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Sunday, November 13, 2011
Monday, October 17, 2011
CPD 23 - Thing #23 - Reflection
As we come to the end of this professional development program, we have been asked to reflect on what we have learned and to project the next step in our career development.
One idea was creating a "six word story" that descibes our experience with CPD 23. My story is: Signed-up, Read, Investigated, Reflected, Blogged, Applied.
What does the career future hold for the next 3-5 years. I currently work part-time as a specialist, and apart from the library, conduct and manage a very talented adult concert band. My career future involves juggling both entities. Although pushing 65, the magical age of medicare and retirement, I could continue to develop my library career by completing my MLS degree and applying for full-time positions. However, to do that would be to limit the growth of my "volunteer" musical organization--certainly a strong "bliss" area for me.
Nearing retirement, and with a growing musical organization, I've decided to remain at the part-time specialist level, and continue my professional development through activites like CPD 23 and those sponsored by my state library association. I need the hours-off to manage all the business for my adult band, and to study the musical scores I have to conduct. This in itself is professional development.
From the CPD 23 program I have gained exposure to some software, like "Jing," that I have already put to good use, and insights into presenting oneself throuh resumes and job interviews. I will use concepts contained in the latter as I promote my adult band. Other relevant "things" I have used are Mentorship, Evernote, LinkedIn, and facebook and Twitter social media. Perhaps the most significant topic for me was in developing your personal brand.
This program has been valuable to me as a person, it has covered a variety of topics, and presented some new ideas. I'm very glad that I took part.
One idea was creating a "six word story" that descibes our experience with CPD 23. My story is: Signed-up, Read, Investigated, Reflected, Blogged, Applied.
What does the career future hold for the next 3-5 years. I currently work part-time as a specialist, and apart from the library, conduct and manage a very talented adult concert band. My career future involves juggling both entities. Although pushing 65, the magical age of medicare and retirement, I could continue to develop my library career by completing my MLS degree and applying for full-time positions. However, to do that would be to limit the growth of my "volunteer" musical organization--certainly a strong "bliss" area for me.
Nearing retirement, and with a growing musical organization, I've decided to remain at the part-time specialist level, and continue my professional development through activites like CPD 23 and those sponsored by my state library association. I need the hours-off to manage all the business for my adult band, and to study the musical scores I have to conduct. This in itself is professional development.
From the CPD 23 program I have gained exposure to some software, like "Jing," that I have already put to good use, and insights into presenting oneself throuh resumes and job interviews. I will use concepts contained in the latter as I promote my adult band. Other relevant "things" I have used are Mentorship, Evernote, LinkedIn, and facebook and Twitter social media. Perhaps the most significant topic for me was in developing your personal brand.
This program has been valuable to me as a person, it has covered a variety of topics, and presented some new ideas. I'm very glad that I took part.
CPD 23 - Thing #22 - Volunteering
What a great idea! Volunteering in a profession where you hope to work! Get practical experience that you can use on your resume, and gain valuable professional references for your application. Outstanding!
When I began working at the library I was fortunate NOT to have to volunteer. However, with two graduate degrees, I did start at the library aide level, and worked my way up to specialist over 2 years. I also notice that several of our aides, desire a career in library work and are working toward a library school degree. Fortunately we live in a large enough city to have several branches with the need for lots of entry level workers.
As I thought about volunteering in my own life I recognized that I did volunteer to help establish my music teaching and music performance career. That is, unpaid performing or unpaid teaching that hopefully allows one to gain experience and develop skill toward a professional position.
There were the inevitable high school all-star bands and orchestras that were and honor to be a part of. These groups provided lots of rehearsal and performance opportunities led by skilled directors and teachers who help the musicians master the music. There were the peer teaching experiences, even membership in the Future Teachers of America.
Part of collegiate teacher education is professional observation and student teaching. These are valuable learning experiences and provide valuable staffing for the schools. Not only did we "volunteer," we actually paid tuition to serve and develop experience and skill. We were rewarded by making professional friends from our supervising teachers and by gaining professional recommendations for our job applications.
Even as an adult, degreed and working in the profession, there are opportunies for volunteering. Membership in community and other adult bands helps keep music alive in many towns, especially serving the senior population that attends most of the concerts. Music teachers can learn new music, revisit music they haven't played in a number of years, and keep alive their own love of performing.
In music there is a term often associated with symphony orchestras that especially is germane to this discussion: Philharmonic - "for the love of music." Banding together to produce music, just for the love of the art. This is the height of volunteerism in music.
When I began working at the library I was fortunate NOT to have to volunteer. However, with two graduate degrees, I did start at the library aide level, and worked my way up to specialist over 2 years. I also notice that several of our aides, desire a career in library work and are working toward a library school degree. Fortunately we live in a large enough city to have several branches with the need for lots of entry level workers.
As I thought about volunteering in my own life I recognized that I did volunteer to help establish my music teaching and music performance career. That is, unpaid performing or unpaid teaching that hopefully allows one to gain experience and develop skill toward a professional position.
There were the inevitable high school all-star bands and orchestras that were and honor to be a part of. These groups provided lots of rehearsal and performance opportunities led by skilled directors and teachers who help the musicians master the music. There were the peer teaching experiences, even membership in the Future Teachers of America.
Part of collegiate teacher education is professional observation and student teaching. These are valuable learning experiences and provide valuable staffing for the schools. Not only did we "volunteer," we actually paid tuition to serve and develop experience and skill. We were rewarded by making professional friends from our supervising teachers and by gaining professional recommendations for our job applications.
Even as an adult, degreed and working in the profession, there are opportunies for volunteering. Membership in community and other adult bands helps keep music alive in many towns, especially serving the senior population that attends most of the concerts. Music teachers can learn new music, revisit music they haven't played in a number of years, and keep alive their own love of performing.
