About Learning 2.0 @ New Canaan Library

This blog has been set-up as part of Learning 2.0 @ New Canaan Library to encourage staff to explore, discover, and play with the new and emerging technologies that are reshaping the context of information on the Internet today. The objectives of this program are to:

• encourage exploration of Web 2.0 and new technologies by New Canaan Library staff
• provide staff with new tools (that are freely available on the Internet) to better support New Canaan Library’s values: Embracing technology that delivers cutting-edge resources for the 21 st century
• reward staff for taking the initiative to complete 23 self-discovery exercises

The Learning 2.0 program was originally designed by Helene Blowers, PLCMC Technology Director. Many libraries have adopted this program and modified it to meet their individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How does this online learning program work?
  This is a self-discovery program which encourages staff to take control of their own learning and to utilize their lifelong learning skills through exploration and PLAY. There will be no classes or workshops offered to support this program. Instead, staff are encouraged to work together and share with each other their discoveries, techniques and “how to’s” both in person and through their blogs.
  
  
• Is this program open to all New Canaan Library staff or just some?
  This program is open to ALL New Canaan Library staff regardless of position and status (full and part time). If you are not a member of the New Canaan Library staff, you are welcome to follow along, however the library cannot award you any staff prizes for completion.
  
  
• How long do I have to complete the program?
  The program kicks off April 13 and will run for ten weeks until June 21 and officially wraps up on TBA. All blog entries should be posted by that time.
  

• How do I track my progress for each of the 23 Things?
  Each staff member that chooses to participate in this program will be required to keep a blog to track their progress. Program coordinator, Maura Deedy, will keep track of your blog posts.
  
  
• If I’m not a New Canaan Library staff member, can I still participate?
  Yes, by all means. However, New Canaan Library cannot award you any incentives or prizes for completion.
  
  
• Will there be any training classes offered to show staff how to do this?
  No, this is a self-directed learning program. If you feel you need assistance with an item, you are encouraged to be resourceful and to find a co-worker or another staff member who can help. Reading other staff member’s blogs can help, too.

• What if I need help - who can I call?
  Since this program is self-directed and is being completed by many staff members throughout the system simultaneously, you are encouraged to work with colleagues along your discovery journey. One of the goals of the program is to encourage collaboration and learning, so working together in groups or pairs is encouraged. To find a list of staff participating see The Participants.

• I’ve seen the list of 23 Things on the website, but how do I know what to do with them?
  Each week, two or three posts will be added to the Learning 2.0 with details about the discovery exercises for that week. The reason for this staggered approach is to allow participants the ability to focus each week on a different area without feeling overwhelmed.
  
  
• Can I work ahead through the list of items on my own?
  Yes, of course. You are encouraged to self-direct your discovery process, especially by working ahead on your own!! However, if you do work ahead on some items, be sure to check back on the exercise details for each item once they are posted so you can be sure to receive full credit for its completion.
  
  
  
  
• I would like to earn the flash drive but don’t feel comfortable with my co-workers reading my blog, can I participate anonymously?
  Yes & No. Since you control all the information that you share on your blog, you can choose to use a screen name to identify yourself to keep yourself anonymous. However, in order to receive the flash drive player, you will need to identify yourself to the Program Coordinator to ensure you are fulfilling the requirements.
  

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