February 9, 2011 - Blog Response

Describe 2 ideas that were brought up in the Article #2 discussions.  How can you relate this information to your professional life?

Jenny's article regarding Internet safety and literacy hit home today.  I was part of a discussion this morning (February 9, 2011) regarding the fact that there is a new program that is being used at one of our middle schools that screens for certain keywords.  Two or three kids have been pinpointed that were discussing suicide.  The guidance department followed up on these students to provide them support.

In the discussion that occurred in response to my article, it was noted that it was a good idea to use the same common research strategy for the whole district at the various levels.  I feel that this could be beneficial because students would be able to learn a system and then apply it easily.  However, I also feel like sometimes something that is designed for everyone does not work for all the students.  Everyone learns differently so that one approach may not be the best. 


 Describe 2 highlights that caught your attention in our readings for this week.  Why was it significant for you?

I thought it was interesting how the book pointed out that students have the tendency to go to the same websites (google & wikipedia) for information.  It is important to make sure students realize although information is readily available it may not be what is the best out there.

I found the detailed information provided about the seven different types of reference interesting.  I have been exposed to many of the reference materials when I was younger.  However, I did not know all of them. 

 How is the Internet Log coming?  Questions/concerns? 
I have found a number of sites now.  I was initially concerned about the lack of sites, but now have found more than what is required.

  Library Visit Questions?   
I don't have any specific questions.  Since this is my first presentation, I am waiting to see some of my classmates presentations to get an idea of what is expected and what can be done.  I have an idea and will see if I will go that route.

 Questions about your Online Database Presentation or your Library Lesson?
At the public library, the reference librarian pointed out a specific database that I thought sounded very interesting.  I am going to look into it and decide soon if I want to use that site verses a database offered  at one of my schools.
I am in the very early stages regarding a library lesson.

 (Louis Question) – How has our class and this week’s activities effected you in your professional life?  Discuss two things that you have learned about this week.

I have have had a direct impact on not be able to access websites because they are blocked by the filters in our schools.  You are able to send an email to the tech department asking them to unblock a website; however, on one instance I remember that my request was denied and a similar website was offered.  

I mentioned this earlier in my blog but I am happy that my district has the technology to screen for specific keywords.  Yes, there is a level of privacy that needs to be adhered to for everyone; however, when a student is contemplating a suicide, all bets are off.  If the district can help a family from suffering a huge loss, I am all for it.