In music there is a term often associated with symphony orchestras that especially is germane to this discussion: Philharmonic - "for the love of music." Banding together to produce music, just for the love of the art. This is the height of volunteerism in music.
CPD 23 - Thing #21 - Promoting Yourself - Discovering Strengths
I agree with the CPD 23 authors about discovering your strengths to find career satisfaction. I think during my career I have always tried to "follow my bliss." After twenty some years of public school and college teaching I had lost my bliss and decided to go in a different direction.
During my transition phase I came across the "Strength Finder" series and took the test. My top strengths confirmed what I had always known about my self, and that I often tried to fit my square peg into a round hole without ultimate success. My strengths include: learner, ideation, context, intellection, and input. It was shortly after discovering these strengths that I applied to work at the public library, a career that really seems to fit me, and one where I have recovered my bliss.
If you haven't taken the Strength Finder test grab one of the books, read and take the test. It may be a significant reaffirmation of who you are at your core.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
CPD 23 - Thing #20 - Routes to Librarianship
My route to working in a library is somewhat unusual, but I'm sure there are library staffers who have similar elements in their story.
I came to work in the library following a 25 year career as a musician and music educator. I had taught bands in public schools and colleges and was kind of burnt out. I was fortunate to have a sabbatical from my institution and viewed lots of options. Knowing that I wasn't ready to retire, but that I didn't want to return to teaching, I thought I could put my research skills to good use at the library.
I began working at the public library as an aide responsible for assisting customers with their computer use. I was promoted to circulation clerk, and at my branch began to learn reference. Since, I have been promoted to library specialist and am responsible for reference, managing the floating collections, and staff training on eReaders and associated software.
I feel very much at home in the public library world. I like working with individuals and small groups, I like the library's approach to managing staff, and I like to hear "thank you" from the patrons--something rarely heard during my educational career.
I came to work in the library following a 25 year career as a musician and music educator. I had taught bands in public schools and colleges and was kind of burnt out. I was fortunate to have a sabbatical from my institution and viewed lots of options. Knowing that I wasn't ready to retire, but that I didn't want to return to teaching, I thought I could put my research skills to good use at the library.
I began working at the public library as an aide responsible for assisting customers with their computer use. I was promoted to circulation clerk, and at my branch began to learn reference. Since, I have been promoted to library specialist and am responsible for reference, managing the floating collections, and staff training on eReaders and associated software.
I feel very much at home in the public library world. I like working with individuals and small groups, I like the library's approach to managing staff, and I like to hear "thank you" from the patrons--something rarely heard during my educational career.
CPD23 - Thing #18 - Jing and Audacity
This week's "thing" deals with communicating and possibly training others via two wonderful apps. I have been aware of Audacity and had it loaded on my computer for a few years now. Jing is new to me, but I have already used it to help solve a problem with our new ILS.
Audacity is an audio editor capable of importing several kinds of audio files, including mp3s. One can adjust the volume, tone, and balance of files, and edit out silences and add fading intros and exits. This is how I have used the app over the past few years. I have a new project thanks to a Christmas present, that is transferring my large vinyl collection to digital files. I will use Audacity to create individual track files and then store the files in iTunes.
Of course, CPD 23 is interested in using Audacity to create and edit podcasts. I haven't used the software in that aspect as I have never created a podcast. I don't have the time, nor do I have a unique slant on a topic that would make for a successful podcast. So, I'm not likely to use this product for communicating or training.
Jing I found this software through CPD 23, and installed it on my work computer. Jing allows the user to take screen shots of just the portion of the screen needed, and to make digital movies of screen movements, such as cursors and keyboard entries. As such, Jing becomes a very useful app for training. Currently, I instruct patrons on using our eBook and audiobook collection, and adding OverDrive and Adobe Digital Editions software to their personal computers. I can see how I might create a Jing video to demonstrate the steps. If viewed on a second computer, a patron could mimic what he/she sees on the screen, using the pause feature to implement the action on his/her own machine.
Just this past week I used Jing's screen capture feature to send a shot to our tech service department. We were trying to create a default setup for our receipt printer, who's routine had no save function. The screen capture showed the tech department exactly what our screen looked like. The department was then able to create a solution to our need. Jing made the process very easy. I guarantee that I will use this app more often.
Audacity is an audio editor capable of importing several kinds of audio files, including mp3s. One can adjust the volume, tone, and balance of files, and edit out silences and add fading intros and exits. This is how I have used the app over the past few years. I have a new project thanks to a Christmas present, that is transferring my large vinyl collection to digital files. I will use Audacity to create individual track files and then store the files in iTunes.
Of course, CPD 23 is interested in using Audacity to create and edit podcasts. I haven't used the software in that aspect as I have never created a podcast. I don't have the time, nor do I have a unique slant on a topic that would make for a successful podcast. So, I'm not likely to use this product for communicating or training.
Jing I found this software through CPD 23, and installed it on my work computer. Jing allows the user to take screen shots of just the portion of the screen needed, and to make digital movies of screen movements, such as cursors and keyboard entries. As such, Jing becomes a very useful app for training. Currently, I instruct patrons on using our eBook and audiobook collection, and adding OverDrive and Adobe Digital Editions software to their personal computers. I can see how I might create a Jing video to demonstrate the steps. If viewed on a second computer, a patron could mimic what he/she sees on the screen, using the pause feature to implement the action on his/her own machine.
