About Our Program

This site has been set-up as part of Boatwright Library’s Learning 2.0 program that we’re calling TechLearning 2008. Our goal is to encourage staff to experiment and learn about the new and emerging technologies that are reshaping the context of information on the Internet today. The objectives of this program are to:

  • encourage exploration of Web 2.0 and new technologies
  • provide staff with new tools (that are freely available on the Internet) to better support Boatwright’s mission to meet the information needs of UR’s students, staff, and faculty.
  • reward staff for taking the initiative to complete 23 self-discovery exercises.

The Learning 2.0 program was designed by Helene Blowers, PLCMC Technology Director, with the support and assistance of several staff and is loosely based upon Stephen Abram’s article, 43 Things I (or You) might want to do this year (Information Outlook - Feb 2006), and the 43Things site. The Boatwright Library TechTeam is adapting the content for user here at UR.

The design of this online program was completely built on Web 2.0 technologies that are freely available on the Internet. These sites include: Blogger, Flickr, Odeo, YouTube, PBWiki & Bloglines.

Staff Incentives:

We have receieved approval to purchase mp3 playsers for each staff member who complete all 23 Things.

Staff have until August 15, 2008 to complete all 23 items in order to receive their mp3 player.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • How does this online learning program work?
    This is a self-discovery program which encourages staff to take control of their own learning and to utilize their lifelong learning skills through exploration and PLAY. There will be no classes or workshops offered to support this program. Instead, staff are encouraged to work together and share with each other their discoveries, techniques and ideas both in person and through their blogs.
  • How long do I have to complete the program?
    The program kicks off June 23. 2008 and concludes on August 15. The staff that complete all 23 Things by August 15, 2008 will also receive an incentive (if approved).
  • How do I track my progress for each of the 23 Things?
    Each staff member that chooses to participate in this program will be required to keep a blog to track their progress and will also need to register each item completed in the Learning 2.0 log.
  • Why 23 things instead of having participants do 43 things like the website?
    Given the time frame of the program (8 1/2 weeks), the number of “things” was reduced so that staff already burdened with busy work schedules wouldn’t feel overwhelmed by having too many discovery exercises to complete in a week. Also, it takes a lot of effort to create and develop 23 separate exercises and podcasts
  • Will there be any training classes offered to show staff how to do this?
    No, this is a self-directed learning program. If you feel you need assistance with an item, you are encouraged to be resourceful and to find a co-worker or another staff member who can help. Reading other staff member’s blogs can help, too.
  • I’ve seen the list of 23 Things on the website, but how do I know what to do with them?
    Each week, two or three posts will be added to the Learning 2.0 with details about the discovery exercises for that week. The reason for this staggered approach is to allow participants the ability to focus each week on a different area without feeling overwhelmed.
  • Can I work ahead through the list of items on my own?
    Yes, of course. You are encouraged to self-direct your discovery process, especially by working ahead on your own!! However, if you do work ahead on some items, be sure to check back on the exercise details for each item once they are posted so you can be sure to receive full credit for its completion.
  • What if I need help - who can I call?
    Since this program is self-directed and is being completed by many staff members throughout the system simultaneously, you are encouraged to work with colleagues along your discovery journey. To find a list of staff participating see The Participants.
  • I would like to earn the MP3 player but don’t feel comfortable with my co-workers reading my blog, can I participate anonymously?
    Yes & no. Since you control all the information that you share on your blog, you can choose to use a screen name to identify yourself to keep yourself anonymous. However, in order to receive the proposed incentive, you will need to identify yourself on the Learning 2.0 Log.

Don’t find your question answered here? Then enter it is as comment below.

Original Learning 2.0 Program Notes:

Original Learning 2.0 in the News: