Online Book Communities

Online Book Communities...What is that?????

Ever had so many books in your mind that you felt you needed to sort or make sure you organized them to read.  Forget the paper and pencil, or the notepad...online book communities are here!  

An online book community allows you to save your books under one site.  Several websites are available for you to accomplish this goal: Goodreads, LibraryThing, Shelfari, Booklikes, Biblionasium.  Every site is different and can be chosen according to the needs of the audience.  Lucky for you, I have researched all of them and I am thrilled to report back to you!!!  

Warning: Do NOT, under any circumstance allow me to influence your decision.  Each site is different for everyone, you must find the one that fits your needs!  

LET'S BEGIN

Good Reads.....

Goodreads is definitely geared towards adults.  If you are going to school and need to read several books for a course, this is your site.  Of course, if you are a book lover, this is also you site.  

The physical appearance provides a very mature look.  Searching for books is simple; however, your searches can sometimes be very lengthy!  What I do absolutely love about this site is that you can type in a keyword, and immediately all books related to that keyword are provided in an instance!  For example, if you type Harry Potter, you will see an immediate list.  Furthermore, you can create shelf your books according to your categories.  This can be ideal if you have a variety of books for a variety of purposes.  "Shelf"ing them does not take a long time at all.  Easy to use and simple to navigate! 

LibraryThing

Of all my library book communities, this would probably have to be my least favorite.  The physical appearance is very similar to Good Reads; however, the ease of navigating through the site is not as simple.  What I felt was most inconvenient, was that if you made the same search of Harry Potter, the list was not as beneficial.  There was a variety of Harry Potter results that were not relevant to what I was searching.  This caused my time efficiency to decrease.  Moreover, after finding the books I decided to add to a list, it was categorizing them to a shelf that become very tedious.  To complete this task, you needed to select the book, which then a lengthy profile to the book is provided (with lots of information), then you needed to find the right icon to select, by then your time has been prolonged.  Finally, I was also not enthused that I was not able to create my own shelf titles.  Perhaps I did not not find it, but nonetheless, this would only provide another reason why I would not recommend this site (at least not at the top of my list). 

Shelfari

Although the physical appearance of this site is friendly, the efficiency is similar to LibraryThing.  To begin with, loading information took a very long time.  As I progressed through all the sites, Shelfari was the only one that gave me this type of trouble.  Let me know if this happens to you too.  Furthermore, the searches were not as fast and relevant.  Once again I made the same search and found that the results were not categorized according to popularity or relevant to most searchers.  For example, Harry Potter, the result given were mixed: book, coloring book, book collection, etc.  In my opinion, it would be much easier if the search results were organized systematically to help the audience.  However, that being said, after finding the book desired, only allowed me to shelf it according to read, plan to read or currently reading it.  

Booklikes

As we approach the end of our online book communities, have no fear, my favorite ones are on their way!!!!  Booklikes was among my top of the list.  The physical appearance is very friendly and the ability to navigate was extremely simple and efficient!  In a world were time if of essence, time efficiency ranks a top priority.  Once again, I decided to make the same search, Harry Potter.  Immediately the list was provided and organized to provide the most relevant searches first.  This made my listing quick.  Furthermore, once the list was provided, you were able to simply select "Shelf" and automatically it prompted you to the shelf you wish to assign it to.  What I also appreciated about this site was the ability to create a shelf according to your needs, in an expedient manner.  Finally, what I also loved about this site was that how after selecting the book, I was immediately taken to the background information of that book. I was able to view a quick summary with multiple reviews on it.  Awesome feature and very quick!!!!!

