Elementary MC Observation
I was finally able to spend some time observing in an Elementary school. I really enjoyed seeing the children. The MS is someone that I know from my son attending this Elementary school and I already knew the kids loved to visit the MC because of this welcoming and caring MS. The MS is the epitome of what an elementary MS needs to aspire. Classes were steadily streaming into the MC throughout the morning hours. The MS read aloud to several classes - 3rd grade and up he read a chapter book and the younger students were treated to an excellent picture book. The set-up of an elementary MC is quite different from a middle or high-school MC. Because of the differing ability levels in an elementary school, there is a need for different sections - particularly a primary and secondary section which is further broken down into sections. Other than that difference, the day-to-day administrative duties of an elementary MS are similar to those of the other levels and that is to focus on the needs of the students! This was a great experience and one I highly enjoyed. The atmosphere was welcoming and friendly and I could tell the students and teacher genuinely felt welcome at this MC.
Thursday, Nov. 4, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 260.5 Hours
Practicum Observation
I was very excited today to present my UBD lesson to a group of 8th graders as we begin a unit on GA Authors. Of course, I get excited anytime I get to use technology to teach a lesson! I stumbled a little with some technical difficulties when a movie clip from NSteens.org could not be heard over the projection speakers (we are still trying to figure out what happened to our sound system!). I began the unit teaching students about the district's AUP policy. I wasn't surprised when 95% of the students had no clue that they had ever seen or signed an agreement dealing with the use of technology at school. I used a Prezi to present Doug Johnson's 3P's of Internet safety - Privacy, Property, and aPpropriate Use. The students then completed a Internet Behavior Survey. The entire unit can be located in my online Portfolio on the Instructional Partner wiki page. The students ended the session by playing in the 'sandbox' on the wiki I set up for this Unit. The students were very responsive and I thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with the 8th grade reading teacher. This experience has given me the confidence to continue collaboration efforts with other teachers who may at first be skeptical.
I was very excited today to present my UBD lesson to a group of 8th graders as we begin a unit on GA Authors. Of course, I get excited anytime I get to use technology to teach a lesson! I stumbled a little with some technical difficulties when a movie clip from NSteens.org could not be heard over the projection speakers (we are still trying to figure out what happened to our sound system!). I began the unit teaching students about the district's AUP policy. I wasn't surprised when 95% of the students had no clue that they had ever seen or signed an agreement dealing with the use of technology at school. I used a Prezi to present Doug Johnson's 3P's of Internet safety - Privacy, Property, and aPpropriate Use. The students then completed a Internet Behavior Survey. The entire unit can be located in my online Portfolio on the Instructional Partner wiki page. The students ended the session by playing in the 'sandbox' on the wiki I set up for this Unit. The students were very responsive and I thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with the 8th grade reading teacher. This experience has given me the confidence to continue collaboration efforts with other teachers who may at first be skeptical.
GAETC Conference
The three concurrent sessions I attended were quite different. The first session was about creativity and how to use the Internet's resources to spark creativity. The information from that presenter can be found at www.drhowie.com. The 2nd session was about blogging - kind of what I am doing now! I did learn how to send images directly to my blog from my Iphone via email (see picture of my conference badge above). I also learned about some new features of blogger which were very helpful. The presenter for the Google blog was Tammy Worcester and her website with tons of information is found at www.tammyworcester.com. The final concurrent session I attended was about Googlebots and the new tools available by Google. There was a wealth of information, but I felt as though I wanted more connections to educational instruction. The presenter for the Googlebots session was Patrick Crispin and his information can be found at http://netsquirrel.com/.
Nov. 2, 2010 (3.5 hrs) - Running Total: 253 Hours
Busy...
Today was a busy day in the MC. We had sixth graders coming in to check out books, 7th graders working on book wordles, and 8th graders working on their group debate projects. I worked hard for those 3.5 hours! I love a busy MC and today was one of those days. I did make an observation today about the 'digital divide'. In one class, we had several students who were completely capable of the wordle activity which included a mult-step process - all on the computer with screenshots, powerpoint, uploading into Google docs...etc. On the other hand, we had several students who were barely able to remember how to open and save word documents. I can certainly see the challenge involved with bridging that divide; frankly, I am surprised the divide was as big as it was in this particular school/demographic area!
Today was a busy day in the MC. We had sixth graders coming in to check out books, 7th graders working on book wordles, and 8th graders working on their group debate projects. I worked hard for those 3.5 hours! I love a busy MC and today was one of those days. I did make an observation today about the 'digital divide'. In one class, we had several students who were completely capable of the wordle activity which included a mult-step process - all on the computer with screenshots, powerpoint, uploading into Google docs...etc. On the other hand, we had several students who were barely able to remember how to open and save word documents. I can certainly see the challenge involved with bridging that divide; frankly, I am surprised the divide was as big as it was in this particular school/demographic area!
Monday, Nov. 1, 2010 (7.5 hrs.) - Running Total: 249.5 Hours
Final Preparation for MS as Instructional Partner
The morning portion of the day was spent repairing books. Those book repair piles sure do stack up quick! I also assisted the MS in a teaching lesson using Wordle. The kids really seemed to enjoy this lesson. They used wordle to post information about the current book they were reading. The words that made up the wordle included the title, author, plot, characters, quotes, favorite words, and genre. The wordles from each student will be combined in a presentation that will run on the media center's Mac.
In the afternoon, I went into the 8th grade classes I will be teaching for my MS as Instructional Partner unit. I conducted some pre-grouping of students so that I could get the entered into the wiki for usernames and passwords.
The morning portion of the day was spent repairing books. Those book repair piles sure do stack up quick! I also assisted the MS in a teaching lesson using Wordle. The kids really seemed to enjoy this lesson. They used wordle to post information about the current book they were reading. The words that made up the wordle included the title, author, plot, characters, quotes, favorite words, and genre. The wordles from each student will be combined in a presentation that will run on the media center's Mac.
In the afternoon, I went into the 8th grade classes I will be teaching for my MS as Instructional Partner unit. I conducted some pre-grouping of students so that I could get the entered into the wiki for usernames and passwords.
Thursday, Oct. 28 (1 hr; 4 hrs HS) - Running Total: 242
Follett Export and Ordering
Today I spent one hour at my base practicum school and then headed to one of my secondary schools. While at the secondary school, I assisted a teacher in creating a Google form. The teacher was using the form to post discussion questions for her students to answer. Many of the teachers do not know how to use the Google App system installed by the county and have not had any training. I have had to opportunity to use Google Apps for a few years and am able to use teach-able moments to help both teachers and students overcome obstacles and move into the digital world of cloud computing with Google Apps. The second thing I did today was export the MC Marc records to Follett Titlewave. This was done so that we could see any gaps in titles the MC may or many not have. While many of the titles are older than suggested, there seems to be very few gaps in this MC's collection. We did briefly look at suggested titles, but found that to be somewhat overwhelming. We also discussed how some of the resources would be outdated very soon after purchase, so the decision was made to look for online resources that would meet the same or similar needs.
