personal and professional identities compartmentalised. I use my Twitter account for my craft work, my writing and my professional library stuff. All of these things are important to me, and are all part of who I am. I sometimes wonder if I should start keeping things separate, but I don't think I could...they all overlap too often! I also know that I really enjoy other Twitter accounts that mix the two. That said, I do try to not "overshare" and I tend to talk about things I'm interested in as opposed to personal, emotional-type stuff.
My visual brand is somewhat inconsistent, but I like to think that there is some sort of connection in style between things. I like quite minimal styles and I am interested in colour/design, so I am aware of what things look like. I have three blogs, and I like having different designs for each of them. My Twitter is again different. It would perhaps be a good idea to have one consistent element throughout, which is something I will think about!
When I googled my name, only one of the results on the first page was me, for a story I recently had published on a writing blog. Sarah Reid is a fairly common name. It also seems that there is a Scottish curler who I share my name with. Not sure how I can compete with that really!
If anyone has any comments on my personal brand, feel free to comment below!
I think I have been reluctant to do so for a few reasons:
1) The word "brand". I feel as though there is something inherently false about this word, which is probably wrapped up in my suspicion of commercial advertising and big business. I know that people present different sides of themselves depending on the situation and perhaps this is no different; I also know that appearances and first impressions are important, but it feels somewhat strange and disconcerting to think of my online persona as a brand.
2) My default setting is self-deprecating. I am far more likely to pick out my flaws and make a joke out of them rather than admit to where my strengths lie. I really like self-deprecating humour in others too. I find it charming. Obviously I don't really think I'm bad at everything, but trying to sell myself as a "new professional" just feels slightly odd. Maybe this is something I need to work on!
3) I am interested in so many things! Things like....
Classic Sociology
Parks and Recreation
Superchunk
Margaret Atwood
....and I think this is a good thing. I don't want to filter out all the things that make me "me". I like to think that potential employers would want someone who likes lots of things and is passionate about even more things. I think that if I thought about my personal brand too much, I would get too self-conscious about it all and would never say anything at all.
I use the name @manynicethings on Twitter as this is the name of my craft project and was the reason I started using Twitter to begin with. It's a fairly simple name and doesn't say too much about me as a person, but I have grown to quite like it, even if it is a bit on the twee side. I usually put my real name on all my online sites. I used to worry about this, and what people thought of me, but in the last year or so have realised that it doesn't really matter: life is too short.
On Twitter, I use a picture of myself on holiday in Portugal. On blogger, I use a picture my sister took with one of her "arty" cameras. I should probably have more consistency in terms of my image, but I never seem to get around to it. I also like my sister's photographs!
I don't really keep my personal and professional identities compartmentalised. I use my Twitter account for my craft work, my writing and my professional library stuff. All of these things are important to me, and are all part of who I am. I sometimes wonder if I should start keeping things separate, but I don't think I could...they all overlap too often! I also know that I really enjoy other Twitter accounts that mix the two. That said, I do try to not "overshare" and I tend to talk about things I'm interested in as opposed to personal, emotional-type stuff.
My visual brand is somewhat inconsistent, but I like to think that there is some sort of connection in style between things. I like quite minimal styles and I am interested in colour/design, so I am aware of what things look like. I have three blogs, and I like having different designs for each of them. My Twitter is again different. It would perhaps be a good idea to have one consistent element throughout, which is something I will think about!
When I googled my name, only one of the results on the first page was me, for a story I recently had published on a writing blog. Sarah Reid is a fairly common name. It also seems that there is a Scottish curler who I share my name with. Not sure how I can compete with that really!
If anyone has any comments on my personal brand, feel free to comment below!
Thursday 7 July 2011
Thing 2: Investigate some other blogs
My day of catch-up continues!
I enjoyed this activity, although felt slightly tongue-tied/strange when leaving comments, especially with people I don't actually know. Internet etiquette is still confusing to me, I am always somewhat worried I will end up seeming like this guy.
Also, I fell out with Blogspot for a while when it deleted all the blogs I had so carefully listed using its "Blog List" feature, meaning I had to go through them all again.
I started off by looking at Lauren Smith's 23 things blog because I know her in real life, as well as the fact that she does so much awesome library stuff and knows lots of people. Looking through the links on Lauren's blog then led me to some other blogs by people I recognised from Twitter, and then I left some more comments.
Due to the fact I'm not actually working at the moment, I wasn't 100% sure where to focus my attention in terms of sector. I do have dreams of my "ideal" job (or even jobs I'd really quite like to do) but I don't want to focus things too heavily in one area at a time when jobs generally are quite difficult to find. Basically, I'm trying to be open-minded about where I am going to end up working. With this in mind, I've tried read quite a broad range of blogs. This was also useful in terms of finding out more about different sectors and giving me perspectives on areas I may not have considered.