Just this past week I used Jing's screen capture feature to send a shot to our tech service department. We were trying to create a default setup for our receipt printer, who's routine had no save function. The screen capture showed the tech department exactly what our screen looked like. The department was then able to create a solution to our need. Jing made the process very easy. I guarantee that I will use this app more often.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
CPD23 - Thing #17 - Prezi and SlideShare
SlideShare is sort of a Flickr for powerpoints. I like the idea of people sharing their presentation creations and looking for ideas for making your own. why re-invent the wheel? There are lots of presentations filed according to subject, so searching through endless slideshows unrelated to your interest is kept to a minimum. The next time I have a presentation to make I know I'll search this data bank before starting the writing process.
Prezi is a completely different take on presentations. Rather than using the 35mm photo slide, or sheet of paper, with outlined or bulleted script as its metaphor, Prezi starts with a blank slate that allows you to view text and images at all 2D angles. You can also zoom in and out of text to create focus. As you create a Prezi you are free to post anywhere on your slate and then create a sequential map to get you from spot to spot in order.
As with SlideShare, Prezi has a data bank of stored and shared presentations enabling the newbie to get a better idea of how to create an effective presentation. A word of caution, be careful how you use zoom and side to side travel or you can give the viewer a seasick experience.
I think teens and college students, especially, will love presentations created with Prezi since it gives a new visual metaphor and seems less linear in construction.
Prezi is a completely different take on presentations. Rather than using the 35mm photo slide, or sheet of paper, with outlined or bulleted script as its metaphor, Prezi starts with a blank slate that allows you to view text and images at all 2D angles. You can also zoom in and out of text to create focus. As you create a Prezi you are free to post anywhere on your slate and then create a sequential map to get you from spot to spot in order.
As with SlideShare, Prezi has a data bank of stored and shared presentations enabling the newbie to get a better idea of how to create an effective presentation. A word of caution, be careful how you use zoom and side to side travel or you can give the viewer a seasick experience.
I think teens and college students, especially, will love presentations created with Prezi since it gives a new visual metaphor and seems less linear in construction.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
CPD23 - Thing 19 - Reflection and Adoption
During our CPD23 experience we've been exposed to a number of applications and websites that can improve our online professional image, and help us create teaching demonstrations.
I found the "Thing" on branding very helpful and have cleaned up a couple of my profiles on various social sites. As a result, I started a professional Twitter presence and made some changes in the professional presence on facebook. I really like the examples of LinkedIn profiles that were posted, and I plan to re-vamp my profile in a couple of weeks.
I was already familiar with several of the tools such as dropbox, google docs, and audacity, but some new tools that I want to investigate are Mendeley and Jing.
I appreciate the effort to create this professional development series, and congratulate the authors/compilers on a wonderful asset for working library staffers.
I found the "Thing" on branding very helpful and have cleaned up a couple of my profiles on various social sites. As a result, I started a professional Twitter presence and made some changes in the professional presence on facebook. I really like the examples of LinkedIn profiles that were posted, and I plan to re-vamp my profile in a couple of weeks.
I was already familiar with several of the tools such as dropbox, google docs, and audacity, but some new tools that I want to investigate are Mendeley and Jing.
I appreciate the effort to create this professional development series, and congratulate the authors/compilers on a wonderful asset for working library staffers.
CPD23 - Thing #16 - Advocacy
Omaha Public Library had a wonderful experience two years ago that staved off the threat of staff layoffs and a branch closing.
In our current economic environment, the city government was running several millions of dollars in the red. As a result, all city departments were going to have to cut back drastically. In our case, the library was going to layoff all part-time staff (I don't know how they expected to operate without these workers)and close one branch library.
The area residents living near this branch were very upset to hear that they would lose a vital community resource. At the same time an individual came forward with a "challenge" matching grant offer. If the library could raise $300,000 in one week, the individual would match the money and all library services would be restored.
As one of the laid off workers, I can tell you that I am thankful, AND impressed that the community responded within 3 days to provide all the money for the challenge grant.
These events became such a big news story in Omaha, making all the local TV newscasts and newspapers, that the city government was forced to reevaluate future library budgets, and has not attempted to reduce allotments since.
This is what I call ADVOCACY. The citizens poured out their advocacy for the library in the way of hard currency, and government leaders got the message.
In our current economic environment, the city government was running several millions of dollars in the red. As a result, all city departments were going to have to cut back drastically. In our case, the library was going to layoff all part-time staff (I don't know how they expected to operate without these workers)and close one branch library.
The area residents living near this branch were very upset to hear that they would lose a vital community resource. At the same time an individual came forward with a "challenge" matching grant offer. If the library could raise $300,000 in one week, the individual would match the money and all library services would be restored.
As one of the laid off workers, I can tell you that I am thankful, AND impressed that the community responded within 3 days to provide all the money for the challenge grant.
These events became such a big news story in Omaha, making all the local TV newscasts and newspapers, that the city government was forced to reevaluate future library budgets, and has not attempted to reduce allotments since.
This is what I call ADVOCACY. The citizens poured out their advocacy for the library in the way of hard currency, and government leaders got the message.
CPD23 - Thing #15 - Attending, Presenting, Organizing Conferences
In my music profession I've attended and presented at several conferences, and as a member of the NMEA executive board I've helped organize clincis and meetings for my area. I liked the statement about "being inspired" by something at the conference. I remember convention concerts that I've attended that have moved and inspired me. These sessions expand your understanding beyond the walls of your present conceptual box.
What advice would you give to others, based on your experiences?
Pre-plan which sessions you want to attend so that you don't miss the one event that you need the most. But, don't worry about attending every session on your list. Networking with people is an important facet of attending conferences. You'll get to visit with friends you haven't seen since last year's event, and you'll meet new people that can expand your present circle.
Are there conferences you’d like to attend?
I'd like to attend more Mid-West International Band & Orchestra Clinics, CBDNA conferences, and the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles. Mid-West is THE conference of the year for band director at all levels. You always hear new music and wonderful performances by DC based service bands and outstanding college and high school bands. Great networking, too.