Today I spent one hour at my base practicum school and then headed to one of my secondary schools. While at the secondary school, I assisted a teacher in creating a Google form. The teacher was using the form to post discussion questions for her students to answer. Many of the teachers do not know how to use the Google App system installed by the county and have not had any training. I have had to opportunity to use Google Apps for a few years and am able to use teach-able moments to help both teachers and students overcome obstacles and move into the digital world of cloud computing with Google Apps. The second thing I did today was export the MC Marc records to Follett Titlewave. This was done so that we could see any gaps in titles the MC may or many not have. While many of the titles are older than suggested, there seems to be very few gaps in this MC's collection. We did briefly look at suggested titles, but found that to be somewhat overwhelming. We also discussed how some of the resources would be outdated very soon after purchase, so the decision was made to look for online resources that would meet the same or similar needs.
Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2010 (2 hrs) - Running Total: 237 hours
Discussion with MS about MS as leader presentation.
My mentor MS was very pleased with my presentation on Monday. We discussed some of the events surrounding the meeting and other issues effecting the implementation of a district-wide comprehensive move to collaboration. There seem to be many factors at play with the movement to more collaboration among students and teachers. Friction from certain individuals in the county office may make it more challenging to implement the AASL standards dealing with full collaboration when using technology. It is a sad state of affairs, but one that needs the disposition of preserverence and not an attitude of despair.
My mentor MS was very pleased with my presentation on Monday. We discussed some of the events surrounding the meeting and other issues effecting the implementation of a district-wide comprehensive move to collaboration. There seem to be many factors at play with the movement to more collaboration among students and teachers. Friction from certain individuals in the county office may make it more challenging to implement the AASL standards dealing with full collaboration when using technology. It is a sad state of affairs, but one that needs the disposition of preserverence and not an attitude of despair.
Monday, Oct. 25, 2010 (7 hrs) - Running Total: 235 hours
MS as Leader
I performed regular circulation desk procedures during the morning hours and then headed to the county office for the quarterly MS meeting. I was the last presenter in the meeting and taught the MS as Leader lesson for the practicum. This lesson consisted of an overview of Web2.0 technologies being taught to MS candidates at GSU. The main part of the lesson was two-part. Part of the lesson focused on the instructional technology applications of the county's adopted Google App domain. Within this portion of the lesson, I provided reasoning behind the reason why Google Apps was a step forward in meeting the AASL and ISTE standards. The second half of the lesson consisted of teaching the MS how to use the collaborative and organization tools of Google documents so that they could then pass that knowledge on to teachers and students. The presentation was a success and I am relieved that it went so well! I have since provided instruction to several teachers one-on-one regarding other Google App tools.
I performed regular circulation desk procedures during the morning hours and then headed to the county office for the quarterly MS meeting. I was the last presenter in the meeting and taught the MS as Leader lesson for the practicum. This lesson consisted of an overview of Web2.0 technologies being taught to MS candidates at GSU. The main part of the lesson was two-part. Part of the lesson focused on the instructional technology applications of the county's adopted Google App domain. Within this portion of the lesson, I provided reasoning behind the reason why Google Apps was a step forward in meeting the AASL and ISTE standards. The second half of the lesson consisted of teaching the MS how to use the collaborative and organization tools of Google documents so that they could then pass that knowledge on to teachers and students. The presentation was a success and I am relieved that it went so well! I have since provided instruction to several teachers one-on-one regarding other Google App tools.
Thursday, Oct. 21, 2010 (4 hrs) - Running Total: 228 Hours
Today was an average day in the media center. I assisted with circulation procedures and observed 8th grade classes using the computers and media center database resources to research topics for an upcoming debate unit. The main resource students were observed using were Google search and the school-purchased GaleNet database - specifically the opposing viewpoints portion of the database. These classes will continue to utilize the media center over the next several weeks as they work on their debates. In addition, I was able to speak with the teacher I am collaborating with for my practicum unit on GA Authors. She seemed excited about this unit even though she rarely infuses technology within her units.
Monday, Oct. 18, 2010 (4 hrs) - Running Total: 216
Morning Announcements featuring Booktalks
This morning the first of five of the booktalks was presented in conjunction with my planned reading enrichment unit. Reflection upon the unit: The unit has received much enthusiasm by the administration and staff. I would undertake some of the steps differently when I repeat this unit. I would, periodically throughout the year, ask individual students to give booktalks. I would record these booktalks and build up a library of booktalks and store them on the school's server for later use. During the Teen Read Week (or another week depending on age level), I would play a booktalk each day of the week on the morning announcements. Otherwise, I would sporadically plug in a booktalk every 3-4 weeks on the morning announcement as space/time allows. I would also show students previous examples of booktalks and the length of written text needed to create a short, 1-minute talk. Most students feared they would have to write pages of a summary to make the booktalk 1 minute in length, when in actuality, it requires only one paragraph. The survey portion of the booktalk was fun and I believe the students and staff enjoyed finding out which books made the school's top ten list.
This morning the first of five of the booktalks was presented in conjunction with my planned reading enrichment unit. Reflection upon the unit: The unit has received much enthusiasm by the administration and staff. I would undertake some of the steps differently when I repeat this unit. I would, periodically throughout the year, ask individual students to give booktalks. I would record these booktalks and build up a library of booktalks and store them on the school's server for later use. During the Teen Read Week (or another week depending on age level), I would play a booktalk each day of the week on the morning announcements. Otherwise, I would sporadically plug in a booktalk every 3-4 weeks on the morning announcement as space/time allows. I would also show students previous examples of booktalks and the length of written text needed to create a short, 1-minute talk. Most students feared they would have to write pages of a summary to make the booktalk 1 minute in length, when in actuality, it requires only one paragraph. The survey portion of the booktalk was fun and I believe the students and staff enjoyed finding out which books made the school's top ten list.
Monday, Oct. 11, 2010 (6.5 hrs)- Running Total: 212 Hours
Reading Enrichment Unit Continues...
Once again I was 'stood up' by my booktalk participants. After having a short pity party for myself, I engaged in one of those MS dispositions called perseverance and hunted down my students. Both students later showed up in the day after having forgotten our pre-planned meeting time. They were both prepared for the booktalks which were fabulous! In addition, the survey for the BMMS Top Ten Teen Read books is officially underway after guiding several students to the link in which they successfully voted for their favorite book! Mass voting will occur over the next three days from all three grade levels. I will compile this information on Friday (a teacher work day) and prepare the final electronic presentation for this unit. The final presentation will be looped on the Mac display computer as well as booktalks run on the morning announcements through-out the week of October 18-22.
Collaboration with the 8th grade reading teacher for the collaborative unit lesson began today. A decision was made to incorporate the GPS standards regarding Georgia authors with student produced wikis. I am excited about this unit, but am unsure of how much I will be able to actually teach due to time constraints. However, I will present the unit with as much flair and gusto I can muster to show how great collaborating with a MS can be!
