Chapter 2--Reactions to Learning 2.0 #1 and #2

My thoughts on #1--There were three things that jumped out at me here. First, the purpose of this exercise is self-discovery. I'm good with that. I find myself forever interesting, especially to me.

Second, the idea of having fun with this seems to be the dominant leitmotif of the project. That's useful since some technical terms sometimes intimidate more than they invite. If an RSS feed can be fun, I'm up for it whatever it turns out to be.

Third, the concept of an information literacy toolbox is intriguing and I'll bet useful. That concept is repeated in the 7 and a half habits segments.

My thoughts on #2--Some of the habits discussed are harder for me than others. For example, it is difficult for me to view problems as challenges that can be learned from. One of my weak points, both professionally and personally is realizing that problems and obstacles are learning opportunities that can help me grow and learn. Another area of difficulty is habit 4--having confidence as a competent learner. Clearly I am a competent learner, otherwise I wouldn't have made it as far as I have. But to have confidence in all that I do is where I fall short, and hope to improve.

Most of the habits are easy for me, though. For example, I have a wonderful "toolbox". I have plenty of family and friends who are willing to teach me when I am unsure. I use technology to my advantage every day.

Apart from this, I pondered the issue of the implication of lifetime learning for libraries. First, lifetime learning implies that libraries need to be able to serve the needs of everyone. From toddlers to octogenarians who come to learning with a wide diversity of motivations, interests, skill sets and objectives. The pubic library needs to be able to find a way to serve all these needs.

Second, the breadth of the requirements described in number one, conflicts with the physical and financial limitations of the library. To adequately address these needs the library requires cost effective strategies. These should include concentrating on sources that will provide access to more detail resources that may be located in other places. In other words, the library should be a gateway rather than a destination. To bolster the library's function as a gateway it needs to place great stress on the use of networks. In other words, in addition to informing where information is, it should also furnish a pathway to it. The internet is one such pathway and certainly well within the financial and physical limitations of a library.

Third, since the library is a public place it has the ability to create sub-communities of learners that promote mentoring and other exchanges of information.