Thing 7-Anything Technology

Semantic Web

Check out Wikipedia's description of the Semantic Web. In short, it would be the implementation of a new format/language of information over the Web that allows computers to sort through all of the data to make relevant connections or share/compare data. In concept, like Communism, it could be a real boon to anyone that needs to gather, share, sort, limit categorize. In reality, it is riddled with potential problems, not the least of which is greater ability by organizations of power to control the dissemination of information and the loss of often blessed anonymity that comes with Web sharing.

All of these concern me as a library staffer. First thoughts: yikes, more ways to replace us info staffers and on the other hand, boy could that make my job easier. I really do see the potential pitfalls and benefits of this development. To have access go beyond access and into synthesis of info would be amazing but perhaps a bit too idealistic as well as a little scary.

P.S. For any linguistic buffs out there, the implied argument that language (I'd argue English in particular) is too variable and idiomatic to make this work is a fascinating one (as anyone who has had to do multiple keyword searches to get the desired results can relate to).

Things 1, 3 & 4

Obviously I read about 23 Things, created my blog, and registered it. But I figured before I moved on to Thing 4, playing with Flickr, I'd better make note (just in case anyone is keeping track).

Thing 2--7 1/2 Habits of Lifelong Learners

I keep "flipping" my blog, so I've decided I better start writing or I'll never get to it. So many styles, so many fonts, it's hard to resist. Anyway, here are my reactions to the short program, named in the title:

Stylistically-- liked that it was a slide show and a podcast, wish the narrator were a bit more expressive, but program was short and somewhat interesting.

Content-wise--Well...I like the ideas for the most part. Was hoping there would be a bit more about individual learning styles, and I do think that it is a bit idealistic. Yes, there is a lot of information available in multiple forms, but sometimes the learner has to adapt to the available learning situation/format too.

As far as the habits that appear to be most challenging to me, "having confidence in self as a learner" is difficult (I am the product of a typical public education), and "start with the end in mind" (I am not the most linear thinker and sometimes like to see what "unfolds").

The "easiest" habits for me may be "play" (I'll bet everyone says that's the easiest) and create own learning toolbox (I do love having multiple means of learning at my disposal, but, as mentioned earlier, I think it is unrealistic to assume that multiple means are always readily available at the most convenient of times).

Welcome to my blog: "Look on my works ye Mighty, and despair! " (Too much?)

This is my first venture into blogging. I will more than likely use this blog mainly to track my "23 Things," a project that libraries are engaging in to familiarize library staff with the modern world of technology (podcasts, webzines, and blogging... oh, my). But you never know, my narcissism may overcome my lethargy, and something interesting or funny (probably unintentionally) may pop up on occasion.