Once again I was 'stood up' by my booktalk participants. After having a short pity party for myself, I engaged in one of those MS dispositions called perseverance and hunted down my students. Both students later showed up in the day after having forgotten our pre-planned meeting time. They were both prepared for the booktalks which were fabulous! In addition, the survey for the BMMS Top Ten Teen Read books is officially underway after guiding several students to the link in which they successfully voted for their favorite book! Mass voting will occur over the next three days from all three grade levels. I will compile this information on Friday (a teacher work day) and prepare the final electronic presentation for this unit. The final presentation will be looped on the Mac display computer as well as booktalks run on the morning announcements through-out the week of October 18-22.
Collaboration with the 8th grade reading teacher for the collaborative unit lesson began today. A decision was made to incorporate the GPS standards regarding Georgia authors with student produced wikis. I am excited about this unit, but am unsure of how much I will be able to actually teach due to time constraints. However, I will present the unit with as much flair and gusto I can muster to show how great collaborating with a MS can be!
Friday, Oct. 8, 2010 (4 hrs) - Running Total- 205.5
Continuing Booktalk Reading Enrichment Activity...
Today I was able to videotape the third student for the reading enrichment unit. This unit has required much more work than anticipated, but the learning curve is about over and I feel that if I were to undertake this project again - perhaps as an ongoing part of my media program- I would have this streamlined in no time. Discussion again occurred with the MS pertaining to the upcoming observed Practicum lesson. We have thrown back and forth a few ideas, but have yet to nail down and specific areas. One potential snag came when we both realized that the week of the observation was the main field trip week for all grade levels. Luckily, only 1/3 of the 8th grade classes will be gone during that week; therefore, leaving the remaining 2/3rds for my lesson. In addition to planning while at my practicum site, I continue to man the circulation desk, perform book-shelving and book-repair duties, and offer assistance to students.
I love my job! It is not even a 'true' job yet!
Today I was able to videotape the third student for the reading enrichment unit. This unit has required much more work than anticipated, but the learning curve is about over and I feel that if I were to undertake this project again - perhaps as an ongoing part of my media program- I would have this streamlined in no time. Discussion again occurred with the MS pertaining to the upcoming observed Practicum lesson. We have thrown back and forth a few ideas, but have yet to nail down and specific areas. One potential snag came when we both realized that the week of the observation was the main field trip week for all grade levels. Luckily, only 1/3 of the 8th grade classes will be gone during that week; therefore, leaving the remaining 2/3rds for my lesson. In addition to planning while at my practicum site, I continue to man the circulation desk, perform book-shelving and book-repair duties, and offer assistance to students.
I love my job! It is not even a 'true' job yet!
Wed. Oct. 6, 2010 (4 HS hrs) - Running Total: 201.5
Weeding
Today I helped weed part of the computer/technology (003/004/005) section and the Social Science sections, specifically the 320's-328's. We were able to narrow down which areas to weed using the Follett collection analysis program. We then went book by book to look for relevance and ended up weeding all the computer/technology books which were outdated by at lease 15 years. We were also able to weed approximately 1/3 of the 320-328 section because of outdated information. I must admit that while looking for relevance within the texts, I became swept up in reading the books and was amazed by how much and by how little some things have changed. I wonder if everyone has this problem when weeding? I was also shocked by how long ago the last check-outs were on these books (10 or more years since the last check-out) - some of the books had never been checked out and were virtually brand new! The process took us approximately 3 hours to weed through about 200 books. This was just the beginning of the weeding process for this high school MC which has an average collection age of 1986.
I was also able to briefly speak with the history teacher I am collaborating with for the 11th grade historical figure unit. It is apparent that he feels bad to not be able to give me more time. I am beginning to see that many teachers are apprehensive to letting others teach their classes and some teachers have no idea what we, as MS, even really can or are capable of doing! This is when those dispositions of a MS need to kick in!
Today I helped weed part of the computer/technology (003/004/005) section and the Social Science sections, specifically the 320's-328's. We were able to narrow down which areas to weed using the Follett collection analysis program. We then went book by book to look for relevance and ended up weeding all the computer/technology books which were outdated by at lease 15 years. We were also able to weed approximately 1/3 of the 320-328 section because of outdated information. I must admit that while looking for relevance within the texts, I became swept up in reading the books and was amazed by how much and by how little some things have changed. I wonder if everyone has this problem when weeding? I was also shocked by how long ago the last check-outs were on these books (10 or more years since the last check-out) - some of the books had never been checked out and were virtually brand new! The process took us approximately 3 hours to weed through about 200 books. This was just the beginning of the weeding process for this high school MC which has an average collection age of 1986.
I was also able to briefly speak with the history teacher I am collaborating with for the 11th grade historical figure unit. It is apparent that he feels bad to not be able to give me more time. I am beginning to see that many teachers are apprehensive to letting others teach their classes and some teachers have no idea what we, as MS, even really can or are capable of doing! This is when those dispositions of a MS need to kick in!
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 197.5 Hours
The Reading Enrichment Unit continues...
Spent a majority of the day locating and tracking down students for the video booktalk reading enrichment unit. I set up a few before school meetings after having to practically beg students to agree to do a booktalk! These kids are busy! I feel bad that they are so busy that they don't even have time to read or write a short paragraph for a booktalk. I am hoping and praying these students meet with me before school on Thursday and Friday. I need to have all the booktalks video-taped and edited by mid next week. I believe this entire unit is much more difficult than anticipated. The reason for the difficulty stems from my not being immersed in the school on a constant/daily basis; therefore, I am not able to see all the students. I was able to videotape one student's booktalk on The Ruins of Gorlan - this student just happened to be my son!
Spent a majority of the day locating and tracking down students for the video booktalk reading enrichment unit. I set up a few before school meetings after having to practically beg students to agree to do a booktalk! These kids are busy! I feel bad that they are so busy that they don't even have time to read or write a short paragraph for a booktalk. I am hoping and praying these students meet with me before school on Thursday and Friday. I need to have all the booktalks video-taped and edited by mid next week. I believe this entire unit is much more difficult than anticipated. The reason for the difficulty stems from my not being immersed in the school on a constant/daily basis; therefore, I am not able to see all the students. I was able to videotape one student's booktalk on The Ruins of Gorlan - this student just happened to be my son!
Monday, Oct. 4, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 190 Hours
Due date for booktalk forms from students....
And only one student (out of 30) turned in the forms. I was a little frustrated and decided to go to plan B. Plan B consists of calling on individual students to present booktalks. This was a valuable lesson learned! I have learned that you must speak to each child personally and explain what you want - even though I handed out a form. I think I may have enough students to complete my booktalk unit and keep diversity in genre. Hopefully this week will get better.