CBDNA is where I go to get musically challenged by new music written for advanced university and professional wind bands. Many times I don't hear music that I owuld ever program, but my consciousness is always expanded, and so I'm a better musician for experiencing the unfamiliar. WASBE pulls the best of CBDNA together with directors and ensembles from all over the globe. There are incredible performances, and exposure to the musical styles of different countries.
What advice would you give to others, based on your experiences?
Pre-plan which sessions you want to attend so that you don't miss the one event that you need the most. But, don't worry about attending every session on your list. Networking with people is an important facet of attending conferences. You'll get to visit with friends you haven't seen since last year's event, and you'll meet new people that can expand your present circle.
Are there conferences you’d like to attend?
I'd like to attend more Mid-West International Band & Orchestra Clinics, CBDNA conferences, and the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles. Mid-West is THE conference of the year for band director at all levels. You always hear new music and wonderful performances by DC based service bands and outstanding college and high school bands. Great networking, too.
CBDNA is where I go to get musically challenged by new music written for advanced university and professional wind bands. Many times I don't hear music that I owuld ever program, but my consciousness is always expanded, and so I'm a better musician for experiencing the unfamiliar. WASBE pulls the best of CBDNA together with directors and ensembles from all over the globe. There are incredible performances, and exposure to the musical styles of different countries.
Monday, September 12, 2011
CPD23 - Thing #14 - Academic Reference Aids
Thing #14 asked us to investigate Zotero, Mendeley, and citeulike. Zotero, a FireFox browser plugin makes it easy to assemble bibliographic citations in text or in a reference list. This is very helpful for those writing academic papers. Unfortunately, you must use FireFox in order to take advantage of Zotero. Were I to embark on an academic projectg requiring footnotes and reference lists I would seriously look at using FireFox so that I use Zotero.
citeulike also works to create bibliographic citations from website, online documents, and papers. The video presentation wasn't too inspiring and the product didn't seem to fit my need.
However, I found Mendeley very interesting. The product allows you to access academic papers on the web, to form groups around specified research fields, and to access your saved documents from Mac, Windows, or iOS devices. I signed up for a free account and began playing with the app. I found some papers in my field and saved them to my library. I looked for groups in my field (wind band conducting), but wasn't surprised to find none. I allowed the app to search my email contacts for others using Mendeley, but there were none. So, I haven't yet found a group with similar interests. I'll keep looking after I download the iOS apps and the Mac desktop app.
citeulike also works to create bibliographic citations from website, online documents, and papers. The video presentation wasn't too inspiring and the product didn't seem to fit my need.
However, I found Mendeley very interesting. The product allows you to access academic papers on the web, to form groups around specified research fields, and to access your saved documents from Mac, Windows, or iOS devices. I signed up for a free account and began playing with the app. I found some papers in my field and saved them to my library. I looked for groups in my field (wind band conducting), but wasn't surprised to find none. I allowed the app to search my email contacts for others using Mendeley, but there were none. So, I haven't yet found a group with similar interests. I'll keep looking after I download the iOS apps and the Mac desktop app.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
CPD23 - Thing #13 - Google Docs, Wikis, and Dropbox
I began using Google Docs in 2007 when I began working on multiple computers at multiple locations. The ability to save and share documents, and have immediate access was of prime importance. On my Google Doc page I have shared photos and records with my son who lives in Virginia. Expanding the Docs page to Google Sites allows for a wiki-like creating/sharing experience. For a community workspace for the board of my adult band I created a Google Site with separate pages for each of our projects. When writing our group's constitution and bylaws we used the site to edit and share various versions of the document. Pretty cool!
Also in 2007 I began using Delicious to bookmark all the webpages I regularly visited and new ones I was saving for a class i was taking. That site worked very well and I could access it on multiple computers. But, I needed to sync documents and other files, and Delicious wasn't as good for that. So, I began using dropbox in 2010 and have installed it on work and home computers and my portable devices as well. I really like it because it will sync the Microsoft Office files that I regularly work with.
I'm glad to hear about Dropbox's sharing abilities and will try using them with my adult band.
Also in 2007 I began using Delicious to bookmark all the webpages I regularly visited and new ones I was saving for a class i was taking. That site worked very well and I could access it on multiple computers. But, I needed to sync documents and other files, and Delicious wasn't as good for that. So, I began using dropbox in 2010 and have installed it on work and home computers and my portable devices as well. I really like it because it will sync the Microsoft Office files that I regularly work with.
I'm glad to hear about Dropbox's sharing abilities and will try using them with my adult band.
CPD23 - Thing #12 - Social Networking
I've participated in social networking since 2007 and regularly use facebook and twitter. I have a Google+ account, but so far don't like it much. I also have a LinkedIn account. On facebook I belong to several social groups in addition to my friends, and some of these are professional groups aimed at mentoring.
One of these networks is for music teachers within our state. This network is working pretty well as both new and experienced music teachers ask and answer questions. It really helps to have a wonderful moderator who is positive and encouraging.
The advantage of this kind of network is that individuals can ask professional questions anytime during their day and get responses within minutes or hours. Some of the posters teach in small and isolated communities where physical mentors may not be readily available, and where they may be the only one teaching their subject in the district. Now they have a place to go and ask questions.
CPD23 hasn't helped me to make contact with others, and perhaps that's because I didn't reach out. Being a fairly quiet guy I have a hard time typing out to the cloud and trying to engage people that I don't know anything about. So, I think fostering a sense of community may depend on the individual.
One of these networks is for music teachers within our state. This network is working pretty well as both new and experienced music teachers ask and answer questions. It really helps to have a wonderful moderator who is positive and encouraging.
