I have a box of tools that I have accumulated over the years. I use the tools to fix things around the house. Some of the tools are specialized for specific tasks. I have bought them when a particular project requires a special tool to complete. There are other tools that might be nice to have in case I need them, but I won't buy them until I need them. Just knowing that they exist is good enough for me.
That's how I think of the Web services and applications surveyed in this course. Some of the Web tools I can use right now. Others seem less useful, but it is nice to know they exist.
Here are the tools I can find a use for right now ...
1) LibraryThing ... we use it in our small academic library as an OPAC substitute. We also look at the comments on books we are considering for purchase. It supplements the recommendations from more traditional sources
2) Screencasts ... I make a number of presentations to students to acquaint them with library resources that can help them complete their course work and improve their chances of academic success. Screencasts can be used both during the actual presentations, and as useful items to post to the student portal
3) YouTube ... an instructor from AIU Online created a very good YouTube on how to format a document in APA format (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rV3fD9QkyiA&feature=player_detailpage). Many students find APA rules to be a major hurdle. The AIU YouTube helps to reduce the fear factor surrounding APA. This, combined with my experience in completing Beyond Two-Steppin', has inspired me to explore other possible uses for this tool
These are my top three. The others I will use as the need arises ... now that I know they exist.
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