Biblionasium

Last, but definitely not least, Biblionasium.  Immediately the name provides a friendly atmosphere.  This would definitely be the site for teachers!  When registering, you are prompted to answer what you are using the site for.  This allows the site to provide you with the most beneficial features that cater to your needs.  For example, I selected teacher.  I was completely fascinated by how many features were provided to me.  I was immediately able to create a classroom name, in which my students would be able to visit the site and instantly know which books are recommended or needed to read in my classroom.  One disadvantage was the inability to create shelf titles that extend beyond what is provided: favorites, recommended, required.  Among the many features, another one that surprised me was how you can assign books to specific students or as a whole class.  In this manner, teachers are able to assure students are reading books that are to their ability level.  Other awesome features include: parent letter, additional fun stuff for children, award winning books, student reports....I can go on, but please I encourage you to visit this site and discover how much more it has to offer!!!!  By far, Bilionasium is my #1 site to use with my students!!!!

In conclusion, I have evaluated each of the book community sites that are highly recommended....each one with its own advantages and disadvantages (keep in my, I have provided you only with my opinion), but what are you waiting for?   Start your exploration and find which one if right for you!  

Till the next time!

Podcasts

Thank you for joining me on another technology adventure.  Today we are exploring the usage of Podcasts?  Such an intriguing word, yet some of us might not know what it is.  If this is you, have no fear, I am here!  

Let me begin by clarifying, I too once had no idea what it was, but my gosh am I loving it now!  A Podcast is a form of digital media that consists of an episodic series of audio or digital radio, subscribed to and downloaded through web syndication or streamed online to a computer or mobile device. The word is portmanteau of "pod" and "broadcast."

......Still confused?

Let me help you with that.  Basically, a Podcast allows you to record audio information, which you are then able to upload it onto the internet.  Your students or staff can then use it as a reference tool via internet-any place, any time!  Awesome right?

Upon searching several podcast sites, I have provided you with three choices to begin your exploration: Soundcloud, Audioboo, Podomatic.

Though each of them provide the same purpose, my personal favorite is using Soundcloud.  Soundcloud allows you to record with unlimited time and is easy to navigate.  Audioboo allows a maximum of 10 minutes and Podomatic, 1 hour.  I will not discourage any of them because they are all awesome, so check them out and choose which one is right for you.  

Moreover, each podcast site offers a deeper look into other podcasts that are created and categorized by topics.  You can search podcast related to news, education, music, sports and much more!  What are you waiting for........

If you not convinced, let me show you how I have create a podcast for my students.  Below you will find a podcast I created to help readers become successful.  

Though this is only one of the many strategies proven to help readers become successful, students, parents and staff can continue listening weekly (or as desired) for more podcasts that become relevant  for a child's success.  

Finally, there are many ways to use podcasts: teachers can provide audio podcasts to deliver additional lessons or support that extend beyond the classroom, students can create a podcast to demonstrate information that has been researched, and librarians can communicate news or provide newly arrived booklists to students....the possibilities are ENDLESS!  

Whatever the reason, a podcast will definitely provide a method of delivering information that will meet the demands of a 21st century technology learner! 

SO ARE YOU READY TO PODCAST??? 

Julie Trevino

Videos and QR Codes in the Library

All About Youtube

With technology growing everyday, Youtube and gradually QR codes have become among the most popular tools used by people of all ages.

Youtube is an excellent site that provides you with an abundance of information that can serve all purposes.  Wether you're looking for a yummy recipe for dinner or instructions on how to do a math problem, Youtube has the answer!

In today's educational world, Youtube is also paving the way to the spotlight and awareness of multiple issues facing students, parents and teachers.  Let's take a closer look on how various schools are incorporating Youtube in their everyday lives.

TheNHSLibrary

Considered one of the most important aspects of the library, librarians are able to upload videos on the instructions on how to use EBSCOHost.  Too often students and sometimes even teachers do not understand or even know what this tool is for.  By creating a Youtube video with its fundamental purpose, librarians are able to save time and provide easy accessibility to all school members.

Always a favorite...when you record a video incorporating teachers and students, it is bound to become a favorite.  Usage of key staff members allows a message to be transmitted with greater appreciation. The teachers at this school decided to use one of the most popular songs on todays' radio and mix it with a groovy dance and theme.  

The Unquiet Library

How to Embed a VoiceThread or Prezi...IN A WIKISPACE, is powerful!  Technology can be difficult, but if you upload a video with the proper steps, you can watch it, take notes and assure you don't miss a step.  The Unquiet Library has done exactly that.  By uploading a step by step process, you eliminate confusion and doubt.  Questions are just a click away!

Among the favorites for students would definitely be the Art Show Preview.  As a student, seeing my art would create an overjoy feeling.  The value of knowing that a message transmitted through art can have an impact on others who are viewing the Youtube channel is impacting.  When uploading a showcase of work, students feel appreciated! 

Yet another reason why Youtbe is such a great idea! 

Pikesville HS Library

Moving on to Pikesville HS Llibrary.  One of the most important features that differentiate middle school to high school are the courses that will have an impact on your college career.  High school can be a stressful chapter to begin.  Every method of assistance will help alleviate any questions and concerns from the students and their parents.  With Youtube videos made accessible, help couldn't be any faster!

Ever wonder which memories will leave an impact on students......?  When you capture several moments throughout the year, the magical effect of Youtube is that you can create a montage of memories that will forever be instilled in student's mind!

Speaking from personal experience, I recently found a high school video that showed the effort and hard work that a band demonstrated through competition.  That memory was mine and it has been triggered by a Youtube video.  Thank you for that! 

Bonnie Branch Middle School Media

As I approach the end of my most helpful and interesting videos found on Youtube uploaded by several libraries, I came across one of the most detrimental lessons that every high school student should learn....citation!  With the severity of plagiarism, a Youtube video elaborating on the effects of citation is critical.  Through the incorporation of a Youtube video, teachers are transmitting an important message. 

Last, but definitely not least, the thematic song from the movie Frozen mixed with an important concept for librarians: OVERDUE BOOKS!  Sadly, at times students do not understand the value of returning books on time.  If we present the value through a popular song, then perhaps the message will become clearer!  And if it doesn't, it was at least worth a shot.  As librarians and educators, we must be willing to explore new boundaries! 

In conclusion, as a future librarian we must find new ways of engaging our students.  With Youtube made extremely simple, librarians can deliver lessons, introduce new books and showcase what students at the campus are doing.  Youtube videos can be an exciting way of assuring the library is not becoming obsolete.  

Show the world what a library is all about and the wonders it can bring to everyone!  

And one more thing.........QR CODES!!!!!

Though I had heard of it several times, I was always hesitant about it.  Never quite sure how to build one myself.  (Sound familiar?)  Say no more, I am infatuated with this technology tool and SO SHOULD YOU!  

After exploring QR Codes I realized there are several ways of incorporating these in the classroom and as a future librarian!  It is an intriguing method of capturing student's attention.  And most importantly, incorporating some of the most popular technology tools among students: phones, tablets, iPads and more! With QR Codes you can advertise a book, increase social following such as Twitter, Blogs and Facebook, or simply promo a video.  Take example the following: 

By using Animoto, I was able to create a book trailer on one my favorite books and most popular among children.  The Day the Crayons Quit is an enjoyable story written by Drew Daywalt.

"Poor Duncan just wants to color. But when he opens his box of crayons, he finds only letters, all saying the same thing: His crayons have had enough! They quit! Beige Crayon is tired of playing second fiddle to Brown Crayon. Black wants to be used for more than just outlining. Blue needs a break from coloring all those bodies of water. And Orange and Yellow are no longer speaking—each believes he is the true color of the sun.

What can Duncan possibly do to appease all of the crayons and get them back to doing what they do best?
 

Kids will be imagining their own humorous conversations with crayons and coloring a blue streak after sharing laughs with Drew Daywalt and New York Times bestseller Oliver Jeffers. This story is perfect as a back-to-school gift, for all budding artists, for fans of humorous books such as Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems and The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Sciezka and Lane Smith, and for fans of Oliver Jeffers' Stuck,The Incredible Book Eating Boy, Lost and Found, and This Moose Belongs to Me."

Using your QR application, scan the QR code to view the trailer.