The advantage of this kind of network is that individuals can ask professional questions anytime during their day and get responses within minutes or hours. Some of the posters teach in small and isolated communities where physical mentors may not be readily available, and where they may be the only one teaching their subject in the district. Now they have a place to go and ask questions.
CPD23 hasn't helped me to make contact with others, and perhaps that's because I didn't reach out. Being a fairly quiet guy I have a hard time typing out to the cloud and trying to engage people that I don't know anything about. So, I think fostering a sense of community may depend on the individual.
CPD23 - Thing #11 - Mentoring
Thing #11 discusses the importance of mentoring in developing professionally. I've never had a formal mentor, but I greatly appreciate some managers that have helped guide my "career."
One manager was a great friend to all, and who gave me freedom to make mistakes and to develop my reference chops without hovering over my shoulder. He also assigned work tasks that built on my strengths and interests. This manager also provided the opportunity for me to write an article for a professional journal of which he was the editor. Finally, he showed appreciation for me as a person and as a library staffer. He became a non-judgmental friend to whom I could go when I needed to talk.
Another manager also recognized my strengths and interests and encouraged me to plan programs and displays for our library branch. The encouragement allowed me to continue to develop my skills and experience.
I am grateful to both of these managers who took a personal interest in me and who guided me in my professional development.
One manager was a great friend to all, and who gave me freedom to make mistakes and to develop my reference chops without hovering over my shoulder. He also assigned work tasks that built on my strengths and interests. This manager also provided the opportunity for me to write an article for a professional journal of which he was the editor. Finally, he showed appreciation for me as a person and as a library staffer. He became a non-judgmental friend to whom I could go when I needed to talk.
Another manager also recognized my strengths and interests and encouraged me to plan programs and displays for our library branch. The encouragement allowed me to continue to develop my skills and experience.
I am grateful to both of these managers who took a personal interest in me and who guided me in my professional development.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
CPD 23 - Thing #10 - Professional Library Degrees and Certification
This week's "thing" deals with routes to professional librarianship. Usually in the US that means a Masters degree in Library and Information Science. Degree programs accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) are specified by most hiring institutions. A few years ago I began a degree program while working as a library clerk.
At the time, there was a hiring freeze at our library. Vacant positions were not being filled, and few, if any, employees were being promoted. The coursework didn't seem to apply to my clerk's job, and I grew tired of the expense that was largely unsupported by scholarships. I must add that I had already earned a Masters and a Ph.D. in my first profession, Music.
At the same time, I have begun a public librarian certificate program sponsored by the Nebraska Library Commission. In fact, completing CPD 23 will earn me 15 credits toward the certificate.
I am also happy to say that library budgets were somewhat restored and lots of employees have been promoted, me included.
In the meantime, in 2009 I founded a semi-professional adult concert band, Omaha Symphonic Winds, and spend many hours weekly managing its business and studying scores in preparation of rehearsals and concerts. So, I decided to retain my part-time status with the library to allow me more time for OSW. With professional promotion off the table, due to lack of full time status, I see no need to complete the expensive library degree program.
I look forward, though, to completing the NLC public library certificate.
At the time, there was a hiring freeze at our library. Vacant positions were not being filled, and few, if any, employees were being promoted. The coursework didn't seem to apply to my clerk's job, and I grew tired of the expense that was largely unsupported by scholarships. I must add that I had already earned a Masters and a Ph.D. in my first profession, Music.
At the same time, I have begun a public librarian certificate program sponsored by the Nebraska Library Commission. In fact, completing CPD 23 will earn me 15 credits toward the certificate.
I am also happy to say that library budgets were somewhat restored and lots of employees have been promoted, me included.
In the meantime, in 2009 I founded a semi-professional adult concert band, Omaha Symphonic Winds, and spend many hours weekly managing its business and studying scores in preparation of rehearsals and concerts. So, I decided to retain my part-time status with the library to allow me more time for OSW. With professional promotion off the table, due to lack of full time status, I see no need to complete the expensive library degree program.
I look forward, though, to completing the NLC public library certificate.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
CPD23 - Thing #9 - Evernote
Shortly after I purchased my iPad I browsed through the AppStore for productivity apps to add to the functionality of my new tablet. I had heard about Evernote, but had never investigated it. For several years I had transferred files between my various computers, or insured that I had universal access, first through Google Docs, and then through DropBox. It was really cool to have a desktop app that would automatically sync files among my various devices and workstations.
I took a look at Evernote and liked how I could set up "notebooks" for various clippings, files, and media. I liked the way Evernote displayed the files, especially web clippings and photos. So, I added Evernote to my iPad, iPhone and multiple desktops. Now, I use it more than DropBox, except for Microsoft Office files that are not compatible with the free Evernote app.
I like the web clipping feature of Evernote and frequently clip articles and web graphics to my various notebooks. It's quick and convenient, and I like it better than Instapaper. I'm still pretty new to Evernote, but it looks like a winner to me.
I took a look at Evernote and liked how I could set up "notebooks" for various clippings, files, and media. I liked the way Evernote displayed the files, especially web clippings and photos. So, I added Evernote to my iPad, iPhone and multiple desktops. Now, I use it more than DropBox, except for Microsoft Office files that are not compatible with the free Evernote app.
I like the web clipping feature of Evernote and frequently clip articles and web graphics to my various notebooks. It's quick and convenient, and I like it better than Instapaper. I'm still pretty new to Evernote, but it looks like a winner to me.
CPD23 Thing #8 - Google Calendar
I've been using Google Calendar for three years because I need access to my events while working on as many as five different computers. At the library I work in a Windows environment, but at home I have a Mac. So, my calendar has to be platform neutral. In addition, I want to be able to share my events with my wife at her workplace. Google Calendar allows me to easily manage these requirements.
