Digital Learn.org is a new beta website-launched this month!
If you have learners that struggle with the computer basics this site is for you. It provides free tools, techniques and tips to help build confidence with technology (email, internet searching, etc.) It is sponsored by the Public Libraries Association (PLA) and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, however the tutorials can be viewed by any patron looking for help.
The main page is divided into two sections, one for the patrons (learn) and the other for support staff (help learners). The link for support staff will take you to a form to request additional information about future services and tools; so for a quick application of this ed-tech tool the “learn” tab will be extremely useful.
Please keep in mind that because this is a new beta site, the contents will continue to grow over time!
Quick Response Codes (QR Codes) consists of black modules (square dots) arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded can be made up of virtually any kind of data. If you have a mobile device that uses smart technology (IPhone, Android, IPad, etc.) you can download an app that will read these two-dimensional (matrix) codes.
Originally QR codes were designed for the automotive industry to store large amounts of production information. More recently, the system has become popular across any industry type due to accessibility, readability and large storage capacity (compared to standard UPC barcodes). Today its has any number of applications for anyone looking to market to a tech savvy customer without the need for large layout space. If you are interested in creating your own QR code all it takes is a free QR code writer and you can begin placing them on any printable surface.
Check back next week, CMLE will feature a member library who is using this little box in a big way.
Some rights reserved by Pictofigo Did you ever have what you thought was a great idea-but the timing was off?
This week CMLE takes a look back at six innovative ideas that were merely a few years ahead of their time. However, today some of these cast-offs have become ingrained in our everyday lives.
I guess timing truly is everything! Click here-Just for Fun!
Electronic Books (eBooks) are growing in popularity among avid readers. As a result, libraries have begun to integrate digital materials in their collections for patrons. However, commercially available publications often include some kind of digital rights management (DRM) that limit or prohibit sharing. As the eBook trend continues to grow, libraries themselves can become vital participants in the emerging models for eBook sharing, content creation and delivery.
On Tuesday, April 30th, Webjunction will be hosting a free webinar at noon (Central Time). Click here for additional information.
