home

== =Web 2.0 Tools in School Libraries=

The phrase 2.0 generally conjures ideas of the next generation of something, an improvement on the previous model. When we think of the Internet, we commonly imagine static web pages with text and images, published online and occasionally updated by the author. Web 2.0 tools capitalize on the social and dynamic potential of the Internet by emphasizing sharing and collaboration. In Web 2.0, the exchange of ideas is constant. Some examples of Web 2.0 tools include photo and video sharing sites (Flickr and YouTube), social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter and NING), blogs, wikis, social bookmarking (Delicious and Shelfari), homepages with content personalized through RSS feeds, quiz creators (Quizlet and Surveymonkey) and communication tools (Skype and Yahoo Messenger). The web is no longer a repository for information, but a vehicle for communication and discussion. As the online atmosphere changes, it is important that students are prepared to navigate the new environment responsibly. It can be difficult to decide what information should be public and what should be private. Using the tools for educational purposes can provide a safe arena for students to learn to use social tools responsibly. By creating and publishing their own opinions and findings, students can also understand how discerning they need to be when navigating the online contribution of others. It is not uncommon for college level courses to contain online elements. MIT offers their course materials online through open courseware ([] ), and Carelton University allows students to "remix" videos of lectures to create and share study guides ([]). Online collaboration is also increasing in the workplace as our markets become increasingly global. Using Web 2.0 tools helps students build the new skill set required for academic and vocational success. Web 2.0 tools can also provide an element of excitement to educational units. Imagine if students were as motivated to research and write their World History paper as they are to check their Facebook account! The peer-review aspect of Web 2.0 tools can help students examine their assumptions critically and develop ideas further. Because projects are constantly morphing, the learning doesn’t have to stop when one “turns in the paper.” As librarians, we shouldn't ignore the literacy component of online interaction. Not only are we increasing student's information and media literacy, but they are reading when they use and create web 2.0 tools. Tools should make sense in the curriculum and integrate skills and content seamlessly. What are my objectives for this unit? If you can't justify the tool, don't use it. Forcing "trendy" technology tools will result in short-lived units and frustrated collaborating teachers. Choose appropriate presentation methods, and your units can incorporate research, technology skills, literacy and engagement for students. There are so many possibities! Don't be scared to try them with students. There can are most likely will be glitches, but these are merely learning curves toward your own library 2.0.
 * What are Web 2.0 tools?**
 * Why use them in library instruction?**
 * How do I integrate the tools?**

http://randolph-webtools.wikispaces.com/

Joy Foust is the Director of Middle and Upper School Library at Randolph School in Huntsville, Alabama.