I have imported/subscribed to several public calendars, such as US and Christian Holidays, and, of course, the schedule of my favorite college football team. I have imported/subscribed to my wife's work calendar, and iCal on my Mac. I also download or share my Google Calendar with my iPhone and iPad.
Of course, since Google Calendar is web-based, I can access it from any of the computers I use at work via the web browser.
One thing not covered in Thing 8's tutorial is setting up alarms. I find important events are much easier to remember if I get a timely reminder. The alarm is flexible to allow for the reminder to occur at a user-selected interval prior to the event. It could be 30 minutes for something that happens at work, to 24 hours for birthdays and anniversaries to that I have time to purchase a gift.
I know that some businesses with small staffs have utilized Google Calendar to schedule employees' work. I tried doing it for a branch library, but our needs were pretty complicated, and I couldn't get it to display in an easy to understand manner.
However, it's really nice to have a universally available, free, and easy to use calendar to keep my schedule.
I have imported/subscribed to several public calendars, such as US and Christian Holidays, and, of course, the schedule of my favorite college football team. I have imported/subscribed to my wife's work calendar, and iCal on my Mac. I also download or share my Google Calendar with my iPhone and iPad.
Of course, since Google Calendar is web-based, I can access it from any of the computers I use at work via the web browser.
One thing not covered in Thing 8's tutorial is setting up alarms. I find important events are much easier to remember if I get a timely reminder. The alarm is flexible to allow for the reminder to occur at a user-selected interval prior to the event. It could be 30 minutes for something that happens at work, to 24 hours for birthdays and anniversaries to that I have time to purchase a gift.
I know that some businesses with small staffs have utilized Google Calendar to schedule employees' work. I tried doing it for a branch library, but our needs were pretty complicated, and I couldn't get it to display in an easy to understand manner.
However, it's really nice to have a universally available, free, and easy to use calendar to keep my schedule.
Monday, August 8, 2011
CPD23 - Thing #7 - F2F or Professional Networks
I have my feet in two professions. My degrees and most of my career have been spent in the Music Education field. I have been a public school and college educator for over 25 years, and started working in the library field about 3 1/2 years ago.
So, my professional memberships are in the Music Education field and include: Music Educators National Conference, Nebraska Music Educators Association, Nebraska State Bandmasters ASsociation, Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, College Band Directors National Association, American School Band Directors Association, and most recently the Association of Concert Bands.
I receive publications from all of these organizations, most with articles to promote professional development. They cover many topics, including: anaylses of composer's works, methods of teaching instruments, methods of conducting effective rehearsals, planning interesting concerts, making wise equipment purchases, traveling with your ensemble, and so on.
Most of these organizations host yearly professional conferences. I regularly attend those in Nebraska, and occasionaly travel to other cities as well. Usually, I am inspired by a great performance by a featured ensemble or by an especially instructive clinic session. I enjoy seeing colleagues, many of whom I have known for a number of years.
It is my priviledge to have been elected to serve the profession as Research and College/University Affairs Chair for the Nebraska Music Educators Association, and as President of the Nebraska chapter of Phi Beta Mu.
So, I am well versed in the role of Professional Organizations, and their benefit in professional development. And while I am interested in developing my knowledge and service excellence in my current position in the public library, I am not pursuing memberships in professional organizations at this time.
So, my professional memberships are in the Music Education field and include: Music Educators National Conference, Nebraska Music Educators Association, Nebraska State Bandmasters ASsociation, Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, College Band Directors National Association, American School Band Directors Association, and most recently the Association of Concert Bands.
I receive publications from all of these organizations, most with articles to promote professional development. They cover many topics, including: anaylses of composer's works, methods of teaching instruments, methods of conducting effective rehearsals, planning interesting concerts, making wise equipment purchases, traveling with your ensemble, and so on.
Most of these organizations host yearly professional conferences. I regularly attend those in Nebraska, and occasionaly travel to other cities as well. Usually, I am inspired by a great performance by a featured ensemble or by an especially instructive clinic session. I enjoy seeing colleagues, many of whom I have known for a number of years.
It is my priviledge to have been elected to serve the profession as Research and College/University Affairs Chair for the Nebraska Music Educators Association, and as President of the Nebraska chapter of Phi Beta Mu.
So, I am well versed in the role of Professional Organizations, and their benefit in professional development. And while I am interested in developing my knowledge and service excellence in my current position in the public library, I am not pursuing memberships in professional organizations at this time.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
CPD 23 Thing #6 - Online Networks
Thing #6 presented networks such as LinkedIn and Facebook, as well as professional resources CILIP and LISNPNP. I was already familiar with LinkedIn and Facebook, having a presence on both. CPD23's blog linked to some wonderful individuals on LinkedIn whose resumes and profiles were very well developed. As I continue to work on my branding I will return to these profiles as models for how to develop my page. Seeing that LISNPN and CILIP seem to be UK associations, I'll forego getting involved with them right now.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Cpd 23 #5 - Reflective Practice
I find true reflective practice to be challenging. Like many others, I am on the go, and have many activites crammed into my life. So, finding, or taking, the time to reflect is difficult.
From the UK version of CPD 23 I learned a simple three- step approach to reflection. 1) What?, 2) So What., 3) Now What? Let's review and reflect on our participation so far.
1) What? we've restarted our dormant blog, viewed colleagues' blogs, considered our public brand, and lookead at some social networking tools.
2) So What? Blogging is a way of onlline sharing our discoveries in this professional development exercise. since we're seperated by distance and are forced to communicate online the blog serves as a good tool for accoomplishing that purpose. Actually, just writing itself is a form of reflection. Hence the diary or journal.
