Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Thing 23

That's the end?

It is sad to see another 23 things wind down.  I am so glad this training program was brought back.  I truly enjoyed it.

My learning curve on this program started at ground zero.  I hadn't touch a tablet or tried any apps.

I learned how to use an IPad and discovered I really enjoyed them.  I mentioned to my co workers that I think the next time there is an upgrade we will find ourselves working on tablets rather than computer terminals.  This  was part of the reason I chose to participate.

The App world is astounding.  I had no idea there were so many.  I always assumed they were geared toward entertainment and games too.  I think it is important for us to know apps to better connect our  patrons.  We link people to information.  Information comes in the form of paper or electronic.

I also chose to give myself an additional challenge.  There are patrons who have their own technology and then there are those who rely on us for their technology.  I decided to rely on the library for my source.  I had to come into the library and use our ipad.  I also had to think about which apps to download, sign into, and then keep or remove.

This definitely affected my learning curve.  Half way through I became very frustrated and considered just buying my own tech or quitting 23 things.  I reconsidered and finished.  I can understand how difficult it is to rely on an outside source for your information. 

Thank you for the opportunity to expand my technology knowledge.

Good luck to everyone and I hope to see you all at the finish line!!!!!!!

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Thing 22 & 21

Okay I decided to jump to Thing 22 so I could do Thing 21.

I am using an Ipad so I do see the free apps offered by Apple.  I usually glide thru them to see if there is anything interesting that I might like to try.  It's a quick, easy, convenient way to search for new apps.

For thing 22 I decided to search out new apps, to boldly go where I haven't gone before....
(que star trek music).

I searched  "best of 2013, the hottest apps for 2014, best free apps".  I reviewed several and these are the apps I liked.

Photoshop Express-it works with Adobe.
Converter Plus-great for travel
GAIN fitness- app is free but you do  pay for the exercises
Gmail, Google Drive, Maps & Translate because if you have a google account you have one account sign in.
Wicker-Doesn't keep data.

I also found:
 Little Alchemy-mix chemistry & fun together.  Good app for STEM.
GoComics-turn scribbles into comics.  I know some very creative boys who will like this.
Weebly-Make your own website.  Could be a good recommendation for small businesses.

Thing 21
My all time new favorite app is.....

UNTAPPED...Beer is good.  This is an app for those who enjoy trying new beers or tap rooms or wish to connect with other beer apprecianatos.  I and my husband are such people.  Now you know the real me.


Monday, June 2, 2014

Thing 20

Games

"No really I have to play games at work.  It's part of my training."

Who ever thought I would get to make that statement.  Games are fun and some are very addictive. 

I remember when Pacman & Frogger came out. I can even remember Pong. A game you played on the TV.  It was like playing tennis.  You hit a little round circle back and forth with little rectangles. The circle became faster with every hit.  This went on until someone missed.  We thought it was a lot of fun and spent hours playing it.  Ah, the 70's.

Overall, Believe it or not I am not a gamer.  Truthfully all those requests I get to join games are quite irratating.   Video games are entertaining and relaxing.  I just prefer not to be constantly invited to play them.

But the training was a hoot.

Friday, May 23, 2014

Thing 14

Videos

In the future everyone will be famous for 15 minutes.  I decided to try my hand at making videos.  I downloaded Magisto.  I uploaded some pics, chose the music and hit "make my movie".  A few minutes later... Presto, Chango, a movie. 

I am surprised that I enjoyed this app.  My first thought was another video, just what I need.  But these are short and easy to make.  I can download or share them. 

I will take my 15 minutes of fame and enjoy.

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Thing 15

Infographics

I held off on this one because I was overwhelmed with it.  There is so much to infographics I knew I needed time to work with it.  I have decided I really like the possibilities of using this app.  I prefer a pad or tablet because it is easier to see and tap on what I want to use. I liked being able to work on this item on a pad rather than having to be at a computer.

 I am going to redo a WORD presentation with infographics to give it more people appeal.  I loved viewing other infographic presentations just to see all the creativity.  I think this is an app that has indefinite possibilities.

Friday, May 16, 2014

Thing 16

Audio

I have to admit at first this thing had me flustered.  What to do with Audio?  How to use it in a library?

I decided to try Audioboo.  Mostly because I like saying "Audioboo".  I can think of several ways to use it in a library.  I would love to record kids reading famous quotes and then place bookmarkers in the books from which came the quote. 

Another idea is to record kids reciting "knock knock jokes" or comicbooks to each other.  I love joke books and comics.  There is always a comic in the bunch. Light fun reading is just as important as novels or the classics.  Especially for summer.  All reading is fun.


I doubt that you will hear me on Audioboo.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Thing 18

Education

The apps for this subject are boundless.  I looked and used 4 different ones:  Science360, MyScript, dictionary/Thesaraus and Wiki.

I very much enjoyed Myscript for math.  This is an app I would suggest for junior & senior high students primarily due to the advanced math concepts.  I think it may be to much for elementary students.   I think it lends itself well to Educreation and any homework tutoring program.

Science 360 is beautiful.  I loved the pictures, videos, lessons.  I viewed for an ipad and for desktop both were great.  I think this would be a great addition to any science display.  I[m picturing NASA, Space, Mars rover and Science360.

Wiki has definitely come a long ways since it's beginning.  I remember not suggesting it due to lack of credibility.  Now it seems to be the first source suggested.  An app for quick referencing is very handy for students, teachers and libraries.

I admit using an online dictionary/thesarus is convenient and yes I do use them.  I have to admit this is one area where I do prefer a book.  When I look a word up in a dictionary I find myself  reading more than one word.  I find dictionaries and thesarauses facinating.  I loose myself in them.  All those wonderful words.

 I want kids to discover glorious wonderful words.