I also moved forward with the collaborative unit for the high school history teacher. Originally, I had two days to teach this unit. Now I have one class period! He felt that my teaching his kids was taking away from his valuable teaching time. I guess I am getting firsthand knowledge on what it feels like to try and collaborate with teachers who feel stretched to the max. I will do the best I can with one day even though I will not be able to fit in all the content for the entire unit I need to complete for my reference class. There is opportunity for me to possibly teach the same students at a later date and time.
And only one student (out of 30) turned in the forms. I was a little frustrated and decided to go to plan B. Plan B consists of calling on individual students to present booktalks. This was a valuable lesson learned! I have learned that you must speak to each child personally and explain what you want - even though I handed out a form. I think I may have enough students to complete my booktalk unit and keep diversity in genre. Hopefully this week will get better.
I also moved forward with the collaborative unit for the high school history teacher. Originally, I had two days to teach this unit. Now I have one class period! He felt that my teaching his kids was taking away from his valuable teaching time. I guess I am getting firsthand knowledge on what it feels like to try and collaborate with teachers who feel stretched to the max. I will do the best I can with one day even though I will not be able to fit in all the content for the entire unit I need to complete for my reference class. There is opportunity for me to possibly teach the same students at a later date and time.
Friday, Oct. 1, 2010 (4 hrs) - Runnning Total: 182.5 Hours
Continuation of MS as 'Leader' unit:
I continued to work on the staff development unit as well as performed everyday library services. Book repair was a big item on our list- how in the world do books get damaged so fast? It feels as though we are constantly tending to book repairs. In this day and age of budget cuts, it is important to repair books and keep them in circulation for as long as possible!
I continued to work on the staff development unit as well as performed everyday library services. Book repair was a big item on our list- how in the world do books get damaged so fast? It feels as though we are constantly tending to book repairs. In this day and age of budget cuts, it is important to repair books and keep them in circulation for as long as possible!
Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010 (4 hrs) - Running Total: 178.5 Hours
MS as a 'Leader' Unit
I continued to put together the idea for the staff development lesson. To date, I am working on a Google Doc presentation but have a lot more work to get it completed. I believe my time limit will be 45 minutes to an hour and will consist of hands-on training. I am excited to teach this unit, but also realize that some of the MS may already know this information, but I believe there will also be many who will not! My hope is that I am able to correctly portray the importance of colleague and student collaboration.
I continued to put together the idea for the staff development lesson. To date, I am working on a Google Doc presentation but have a lot more work to get it completed. I believe my time limit will be 45 minutes to an hour and will consist of hands-on training. I am excited to teach this unit, but also realize that some of the MS may already know this information, but I believe there will also be many who will not! My hope is that I am able to correctly portray the importance of colleague and student collaboration.
Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2010 (7.5 hrs) Running Total: 174.5 Hours
Manifesto for the 21st Century:
Today the MS and I discussed Joyce Valenza's Manifesto for 21st Century School Librarians. We also set up an outline for what would be discussed at the October 25th county MS meeting in which I will be presenting a staff development lesson titled 'In the Cloud'. This will be a tutorial on how to incorporate the county adopted Google system into collaborative units with teachers. This unit will also focus on educational benefits of using Google docs to collaborate among colleagues as well as the benefits for student collaborative use. In addition to the above planning, I assisted in the everyday running of the Media Center.
Today the MS and I discussed Joyce Valenza's Manifesto for 21st Century School Librarians. We also set up an outline for what would be discussed at the October 25th county MS meeting in which I will be presenting a staff development lesson titled 'In the Cloud'. This will be a tutorial on how to incorporate the county adopted Google system into collaborative units with teachers. This unit will also focus on educational benefits of using Google docs to collaborate among colleagues as well as the benefits for student collaborative use. In addition to the above planning, I assisted in the everyday running of the Media Center.
Monday, Sept. 27, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 167 Hours
Continuation of Reading Enrichment Unit:
Received approval from the assistant principal to move ahead with the reading enrichment unit which includes booktalks given by the students to be aired over the morning announcements during the week of October 18, 2020. I am titling this unit - BMMS Teen Read Week 2010.
Below is a copy of the document handed out to students who have volunteered to give book talks.
Below is the general plan for the BMMS Teen Read Week 2010
Received approval from the assistant principal to move ahead with the reading enrichment unit which includes booktalks given by the students to be aired over the morning announcements during the week of October 18, 2020. I am titling this unit - BMMS Teen Read Week 2010.
Below is a copy of the document handed out to students who have volunteered to give book talks.
Below is the general plan for the BMMS Teen Read Week 2010
Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010 (4 HS hours) - Running Total: 159.5 Hours
OPAC (Destiny) + Follett Titlewave = Very Useful Reports
Another bustling day of activity at the high school media center. There are always a slew of classes coming in and out - one definitely gets the vibe that they are welcome here! Working toward a goal of weeding the media center's collection in the upcoming weeks, the MS set out to run a collection age report. Interestingly, the entire collection can be exported to Follett's Titlewave which in turn can generate some extremely useful reports in a matter of minutes! The average age of this school's particular collection (of almost 16,000 titles) was 1986! I don't mean to sound like I am trying to be trite, but I was 14 in 1986! Anyways, the report went so far as to break down each Dewey category and let us know what the age of the collection should be for the various topics. As you can imagine, some of the non-fiction section is severely out of date - such as technology, social sciences, genetics, and planetary resources. Now the process of looking at each individual 'out-of-date' book begins to determine what might still be relevant and what can be weeded out in order to make room for more current titles.
Another bustling day of activity at the high school media center. There are always a slew of classes coming in and out - one definitely gets the vibe that they are welcome here! Working toward a goal of weeding the media center's collection in the upcoming weeks, the MS set out to run a collection age report. Interestingly, the entire collection can be exported to Follett's Titlewave which in turn can generate some extremely useful reports in a matter of minutes! The average age of this school's particular collection (of almost 16,000 titles) was 1986! I don't mean to sound like I am trying to be trite, but I was 14 in 1986! Anyways, the report went so far as to break down each Dewey category and let us know what the age of the collection should be for the various topics. As you can imagine, some of the non-fiction section is severely out of date - such as technology, social sciences, genetics, and planetary resources. Now the process of looking at each individual 'out-of-date' book begins to determine what might still be relevant and what can be weeded out in order to make room for more current titles.
Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 155.5 Hours
More Book Repair - the 'Never Ending Story'
Today, just as I got caught up on repairing books, a few more came in! It is amazing to me that books are so fragile. I am not sure of the exact number, but apparently a school library book can expect to circulate an average of 10 times before needing to be replaced?!? In other news, I am continuing to prepare and plan for my school-wide reading enrichment unit which involves student videotaped book talks, the morning announcements, an online survey, and an electronic display. A lot of planning goes into these things!
