#12 reflections on the learning 2.0 program

I've enjoyed this Learning 2.0 program. It has been good to feel encouraged to devote time to investigating all these whiz-bang web2.0 thingies that we hear so much about. While most of the Web tools investigated were ones I was already somewhat familiar with, it has been helpful to take the time to look a bit closer, and to reflect on how they could be used in a library context.

I like that the program we followed focused on just a few of the most popular and relevant trends and sites, and that the focus was on considering the potential for application within a library. The format of the program combining workshops, self-paced exploration, and blog sharing also worked well for me. I enjoyed being able to explore at my own pace, delving into more detail when the fancy took me, but also being able to refer to the other participant blogs, suggested readings or the workshops for alternative perspectives on the tools being considered. Blogging also encouraged me to think more deeply and reflectively about the program.

My biggest reservation about the program is that it focuses very heavily on building awareness of particular Web2.0 tools and sites as opposed to building the habits and skills that might support the continued use and exploration of Web2.0 tools more generally.

The knowledge that sets apart those who are "good with computers" from those who class themselves as technophobes relates less to fixed knowledge of particular programs, devices or sites than to knowledge of how to probe, how to test, how to play, and how to find out more. Computer technologies and the internet evolve so quickly that there is much more value in knowing how to find out how to use something than in just knowing how to use it.

Theoretically the learning 2.0 program fosters these skills by providing the tools to play with, and the space and encouragement to play. But I worry that anyone relatively uncomfortable with computers, with limited interest in the internet, and with a pressing workload, would be resistant to playing with Web2.0, when they have so many other things to do. Perhaps then the program could begin by outlining the real benefits of taking the time to explore and play, even when you don't know exactly what you will learn, or why it might be relevant.

Finally, if staff are to devote time to learning about Web2.0 they need to feel that they will be trusted to apply what they have learnt. There is great potential to use Web2.0 tools to promote library collections, to teach research skills and to share all kinds of library related information both with library users and with other professionals, but initiative can easily be stifled if even simple ideas must pass through several committees to gain approval. I think it would be wonderful if all staff who have completed the Learning2.0 program were granted a blanket Web2.0 license. That way we could experiment with SLV subject and collection blogs, with Flickr commons, or how-to videos, without everything needing to pass through complicated approvals processes. I think that libraries can only fully embrace the potential of web2.0 technologies if they really trust their staff and give them the freedom to experiment.