Blog Post 2: Handheld Devices

        Making Instruction Mobile discusses the need for libraries to evolve as student needs and ways of learning evolve. The introduction of Web 2.0 tools has opened up many options of sharing information. Students search for information differently than they did previously. 

The University of Tennessee Libraries started creating videos as a way for students to get information. They found it was important that they be short, accurate, and easy to find. Most videos students were searching for were “How To” videos. The libraries created videos based on the students’ and teachers’ needs. These videos can be accessed by computer and other handheld devices.

QR codes are also being used in the libraries. The QR codes are being used to provide short podcasts about different services the library offers.  They have also been used on posters for promotion of activities. This allows people to scan the code and have access to the information on their handheld devices. They are looking into how QR codes can help students while searching for information in the stacks. One possibility is scanning one could lead them to digital sources of information about a topic.

Another type of technology being used is Clickers and polling software. This type of technology allows students to be involved. They have used them for polls about various topics. They can be used in a classroom or as a large group. Students and teachers can see immediate feedback of how their answer compares to others, but it is in an anonymous way so there is no worry about getting embarrassed about your answer.  It also allows the teacher and/or librarian collect data.

I look forward to using these technologies in the library. I have thought about having the older students make “How To” videos teaching the younger students about library skills. I would also like to have them create video book reviews. One way book reviews could be accessed is by being put on the library website and by QR codes.  I have used QR codes in my classroom as quick links to take Accelerated Reader tests, self-checking activities in stations, and even a scavenger hunt. This could be used in the library as well. I would like to have the students kick off the year with a QR scavenger hunt to learn about what services and resources we have to offer in the library. Students would be able to use handheld devices to access the videos and to scan the QR codes.  They could also be used for Augmented Reality using an APP such as Aurasma. Students could make a video book report and use the cover of the book as the trigger. When the student hovers over the cover with the app, the video would play. This would be very engaging and help younger students to learn about the books. The devices could also be used for individual research, station activities and for reading e-books.

                                                             Reference

Bolorizadeh, A., Brannen, M., Gibbs, R., & Mack, T. (2012). Making instruction mobile.
        Reference Librarian, 53(4), 373. doi:10.1080/02763877.2012.707488