Beyond Method #12

This is a good program, and I enjoyed it.  My eyes were opened a bit regarding the balance that libraries face with proving ebooks for patrons - quite interesting.

I can't tell you the last time I've been inside a public library - shame, I know. I've also gained more insight as to how each one helps serve a community. It must be a challenge to helping those using computers to search for jobs, create email, and other computer-related skills.  Teaching and helping students is one thing, but I continue to struggle when working with adults.

Beyond Method # 11

These are some great tools, and I've used several of them at school. Principals have asked me to create campus climate surveys and others for various feedback. I've used Survey Monkey and Poll Daddy as well as Google Forms for these, both paid and free versions at times depending upon the request.  All are fairly simple to create and use, and the data collection/analysis provided with some can be really helpful.

For classroom and other student services, I've used and helped teachers use several including Poll Everywhere, Wiffiti, and Google Forms. There always seems to be a need or demand for these tools in the library and classroom; many education versions are also available now, and they make getting instant feedback so easy. Here's one I created for a teacher as an exit ticket in an Algebra class based on the new STAAR test:

Beyond Method #10

I have had the opportunity to participate in video conferencing in the past; however, I still can't believe that I have never Skyped - not even personally! It's on my bucket list for 2012. My coworkers and I have had online conferences before using Elluminate, and I've attended countless webinars that have used Go To Meeting, Web Ex, and others. I really like the concept especially for training purposes. Because the option of recording and playback is available, these meetings allow participants to revisit the conference. And the cost savings is enormous. I definitely see a place for more video conferencing in libraries and hope to extend beyond authors and into virtual guest speakers with say - a marine biologist, a cake decorator, and others - real world views.

Beyond Method #9

I've used almost all of these tools before for personal projects or helping students with theirs.  This time I used one of my absolute favorites - Animoto.  Such a great product, and "the guys" continue to make it better all the time.

No problems telling my story, and students don't seem to have any either. Digital storytelling is a must have in libraries. With the technology that's available, it has the power to transform history and memories, entertainment and fun.  Many of these tools will revamp themselves over the years and allow users to bring words to life.

Beyond Method #8

Screencast-O-Matic is my tool of choice.  I had bookmarked this site a while back, but because I use Jing when I need to screencast, I never got around to giving it a try. It was very easy to use, and unlike Jing, I like how the screencast highlights my cursor with a yellow circle making it easier for the user to follow.  Will have to give it some more practice to see which one I like better.  Didn't notice a way to embed though.  Here's my example:

Attach File to Email