Tech Stations

In class (1/19), we had the opportunity to explore various computer stations linked to websites of interest. My favorites were Jing (www.jingproject.com) and 3B (www.3B.net). I can see how using Jing will help especially in training situations. Some people really just have to see it done before they can do it themselves, even if step by step and word for word directions are given. Some people are just wired that way. I saw the possibilities of working with it with students and with teachers; through this website, I could take a snapshot or video of a computer screen (for instance, with cursor in motion) to demonstrate how an action is done. Very useful.

I also enjoyed the 3B world because it appeared to be applicable across a wide range of uses. I could envision putting the library itself in such a virtual world, where people could browse various rooms devoted to such topics as genealogy (more applicable to public library), medical information, library services, local events, etc. Websites could be chosen that apply to that particular topic and it could serve as a guide for users to navigate certain research areas. I see it applicable for teachers in that a teacher could choose a particular topic and several websites on that topic then allow students to browse the chosen sites for specific information like a scavenger hunt or to search for a group project. Students would not have to have the same topic to research, rather a subtopic of a larger whole. For instance, if I were teaching about the American Civil War, I might have chosen various websites I felt appropriate and given students particular topics to research within that umbrella topic of the war. They might research weaponry, battlefields, military personnel, political leaders, orators, etc. As a teacher, I could limit and choose appropriate research materials for their use rather than let them loose to google wherever they may. Very cool. Freedom of information within a somewhat controlled environment. That is awesome. Dr. Sanders also mentioned a more controlled, private environment that is similar in form to 3B --go go frog. Need to get more information about this site.