It has also been interesting to pick up on some of the broader debates going on in the information profession at the moment. Sometimes it can be hard to keep up with everything, so blogs are a useful way of gathering information into one place. Reading some of the cpd23 blogs has made it easier to make sense of LIS-related information which previously seemed completely overwhelming.
It's really interesting to see how differently people have interpreted the tasks. For example, I really enjoyed Helen Murphy's take on the "branding" task.
I am hoping to build up the list of blogs I read gradually. Due to the fact I'm a latecomer, I've been trying to catch up on blogs from Thing 1, so it's probably a bit more time consuming than if I had started this on time. I could have just started from this week I suppose, but I really want to complete all the tasks. 23 is a nice number.
I enjoyed this activity, although felt slightly tongue-tied/strange when leaving comments, especially with people I don't actually know. Internet etiquette is still confusing to me, I am always somewhat worried I will end up seeming like this guy.
Also, I fell out with Blogspot for a while when it deleted all the blogs I had so carefully listed using its "Blog List" feature, meaning I had to go through them all again.
I started off by looking at Lauren Smith's 23 things blog because I know her in real life, as well as the fact that she does so much awesome library stuff and knows lots of people. Looking through the links on Lauren's blog then led me to some other blogs by people I recognised from Twitter, and then I left some more comments.
Due to the fact I'm not actually working at the moment, I wasn't 100% sure where to focus my attention in terms of sector. I do have dreams of my "ideal" job (or even jobs I'd really quite like to do) but I don't want to focus things too heavily in one area at a time when jobs generally are quite difficult to find. Basically, I'm trying to be open-minded about where I am going to end up working. With this in mind, I've tried read quite a broad range of blogs. This was also useful in terms of finding out more about different sectors and giving me perspectives on areas I may not have considered.
It has also been interesting to pick up on some of the broader debates going on in the information profession at the moment. Sometimes it can be hard to keep up with everything, so blogs are a useful way of gathering information into one place. Reading some of the cpd23 blogs has made it easier to make sense of LIS-related information which previously seemed completely overwhelming.
It's really interesting to see how differently people have interpreted the tasks. For example, I really enjoyed Helen Murphy's take on the "branding" task.
I am hoping to build up the list of blogs I read gradually. Due to the fact I'm a latecomer, I've been trying to catch up on blogs from Thing 1, so it's probably a bit more time consuming than if I had started this on time. I could have just started from this week I suppose, but I really want to complete all the tasks. 23 is a nice number.
Thing 1
I'm a bit late starting these 23 things, but I decided this morning that I'd give it a go. I'm currently in the middle of collecting data for my Library and Information Management MA dissertation, so have been somewhat distracted and hadn't really engaged with what "cpd23" actually meant, despite seeing it pop up on my twitter feed almost daily. Today I actually decided to find out what it is all about, and I thought it might be a good idea to participate for three major reasons, two of which may or may not be sort of the same reason, worded differently:
1) I think that this summer it would be a good idea to focus on developing some sort of skills and experience outside of my dissertation research. Also, I need the odd break from my research. I feel this is good for the health.
2) I am a new professional (almost) and this is a tough time, not only for libraries, but for everyone. Doing these 23 things seems like it could help.
3) I don't know that many other professionals who aren't on my course. I follow a few people on twitter, but it's hard to know how to open dialogue. I am hoping doing this will help me get to know like-minded people.
I have kept blogs before, but this is the first in a professional capacity. So I hope I do okay!
Out of the 23 things, I am most looking forward to the presenting information week as this is something I have little experience of. I think that this will be especially useful. Oh, and I enjoyed making this blog!
I am least looking forward to considering my personal brand - the word "brand" makes me feel slightly uneasy due to its commercial connotations. Nevertheless, I think it will be an interesting one to consider in more depth.
1) I think that this summer it would be a good idea to focus on developing some sort of skills and experience outside of my dissertation research. Also, I need the odd break from my research. I feel this is good for the health.
2) I am a new professional (almost) and this is a tough time, not only for libraries, but for everyone. Doing these 23 things seems like it could help.
3) I don't know that many other professionals who aren't on my course. I follow a few people on twitter, but it's hard to know how to open dialogue. I am hoping doing this will help me get to know like-minded people.
I have kept blogs before, but this is the first in a professional capacity. So I hope I do okay!
Out of the 23 things, I am most looking forward to the presenting information week as this is something I have little experience of. I think that this will be especially useful. Oh, and I enjoyed making this blog!
I am least looking forward to considering my personal brand - the word "brand" makes me feel slightly uneasy due to its commercial connotations. Nevertheless, I think it will be an interesting one to consider in more depth.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)