Today, just as I got caught up on repairing books, a few more came in! It is amazing to me that books are so fragile. I am not sure of the exact number, but apparently a school library book can expect to circulate an average of 10 times before needing to be replaced?!? In other news, I am continuing to prepare and plan for my school-wide reading enrichment unit which involves student videotaped book talks, the morning announcements, an online survey, and an electronic display. A lot of planning goes into these things!
Monday, Sept. 20, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 148 Hours
Copyright Discussions and Evaluating Websites Lesson
Today the MS and I discussed Copyright issues- most of which are as clear as 'mud' to me. I find Copyright a difficult issue to master and feel that in order to be well-versed in the laws of Copyright, one would require a degree in law. I also taught two classes of 6th graders how to evaluate websites using a modified version of the C.A.R.S method by Robert Harris and Andrew Spinks. I created a Prezi for the lesson, as well as a checklist. Upon reflection, I feel the lesson was a few levels too difficult for 6th graders. If I were to teach this lesson to 6th graders again, I would show the Prezi -perhaps shortening it somewhat. I would leave out the evaluation checklist for 6th graders, but keep it for 7th or possibly 8th graders; therefore, scaffolding the lessons. I perceive this lesson as a learning experience and now understand better the meaning of flexibility and self-evaluation in terms of planning.r
Today the MS and I discussed Copyright issues- most of which are as clear as 'mud' to me. I find Copyright a difficult issue to master and feel that in order to be well-versed in the laws of Copyright, one would require a degree in law. I also taught two classes of 6th graders how to evaluate websites using a modified version of the C.A.R.S method by Robert Harris and Andrew Spinks. I created a Prezi for the lesson, as well as a checklist. Upon reflection, I feel the lesson was a few levels too difficult for 6th graders. If I were to teach this lesson to 6th graders again, I would show the Prezi -perhaps shortening it somewhat. I would leave out the evaluation checklist for 6th graders, but keep it for 7th or possibly 8th graders; therefore, scaffolding the lessons. I perceive this lesson as a learning experience and now understand better the meaning of flexibility and self-evaluation in terms of planning.r
Friday, Sept. 17, 2010 (4.5 hrs)- Running Total: 140.5 Hours
Reading Enrichment Unit Finalization Planning and Effective Use of Technology Unit Pre-Planning
Continued to finalize plans for a whole school reading enrichment week which includes student booktalks, an electronic display, and a school's top ten teen book list created by having students vote via an online survey. MS and I decided that my 'Leader' lesson will be to teach the district's media specialists how to set up their Google Documents- including spreadsheet uses and possibly Google Sites. Google, an 'In the Cloud' application, was adopted by the county as a resource to help build collaborative efforts among students and teachers as well as reduce paper costs.
Continued to finalize plans for a whole school reading enrichment week which includes student booktalks, an electronic display, and a school's top ten teen book list created by having students vote via an online survey. MS and I decided that my 'Leader' lesson will be to teach the district's media specialists how to set up their Google Documents- including spreadsheet uses and possibly Google Sites. Google, an 'In the Cloud' application, was adopted by the county as a resource to help build collaborative efforts among students and teachers as well as reduce paper costs.
Friday, Sept. 16, 2010 (5 hrs) - Running Total: 136 Hours
Further evaluation of Reference Materials
After several failed attempts at completing an evaluation of the reference materials due to a well-stocked reference section, I decided to re-evaluate my area of focus. Upon telling the MS she had an excellent reference section, she pointed me toward a few items which she wished she had more funds to add to the reference collection. One of which is reference books on Ancient Civilizations and the other is the ever changing section on Technology. Those two subjects will be my focus for my Reference Collection Evaluation assignment.
After several failed attempts at completing an evaluation of the reference materials due to a well-stocked reference section, I decided to re-evaluate my area of focus. Upon telling the MS she had an excellent reference section, she pointed me toward a few items which she wished she had more funds to add to the reference collection. One of which is reference books on Ancient Civilizations and the other is the ever changing section on Technology. Those two subjects will be my focus for my Reference Collection Evaluation assignment.
Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2010 (7.5 hours) - Running Total: 131 Hours
PTO Meeting and continued work on Web 2.0 App - Google Sites
This morning I attended the first PTO meeting of the year. The MS was the featured speaker and was asked to highlight some of the databases available to the children inside and outside of school. In addition, the MS was asked to provide a brief overview of the Google system that is now being mandated at the district level. I assisted the MS by manning the computer controls for the Presentation portion and also attended as a Parent since my own child attends this school. After the meeting, I continued to work on the Google Sites presentation that I am putting together as part of my upcoming collaborative unit for the high school that is my secondary site. The teacher would like the students to be able to upload or embed video into their presentations, but it appears that this will not occur due to filters and other restrictions placed on Internet and server access at the district level. Originally the teacher wanted to use PPT, but I had him convinced to try out one of the new Web 2.0 or 'In The Cloud' applications; however, the standard PPT may be a better option for this situation.
This morning I attended the first PTO meeting of the year. The MS was the featured speaker and was asked to highlight some of the databases available to the children inside and outside of school. In addition, the MS was asked to provide a brief overview of the Google system that is now being mandated at the district level. I assisted the MS by manning the computer controls for the Presentation portion and also attended as a Parent since my own child attends this school. After the meeting, I continued to work on the Google Sites presentation that I am putting together as part of my upcoming collaborative unit for the high school that is my secondary site. The teacher would like the students to be able to upload or embed video into their presentations, but it appears that this will not occur due to filters and other restrictions placed on Internet and server access at the district level. Originally the teacher wanted to use PPT, but I had him convinced to try out one of the new Web 2.0 or 'In The Cloud' applications; however, the standard PPT may be a better option for this situation.
Monday, Sept. 13, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 123.5 hours
Prezi and other Web 2.0 Applications
The MS and I made a call to the district Tech person to try and figure out a way to embed or upload video content into any of the available Web 2.0 applications that are available to us (as in, those that are not blocked). While we were able to add video from a few resources with video, this would be a very difficult task for a student to accomplish without many steps - including downloading (which students cannot do on their own drives), converting files to files that are accepted by the various applications, and being locked from major video hosting services like YouTube. The Tech guys suggestion was to provide links in lieu of embedding video (sigh). We also discussed and attempted to create a movie/slideshow using Microsoft Movie Maker, but when it came time to convert the file formats using an online program, the students would not be able to download the newly converted file to their computers, therefore creating a no win situation.
Other tasks today included reconfiguring a Prezi presentation for a PTO meeting that will be held on Tuesday.
The MS and I made a call to the district Tech person to try and figure out a way to embed or upload video content into any of the available Web 2.0 applications that are available to us (as in, those that are not blocked). While we were able to add video from a few resources with video, this would be a very difficult task for a student to accomplish without many steps - including downloading (which students cannot do on their own drives), converting files to files that are accepted by the various applications, and being locked from major video hosting services like YouTube. The Tech guys suggestion was to provide links in lieu of embedding video (sigh). We also discussed and attempted to create a movie/slideshow using Microsoft Movie Maker, but when it came time to convert the file formats using an online program, the students would not be able to download the newly converted file to their computers, therefore creating a no win situation.
Other tasks today included reconfiguring a Prezi presentation for a PTO meeting that will be held on Tuesday.
Thursday, Sept. 9 (3 HS hrs) - Running Total: 113 hours
Collaboration Meeting with 11th Grade History Teacher
Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010 (3 HS hrs) - Running Total: 102.5
Visit to High School Media Center -
I spent three hours at a local high school media center today. The MS was friendly and welcoming and eager to share what she knew about being a high school MS. Due to recent budget cuts, the high schools in our area went from two MS to one MS plus a parapro. During my visit, there were a total of four classes scheduled to visit the media center at one time! Luckily, the size of this MC was able to accommodate a significant number of students granted they weren't all going to need access to a computer. One class was viewing a video on the projection screen, another was working at the computers on an English assignment, the third and fourth classes were combined of two English classes and needed the area to work on collaborative group projects. The MS asked a 9th grade English teacher what they felt students were lacking in terms of information literacy when arriving at secondary school. The English teacher responded that students seemed to lack the ability to conduct effective Internet searches in regard to locating and evaluating information pertained through search tools such as Google. The MS and I also discussed varying Web 2.0 tools and discovered that many tools were blocked at the district level.
I spent three hours at a local high school media center today. The MS was friendly and welcoming and eager to share what she knew about being a high school MS. Due to recent budget cuts, the high schools in our area went from two MS to one MS plus a parapro. During my visit, there were a total of four classes scheduled to visit the media center at one time! Luckily, the size of this MC was able to accommodate a significant number of students granted they weren't all going to need access to a computer. One class was viewing a video on the projection screen, another was working at the computers on an English assignment, the third and fourth classes were combined of two English classes and needed the area to work on collaborative group projects. The MS asked a 9th grade English teacher what they felt students were lacking in terms of information literacy when arriving at secondary school. The English teacher responded that students seemed to lack the ability to conduct effective Internet searches in regard to locating and evaluating information pertained through search tools such as Google. The MS and I also discussed varying Web 2.0 tools and discovered that many tools were blocked at the district level.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 99.5 Hours
Planning for Instructional Partner Teaching Unit
The Media Specialist was being utilized most of the day to teach staff how to navigate Google Docs. Therefore, I spent a majority of the day helping with a variety of tasks with running the media center - mostly helping our parent volunteers and students with their varying needs. In addition, I was able to begin the pre-planning portion of my teaching unit by narrowing the area of focus. Much of what I have completed to date consists of informal observation regarding the way students are conducting research within our media center (Google vs. other search engines and the Gale database). The research habits of the students to date lead me to believe that they are not yet able to efficiently and effectively evaluate online resources outside of the school's database and teacher approved sites. Because state testing has very few questions pertinent to this area of 21st century learning, I intend to gather information by polling the teachers and students using a Google Poll to confirm that this is an area of concern or need. In anticipation that the poll will result in the students not having the skills necessary to efficiently and correctly evaluate such websites, I compiled a list of the standards (using the AASL Standards for the 21st Century Learner in Action) that need to be addressed within my lesson.
The Media Specialist was being utilized most of the day to teach staff how to navigate Google Docs. Therefore, I spent a majority of the day helping with a variety of tasks with running the media center - mostly helping our parent volunteers and students with their varying needs. In addition, I was able to begin the pre-planning portion of my teaching unit by narrowing the area of focus. Much of what I have completed to date consists of informal observation regarding the way students are conducting research within our media center (Google vs. other search engines and the Gale database). The research habits of the students to date lead me to believe that they are not yet able to efficiently and effectively evaluate online resources outside of the school's database and teacher approved sites. Because state testing has very few questions pertinent to this area of 21st century learning, I intend to gather information by polling the teachers and students using a Google Poll to confirm that this is an area of concern or need. In anticipation that the poll will result in the students not having the skills necessary to efficiently and correctly evaluate such websites, I compiled a list of the standards (using the AASL Standards for the 21st Century Learner in Action) that need to be addressed within my lesson.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010 (7.5 hours) - Running Total: 92.5
Book Fair and Curriculum Night
Book Fair continues...
So far the popular books at the book fair are the Hunger Games Trilogy (a favorite of mine), The Lightning Thief series, and a book that contains words 'Yoda' and 'Origami'? Working the book fair has provided me with insight that I hope to one day be able to apply to my own media center. I also continued to look up reference books applicable to the Science curriculum (using the GPS as a point of reference) for sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. I believe I will be able to put my order together next week with regard to a few areas in the reference collection that may need some more reference resources. In addition to the above, I continue to work at the circulation desk and am enjoying getting to know the students and faculty! I also found a few minutes to cover a few of the books I processed last week so that they could be placed into circulation - hard to believe how busy we are and how many 'hats' the media specialist must wear!
Book Fair continues...
So far the popular books at the book fair are the Hunger Games Trilogy (a favorite of mine), The Lightning Thief series, and a book that contains words 'Yoda' and 'Origami'? Working the book fair has provided me with insight that I hope to one day be able to apply to my own media center. I also continued to look up reference books applicable to the Science curriculum (using the GPS as a point of reference) for sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. I believe I will be able to put my order together next week with regard to a few areas in the reference collection that may need some more reference resources. In addition to the above, I continue to work at the circulation desk and am enjoying getting to know the students and faculty! I also found a few minutes to cover a few of the books I processed last week so that they could be placed into circulation - hard to believe how busy we are and how many 'hats' the media specialist must wear!
Monday, August 30, 2010 (7.5 hrs) - Running Total: 85 Hours
Book Fair and Display Case:
Book Fair is in full swing with 7th graders coming to the media center today to preview the selection of books and other goods for sale. In addition, the principal asked the media center to create a display in one of the main display cases in preparation for tomorrow's curriculum night. A parent volunteer and I set forth creating a display featured around the upcoming Constitution Day on September 17. Part of the consisted of books that were related to the Constitution that I pulled and displayed in the case. Research on the Reference Collection Activity was conducted.
Book Fair is in full swing with 7th graders coming to the media center today to preview the selection of books and other goods for sale. In addition, the principal asked the media center to create a display in one of the main display cases in preparation for tomorrow's curriculum night. A parent volunteer and I set forth creating a display featured around the upcoming Constitution Day on September 17. Part of the consisted of books that were related to the Constitution that I pulled and displayed in the case. Research on the Reference Collection Activity was conducted.
Friday, August 27, 2010 (7 hrs) - Running Total: 77.5 Hours
Volunteer Orientation and Book Fair Set-Up:
Today the media specialist and the parapro presented volunteers with basic training. The media center relies heavily on parent volunteers to run the circulation desk and the re-shelving of books. This year I have been fortunate enough to be involved in helping set up the volunteer handbook as well as train new volunteers and provide support to returning volunteers. Today we also set up the Scholastic Book Fair program in the media center. This fund raiser is one of the main funding sources for the purchase of new books and other media center materials.