Branding is a concept that I became familiar with a few years ago, although I didn't actively organize my online personna to consolidate it. Since rreading that toopic I have made a few adjustments, notably on my LinkedIn profile, which is dedicated to my music personna. I have more difficulty consolidating my facebook and twitter personnas as they serve for my two careers, librarianship and conducting, and my family and friends as well.
3) Now What? AsI continue to work through the 23 Things I'll keep blogging, perhaps it will become a habit. I'll also read colleagues blog to keep up with their experiences and discover ways that I might continue to grow. I'll keep monitoring my brand on my online social and professional networks and in print media for my conducting.
Whew! That's a lot of reflecting for me. On to the next activity, and on to Thing #6.
From the UK version of CPD 23 I learned a simple three- step approach to reflection. 1) What?, 2) So What., 3) Now What? Let's review and reflect on our participation so far.
1) What? we've restarted our dormant blog, viewed colleagues' blogs, considered our public brand, and lookead at some social networking tools.
2) So What? Blogging is a way of onlline sharing our discoveries in this professional development exercise. since we're seperated by distance and are forced to communicate online the blog serves as a good tool for accoomplishing that purpose. Actually, just writing itself is a form of reflection. Hence the diary or journal.
Branding is a concept that I became familiar with a few years ago, although I didn't actively organize my online personna to consolidate it. Since rreading that toopic I have made a few adjustments, notably on my LinkedIn profile, which is dedicated to my music personna. I have more difficulty consolidating my facebook and twitter personnas as they serve for my two careers, librarianship and conducting, and my family and friends as well.
3) Now What? AsI continue to work through the 23 Things I'll keep blogging, perhaps it will become a habit. I'll also read colleagues blog to keep up with their experiences and discover ways that I might continue to grow. I'll keep monitoring my brand on my online social and professional networks and in print media for my conducting.
Whew! That's a lot of reflecting for me. On to the next activity, and on to Thing #6.
Friday, July 22, 2011
CPD23 - #3 Your Personal Brand
I've been aware of branding, especially for organizations, for awhile, and I have even checked my name on google a couple of times to see if I'm even listed. Surprise! My new google+ account profile comes up first on the search page. Who knew?
I show up most often under my full name and secondly under my self-assumed nickname. Often there are links between the two. There is some consistency with use of name, but less so with images. I like two professional photos that I display on Facebook, google+, and my blog, but for some reason have chosen a "Flat Stanley" for Twitter. Perhaps because when I first started posting Twitter was more a newsy "here's what I'm doing" kind of app. I need to change my old photo on LibraryThing, and maybe Twitter, too.
Since I work in the library field, but really live in the wind band world, I guess I'll have to live with a little inconsistency to my total brand. Does this mean I'm schizophrenic? Should I consider separating my two identities? How does that work on Facebook where I crossover?
For now, I think I'll clean up photo images and pay more attention to what I write, and how I write it.
I show up most often under my full name and secondly under my self-assumed nickname. Often there are links between the two. There is some consistency with use of name, but less so with images. I like two professional photos that I display on Facebook, google+, and my blog, but for some reason have chosen a "Flat Stanley" for Twitter. Perhaps because when I first started posting Twitter was more a newsy "here's what I'm doing" kind of app. I need to change my old photo on LibraryThing, and maybe Twitter, too.
Since I work in the library field, but really live in the wind band world, I guess I'll have to live with a little inconsistency to my total brand. Does this mean I'm schizophrenic? Should I consider separating my two identities? How does that work on Facebook where I crossover?
For now, I think I'll clean up photo images and pay more attention to what I write, and how I write it.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
CPD23 - Thing 2 - Blogs continued
As a part of setting up a blog to comment on our own personal development, CPD23 members were asked to visit other members blogs. Since I work and live in Nebraska I decided to look for colleagues. Along the way I discovered some interesting things.
1. CPD23 is sponsored by UK librarians, so most of the blogs and news listed on the CPD23 blog are - British. They've been setting up some area meetings - in the UK. OK, time to look somewhere else.
2. I imported CPD23 to my iPad's "Flipboard" app to make it easier to read the blog posts. But, I got mostly the UK info when I wanted the Nebraska stuff. I finally located the Nebraska page and now can view colleagues' posts.
3. Many of my colleagues submitted their blogs from previous years' 23 Things and haven't yet started blogging about this program. I also noted that most of the colleagues are from rural libraries. Since I work in Omaha we won't find a lot in common. Fortunately I also live in a small town with a library of its own. I think this year's 23 Things will teach me more about what a small town librarian's life is like.
Finally, I amamazed at how quickly one can fall behind in this project, and I appreciate receiving Twitter posts from CPD23 to help keep me on track.
1. CPD23 is sponsored by UK librarians, so most of the blogs and news listed on the CPD23 blog are - British. They've been setting up some area meetings - in the UK. OK, time to look somewhere else.
2. I imported CPD23 to my iPad's "Flipboard" app to make it easier to read the blog posts. But, I got mostly the UK info when I wanted the Nebraska stuff. I finally located the Nebraska page and now can view colleagues' posts.
3. Many of my colleagues submitted their blogs from previous years' 23 Things and haven't yet started blogging about this program. I also noted that most of the colleagues are from rural libraries. Since I work in Omaha we won't find a lot in common. Fortunately I also live in a small town with a library of its own. I think this year's 23 Things will teach me more about what a small town librarian's life is like.
Finally, I amamazed at how quickly one can fall behind in this project, and I appreciate receiving Twitter posts from CPD23 to help keep me on track.
Monday, July 4, 2011
CPD23 - Thing #4, Twitter, RSS, and Pushnote
OK, I'm doing some of the things out of order. We just returned from our Summer vacation to see all 3 kids and 6 grandkids. For awhile we didn't have wifi access, and then we were just too pooped to pop. However, following a wonderful nap and waiting for the Fourth of July specials to come on TV, we're up and at it!
