Goal: To create a user-friendly web-based scheduling tool which teachers can access 24/7 to schedule time for their classes in the library as well as use of laptop computer carts.
Technology Tools:
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PBWiki – a free tool which allows users to view and edit from any computer with Internet access. Users will be given a password to access the schedule and if errors are made, the schedule can be “rolled back” to an earlier version, so it is essentially foolproof.
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SchoolWorld Library Website – a link from the teacher tools page will allow easy access for staff
Proposal/Steps:
- Become more familiar with PBWiki and explore capabilities in order to create a user-friendly wiki. (done)
- Create an on-line scheduling tool using PBWiki and link it to the Teacher Tools page of the FHS library. (in-process)
- Ask several teachers who frequently use the library and computer carts to “pilot” the on-line schedule and give feedback. (identifying staff now)
- Based on feedback, make improvements to the scheduling system.
- Once scheduling system “kinks” are worked out, give a demonstration of the system at a staff meeting underscoring the fact that using the system is optional and an enhancement of services to staff.
- Schedule staff development sessions as/if needed.
Challenges:
- “Old Dog/New Trick” Syndrome – For those wary of trying something new, they will still be able to come to the library to sign up just like before. The only difference is that the library staff will pull the schedule up on the computer in front of the staff member. Hopefully, the staff member will then see how easy it is to access the schedule and edit it – ie. one-on-one training in a non-threatening environment.
- Internet Outage – Possibly have a paper back up? But, how often does that happen, so is it really necessary? I tend to think not....
Maintenance:
Comments (2)
ghuot said
at 2:23 pm on Nov 27, 2007
Great idea. As I mentioned earlier in the blog, we have considered doing this as PHS as well but were concerned that the HS Library would turn into a "computer lab sign-up" scenerio and no collaboration or information literacy standards would be met without having (requiring)a "face-to-face" sign-up protocol as we have now. That being said, all organizations have different cultures and we are VERY, VERY interested to see how this innovative programming tool will work. Keep us posted--we would love to model it!
Michelle said
at 9:22 am on Dec 18, 2007
I think this is an innovative use of a wiki. Using an online tool for sign up, will make it easier for your teachers to see what the library schedule is without leaving their classroom. Glen's comment is a good one. If you have policies or have to discuss lessons with teachers after they sign up, you may be able to add these into the process at a later time.
Good luck with this. If it works well and the teachers like it, you may be able to use it as a starting point for a larger technology project in the future.
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