Today the media specialist and the parapro presented volunteers with basic training. The media center relies heavily on parent volunteers to run the circulation desk and the re-shelving of books. This year I have been fortunate enough to be involved in helping set up the volunteer handbook as well as train new volunteers and provide support to returning volunteers. Today we also set up the Scholastic Book Fair program in the media center. This fund raiser is one of the main funding sources for the purchase of new books and other media center materials.
Thursday, August 26, 2010 (4 hrs.) - Running Total: 70.5
Reading Enrichment Activity Planning and Reference Collection Activity:
I presented the initial idea for the reading enrichment/enjoyment activity to my mentor and received approval from Dr. Repman to alter the activity - making it school-wide in lieu of one class and focusing on the theme of Teen Read Week which occurs in October. I also began my review of the reference collection activity. Because this school was opened only three years ago, the reference materials are up to date and appear to be adequate in terms of meeting the needs of the curriculum as based on the Georgia Performance Standards. I will work on breaking down the primary content areas in the Science curriculum to further delineate what, if any, materials need to be added to the collection. In addition, I researched several grant resources - most of which were unfortunately not available at this time or did not apply to our school which has only a 5% low-income population.
I presented the initial idea for the reading enrichment/enjoyment activity to my mentor and received approval from Dr. Repman to alter the activity - making it school-wide in lieu of one class and focusing on the theme of Teen Read Week which occurs in October. I also began my review of the reference collection activity. Because this school was opened only three years ago, the reference materials are up to date and appear to be adequate in terms of meeting the needs of the curriculum as based on the Georgia Performance Standards. I will work on breaking down the primary content areas in the Science curriculum to further delineate what, if any, materials need to be added to the collection. In addition, I researched several grant resources - most of which were unfortunately not available at this time or did not apply to our school which has only a 5% low-income population.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010 (7.5 hrs.) - Running Total: 66.5 Hours
Cataloging:
As with most days, I assist the media center with circulation duties and help to oversee parent volunteers. Today I cataloged 10+ books into the card catalog program, Destiny. The books were purchased from various vendors through several different funding sources. The first step was to search for existing copies of the book within the system via the ISBN. If the book was found in the system and the media center had an existing record, then the record was duplicated. The book's barcode is then entered under the 'copies' page along with any changes to price and/or title details such as vendor and funding source. If the record is not found 'in house', then a cataloging resource is used to create a copy of the record-in this case, Alliance Plus by Follett. The barcode is then entered for that particular book along with the call number, vendor, and funding source. With both processes above, the record must then be saved. While the process seemed complicated at first, I am certain it is much easier than entering the Marc record manually while using Sears subject headings.
As with most days, I assist the media center with circulation duties and help to oversee parent volunteers. Today I cataloged 10+ books into the card catalog program, Destiny. The books were purchased from various vendors through several different funding sources. The first step was to search for existing copies of the book within the system via the ISBN. If the book was found in the system and the media center had an existing record, then the record was duplicated. The book's barcode is then entered under the 'copies' page along with any changes to price and/or title details such as vendor and funding source. If the record is not found 'in house', then a cataloging resource is used to create a copy of the record-in this case, Alliance Plus by Follett. The barcode is then entered for that particular book along with the call number, vendor, and funding source. With both processes above, the record must then be saved. While the process seemed complicated at first, I am certain it is much easier than entering the Marc record manually while using Sears subject headings.
Monday, August 23, 2010 (7 hrs) - Running Total: 59 Hours
District Media Specialist Meeting:
The morning hours consisted of observing the media specialist teaching 8th grade science classes on how to research science fair topics utilizing school resources, such as Destiny (card catalogue) and the district purchased Gale databases. After noon, we made our way to the county office for a district-wide media specialist meeting. My mentor is the lead media specialist for the county and therefore, was the main presenter.
The following topics were discussed:
The morning hours consisted of observing the media specialist teaching 8th grade science classes on how to research science fair topics utilizing school resources, such as Destiny (card catalogue) and the district purchased Gale databases. After noon, we made our way to the county office for a district-wide media specialist meeting. My mentor is the lead media specialist for the county and therefore, was the main presenter.
The following topics were discussed:
- New log-in procedures all faculty and students must know in order to use school computers
- The transition from Accelerated Reader to Reading Counts and issues associated with that transition including access to RC quizzes
- The new district-wide system of adopting Google Docs/Email as a method to better connect and collaborate among each other (teachers, admins, support staff, and students).
- Various topics dealing with technology issues and how the main server supports the new initiatives
- Common Core Standards and how those will mesh or replace GPS
- Upcoming events and noted organizations/websites that support media projects/advocacy such as Read for the Record, www.wegivebooks.org, www.archive.org, and International Literacy Day (Sept. 7).
Friday, August 20, 2010 (3.5 hrs.) - Running Total: 52 Hours
Everyday Duties:
Today mainly consisted of working the circulation desk (checking books in and out, assisting students with locating books, putting books on hold, re-shelving fiction and non-fiction materials). The media specialist, over the past few days, has spent numerous hours helping reading teachers set up various systems on their computers including SRI (Silent Reading Inventory) and trouble-shooting other software and hardware issues. It seems a media specialists job encompasses much more than just cataloging and dealing with print materials!
Today mainly consisted of working the circulation desk (checking books in and out, assisting students with locating books, putting books on hold, re-shelving fiction and non-fiction materials). The media specialist, over the past few days, has spent numerous hours helping reading teachers set up various systems on their computers including SRI (Silent Reading Inventory) and trouble-shooting other software and hardware issues. It seems a media specialists job encompasses much more than just cataloging and dealing with print materials!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010 (7.5 hrs.) - Running Total: 48.5 Hours
Grade Level Meeting:
This morning I attended a grade level meeting on Google Calendar. The school has recently converted from the old system to Google. For many of the teachers and staff, anything besides gmail and Google search is new to them. This new system is being implemented as a way to streamline communication by providing 'In the Cloud' Web 2.0 technologies as part of the 21st Century Technology initiative. Today's meeting was a brief overview on how to set up and share Google Calendars. The Media Center has a Google Calendar that can be accessed by everyone in the school for easy viewing (no one but the media specialist has editing rights). This should make it easier for teachers to keep track of when they are scheduled for the media center and to also see when times are available in which teachers can request whole class media services. In addition to the grade level meeting, I instructed a new parent volunteer on book check-ins and check-outs as well as book re-shelving. Book fair preparations were initiated with the completion of posters to be displayed throughout the school.
