Web 2.0

Finally I have gotten to a point where I have learned what Web 2.0 is. All this time I have been wondering but have felt too pushed for time to go out of my way to look it up. Now it appears, in the last Module (which I should have read weeks ago...). I feel very silly.

This now my interpretation of Web 2.0: it is the term used to describe a new generation of Internet technology where communication can go both ways rather than being static, just informing the audience. Web 2.0 is interactive. It has been extended to encompass other new things such as podcasts, but primarily concerns things such as blogs, wikis and social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, MySpace), where the user is able to communicate with others, and these others are able to communicate back.

Some of the questions from module 8:

What do you think are the key aspects of Web 2.0 that are likely to impact on education in today’s schools?
+ Classes will be able to collaborate using technology
+ Students are more likely to be engaged, particularly as they will feel that the learning related to their lives, where technology plays a big part
+ Things such as blogs and wikis are already having an impact on education, where teachers are confident enough to work with them - hopefully in the future, all teachers will work on their confidence and give these things a go as they realise the important role they are likely to play in students' lives.

What are the opportunities here for teacher librarians?
Teacher librarians can take on leadership roles in the Web 2.0 environment, showing themselves to be leaders in technology as well as information. They can show teachers in particular how these relatively new technologies can be used to enhance learning, and increase information literacy skills. Not only should they show teachers and students, but support them in extending their own knowledge and abilities in this area.

Can teacher librarians afford to ignore Web 2.0 tools?
No.
If TLs do not step forward and embrace new technologies and different ways to gain access to information, and to share information, then they will be left behind. Already there are whispers of questions about the need for teacher librarians in this digital age - this is the opportunity for TLs to show everyone that not only are they still important, but that they are essential aspects in the steps towards using digital information. That they are willing and able to embrace new things, and to help the rest of the school community to do so as well.