I've been using Twitter for a couple of years now, although I was on a self-imposed hiatus for about 9 months. When I first started using it Twitter seemed like a Round Robin conversation where everyone speaks and no one listens. Have you ever been in a conversation where you were talking about one thing, and then after pausing, the other party began speaking about something completely unrelated? Well, that was Twitter--then.
Twitter:--now has morphed into sharing news and other websites with your followers. It's a way of keeping followers up on the latest news, and as such is a valuable tool for libraries. My branch has several programs each week, so there's always something new. We can communicate with patrons who are followers to keep them updated on the latest program. I like this approach to twitter much better.
RSS feeds: It's very easy to get inundated with RSS feeds and not have time to read them all. Be careful what you sign up for! Again RSS can be a valuable resource for libraries in communicating new events to patrons. Recently, I purchased an iPad and found a magazine-style RSS aggregator that I like very much. It's called "Flipboard." It comes with facebook and twitter feeds as well as news, sports, lifestyle, tech, and flickr interesting. You can add RSS feeds of your own to the app. All the pages show photos, icons, and text arranged in a magazine format--so very visual and easy to read. If you have an iPad check it out!
The new thing for me is Pushnote. I had not heard of this app/extention before and am still learning about it. Setting up a Pushnote account was easy as was the download and installation of the extention in my Safari browser. Initially I tried downloading it on my iPad, but that didn't seem to work. Pushnote's fax indicates that mobile extentions will arrive soon.
My Safari browser has a new star located in the address bar. When I click on it a new window opens with the current browser page listed. Supposedly if others have rated the page the star will turn colors. Maybe it's if other friends have rated the page the star turns color. None of my facebook or twitter friends apparently use pushnote yet. Anyway after assigning 1-5 stars you can add a short comment about the page. You can also view other "hot" pages highly rated by other pushnote users.
For Pushnote to become a valuable library tool more folks will have to begin using it, and I certainly have to keep playing with it to learn more of its functions.
Are any of you using Pushnote? How valuable have you found it to be?
I've been using Twitter for a couple of years now, although I was on a self-imposed hiatus for about 9 months. When I first started using it Twitter seemed like a Round Robin conversation where everyone speaks and no one listens. Have you ever been in a conversation where you were talking about one thing, and then after pausing, the other party began speaking about something completely unrelated? Well, that was Twitter--then.
Twitter:--now has morphed into sharing news and other websites with your followers. It's a way of keeping followers up on the latest news, and as such is a valuable tool for libraries. My branch has several programs each week, so there's always something new. We can communicate with patrons who are followers to keep them updated on the latest program. I like this approach to twitter much better.
RSS feeds: It's very easy to get inundated with RSS feeds and not have time to read them all. Be careful what you sign up for! Again RSS can be a valuable resource for libraries in communicating new events to patrons. Recently, I purchased an iPad and found a magazine-style RSS aggregator that I like very much. It's called "Flipboard." It comes with facebook and twitter feeds as well as news, sports, lifestyle, tech, and flickr interesting. You can add RSS feeds of your own to the app. All the pages show photos, icons, and text arranged in a magazine format--so very visual and easy to read. If you have an iPad check it out!
The new thing for me is Pushnote. I had not heard of this app/extention before and am still learning about it. Setting up a Pushnote account was easy as was the download and installation of the extention in my Safari browser. Initially I tried downloading it on my iPad, but that didn't seem to work. Pushnote's fax indicates that mobile extentions will arrive soon.
My Safari browser has a new star located in the address bar. When I click on it a new window opens with the current browser page listed. Supposedly if others have rated the page the star will turn colors. Maybe it's if other friends have rated the page the star turns color. None of my facebook or twitter friends apparently use pushnote yet. Anyway after assigning 1-5 stars you can add a short comment about the page. You can also view other "hot" pages highly rated by other pushnote users.
For Pushnote to become a valuable library tool more folks will have to begin using it, and I certainly have to keep playing with it to learn more of its functions.
Are any of you using Pushnote? How valuable have you found it to be?
Thursday, June 23, 2011
CPD 23 on the road!
I'm sitting in Savannah's Islands Branch Library creating my first cpd23 blog post. I'm on a busman's holiday!
I am very enthused to be a part of a new 23 Things professional development project because I learned a lot from OPL's "Oh! What a Geek." In that program I started this blog, I learned about mash-ups, and fun little applets to incorporate into the blog page.
My goal for cpd23 is to learn more social/technology to incorporate into personal and professional computing. Since I'm a lifelong learner I expect the experience to lots of fun.
While on our current vacation, we left the laptops at home and are corresponding via iPad. We're dowloading audiobooks and eBooks from 2 different Nebraska libraries and listening while we travel, and eReading during quiet hours with our family. The immediate, and personal connection with the iPad is quickly making it my favorite computing platform. I hope OPL's new ILS integrates with it over Wi-Fi, so that I can go out into the stacks and answer patrons' questions right there.
more later....
I am very enthused to be a part of a new 23 Things professional development project because I learned a lot from OPL's "Oh! What a Geek." In that program I started this blog, I learned about mash-ups, and fun little applets to incorporate into the blog page.
My goal for cpd23 is to learn more social/technology to incorporate into personal and professional computing. Since I'm a lifelong learner I expect the experience to lots of fun.
While on our current vacation, we left the laptops at home and are corresponding via iPad. We're dowloading audiobooks and eBooks from 2 different Nebraska libraries and listening while we travel, and eReading during quiet hours with our family. The immediate, and personal connection with the iPad is quickly making it my favorite computing platform. I hope OPL's new ILS integrates with it over Wi-Fi, so that I can go out into the stacks and answer patrons' questions right there.
more later....
Monday, June 6, 2011
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