This morning I attended a grade level meeting on Google Calendar. The school has recently converted from the old system to Google. For many of the teachers and staff, anything besides gmail and Google search is new to them. This new system is being implemented as a way to streamline communication by providing 'In the Cloud' Web 2.0 technologies as part of the 21st Century Technology initiative. Today's meeting was a brief overview on how to set up and share Google Calendars. The Media Center has a Google Calendar that can be accessed by everyone in the school for easy viewing (no one but the media specialist has editing rights). This should make it easier for teachers to keep track of when they are scheduled for the media center and to also see when times are available in which teachers can request whole class media services. In addition to the grade level meeting, I instructed a new parent volunteer on book check-ins and check-outs as well as book re-shelving. Book fair preparations were initiated with the completion of posters to be displayed throughout the school.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010 (7.5 hrs.) - Running Total: 41 Hours
Installation of New Printer Driver:
Today I was charged with installing a new printer driver on the media center's computers. The technology teacher provided me with instructions and away I went! I also continued to work the circulation desk for 6th graders. Much of the circulation desk duties these first few weeks consisted of checking-out books and play-aways, putting books on hold, assisting students with finding books, and re-shelving returned books. I also helped repair a damaged book by using double-stitch book binding - which worked out marvelously. Over the past several years of volunteering bi-weekly at my host school, the paraprofessional has taught me book repair; however, this was our first encounter with the double-stitch binding.
Today I was charged with installing a new printer driver on the media center's computers. The technology teacher provided me with instructions and away I went! I also continued to work the circulation desk for 6th graders. Much of the circulation desk duties these first few weeks consisted of checking-out books and play-aways, putting books on hold, assisting students with finding books, and re-shelving returned books. I also helped repair a damaged book by using double-stitch book binding - which worked out marvelously. Over the past several years of volunteering bi-weekly at my host school, the paraprofessional has taught me book repair; however, this was our first encounter with the double-stitch binding.
Monday , August 16, 2010 (7.5 hrs.) - Running Total: 33.5 Hours
8th Grade Research Lesson-
Today I observed the media specialist teaching the 8th grade Science classes research skills. During the lesson, students were instructed on how to access the Destiny Quest card catalogue to search for books as well as web-sites linked to a specific topic - all within the card catalogue! Students were also directed on how to access and use the Gale database that is provided by the district (specifically the Science Resource Center portion of the database). Students were also shown how to access the MLA format for the books and web cites as provided by Destiny Quest - this was a great feature! A great feature for students regarding the Gale Database is the online access students can acquire from outside the school. Students use a school-wide password to access this database which can be found on the Media Center's website: Media Center Resource Page. Other duties included adding bar-coding to new books and preparing them for circulation as well as making labels for the media workroom.
Today I observed the media specialist teaching the 8th grade Science classes research skills. During the lesson, students were instructed on how to access the Destiny Quest card catalogue to search for books as well as web-sites linked to a specific topic - all within the card catalogue! Students were also directed on how to access and use the Gale database that is provided by the district (specifically the Science Resource Center portion of the database). Students were also shown how to access the MLA format for the books and web cites as provided by Destiny Quest - this was a great feature! A great feature for students regarding the Gale Database is the online access students can acquire from outside the school. Students use a school-wide password to access this database which can be found on the Media Center's website: Media Center Resource Page. Other duties included adding bar-coding to new books and preparing them for circulation as well as making labels for the media workroom.
Thursday, August 12, 2010 (4 hrs.) - Running Total: 26 Hours
Cataloging and 8th Grade Check-Out:
Today I assisted with the cataloging process (4 books) into the Destiny system - these books were replacement books for previously lost books. Books are entered into the system using the ISBN which generates a Marc Record within the system. Gone are the days of entering all the codes and labels within a Marc Record! However, books are labeled within the system in terms of book location (school), vendor, and funding source. Other duties included attending to 8th grade book circulation.
Today I assisted with the cataloging process (4 books) into the Destiny system - these books were replacement books for previously lost books. Books are entered into the system using the ISBN which generates a Marc Record within the system. Gone are the days of entering all the codes and labels within a Marc Record! However, books are labeled within the system in terms of book location (school), vendor, and funding source. Other duties included attending to 8th grade book circulation.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010 (7.5 hrs.) - Running Total: 22 Hours
7th Grade Orientation:
Today was mostly comprised of 7th grade orientation. As with 6th grade orientation yesterday, students were instructed on computer log-in procedures. I assisted with helping students with the log-in procedures and with locating Destiny Quest (card-catalog) on the server within the student folder icon. Other duties included book check-out at the circulation desk, covering new book jackets with Mylar book covers, and placing new books into circulation.
Today was mostly comprised of 7th grade orientation. As with 6th grade orientation yesterday, students were instructed on computer log-in procedures. I assisted with helping students with the log-in procedures and with locating Destiny Quest (card-catalog) on the server within the student folder icon. Other duties included book check-out at the circulation desk, covering new book jackets with Mylar book covers, and placing new books into circulation.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010 (7.5 hrs) Running Total: 14.5 hours
6th Grade Orientation:
Today was the first day for 6th grade media center orientation. The media specialist provided an overview, using the overhead projection system, of library services and instructed students on how to log onto the media center computers. New to this school year is a district wide policy that each student must use a unique log-in ID and password in order to access the network and computer programs. This was implemented as a security detail in order to better monitor student's computer use. I spent much of the day assisting students on how to log on to the computers as well as working at the circulation desk checking out books. I assisted the media paraprofessional with the bar-coding of rebounded books which were then placed back into circulation. Other duties included continuation of shelving new books, researching lexile levels to be added to book spine labels, and identifying books in series to add to the current series binder that is kept at the circulation desk for student reference.
Today was the first day for 6th grade media center orientation. The media specialist provided an overview, using the overhead projection system, of library services and instructed students on how to log onto the media center computers. New to this school year is a district wide policy that each student must use a unique log-in ID and password in order to access the network and computer programs. This was implemented as a security detail in order to better monitor student's computer use. I spent much of the day assisting students on how to log on to the computers as well as working at the circulation desk checking out books. I assisted the media paraprofessional with the bar-coding of rebounded books which were then placed back into circulation. Other duties included continuation of shelving new books, researching lexile levels to be added to book spine labels, and identifying books in series to add to the current series binder that is kept at the circulation desk for student reference.
Monday, August 9, 2010 (7 hrs.) - Running Total: 7 Hours
First Day of School:
Today is the first day of school for students. I spent some time helping to set up a new virus scan software on the computers that are utilized in the media center - a total of 28 computers are available for student use. These computers are used by students to access the Destiny card catalog system, perform word processing functions, and to conduct research. I also helped to prepare new books for circulation. In addition, I observed the media specialist as she imported Marc records from Follett into the school's card catalog database (Destiny).
Today is the first day of school for students. I spent some time helping to set up a new virus scan software on the computers that are utilized in the media center - a total of 28 computers are available for student use. These computers are used by students to access the Destiny card catalog system, perform word processing functions, and to conduct research. I also helped to prepare new books for circulation. In addition, I observed the media specialist as she imported Marc records from Follett into the school's card catalog database (Destiny).
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