Don't have one....say no more: 

DOWNLOAD a free QR Code scanner to your phone.

iPhone:

Scan - https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scan-qr-code-barcode-reader/id411206394?mt=8

QR Reader - https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/qr-reader-for-iphone/id368494609?mt=8

Android:

QR Droid - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=la.droid.qr

Scan for Droid - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.scan.android.client

QR Reader for Droid - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uk.tapmedia.qrreader

HOPE YOU ENJOYED AND LEARNED SOMETHING NEW!  

TILL THE NEXT TIME.....JULIE TREVINO

ANYONE BLOGGING??????

Wondering what a blog is.....look no further!  Well, actually yes!  Read the following below....

Even though I thought I had enough knowledge about technology, everyday I am being amazed by how much more I must continue learning!  Though I had heard about blogging, I realize the depth of my knowledge was not enough.

To elaborate, as I do with most things that are foreign to me, I am hesitant about trying new things.  For instance, BLOGGING???  What is that?  How is that different to EVERYTHING else out there?  

It is quite interesting.  As I began exploring multiple blogs, I found a bountiful assortment of wise and creative bloggers that share knowledge, ideas and discussions on relevant topics that can have an influence on people.  Take for instance the following: 

1. http://librariansbookreviews.blogspot.com 
This blog provides an excellent source for book reviews that target our youth readers.  Moreover, you are able to see an assortment of books that are categorized by genre; therefore, making it easier to find a desired book.  As a future librarian, reference tools for books can always be handy!  

2. http://greatkidbooks.blogspot.com
Contrary to the previous blog, GreatKidsBooks provide a reference tool that triggers our younger/elementary population; however, goes all the way up to age 14.  Ever wondering what could be a good book to read to your first grade classes?  Ideas can surely be found here!  This site is not only beneficial to teachers, but can also be utilized by parents.  Great way to keep parents informed! 

3. http://mediaspecialistsguide.blogspot.com/
Among my favorites, A Media Specialist Guide (To the Internet).  How vital is technology to our current or future profession.  Not only does technology affect the educational field, but many others as well.  Technology is difficult, questions and ideas can be found on this blog.  It's a quick go-to-tool that allows essential elements of technology to be addressed and easily implemented in our classrooms and lessons.  

4. http://doug-johnson.squarespace.com
As future librarians, it is vital that we continue exercising our brains with the latest information that  can affect our philosophies and method of instructing our students/classes. The Blue Skunk blog provides numerous topics and articles that are researched and/or written to change our views, in hopes we continue growing and effectively providing the best support to our students. 

5. http://www.thedaringlibrarian.com
Finally, The Daring Librarian.  Filled with enthusiasm and wonderful ideas, this blog transmits an automatic positive message.  As you scroll through her blog, you realize how vital being a librarian is.  Moreover, it encompasses the values that are important to possess.  Once on this blog, and you will continue searching for more!  


Now, if you are wondering, "How does she keep all those blogs in one place, organized and easy to find....?"  There are numerous sites to help you with this.  After exploring multiple sites to assist me (Bloglovin’, Feedly, Bloglines, NewsBlur, Digg Reader, and Newsvibe), I discovered Bloglovin' was very quick to learn and easy to navigate.  Bloglovin provides the ability to find multiple blogs and save them in one place.  Another awesome feature I loved about Bloglovin' was the ability to not only find blogs, but ADD a blog if you were not able to find it through the site.  Great tool for any blogger. 

Blogging is definitely a great tool to use.  As librarians, you can create a blog to promote books, events and encourage all students to visit the library.  Blogging keeps everyone connected and able to be accessed with greater frequency.  In a world where technology has gained popularity, blogging allows an ongoing relevance with today's students!  

Lastly, I invite you to visit my Tumblr page!  Have no fear, Tumblr has very similar characteristics to Pinterest!  Librarians, along with many other people can utilize Tumblr to post pictures, tweets, videos, and many other things.  In addition, you can pin ideas or simply have a location to upload "likes" on specific topics/themes.  As librarians, it's a great tool to keep your library showcased and encourage students to see the value of the library as a place like no other!  I have uploaded several images that show great ideas for librarians!  Take a few minutes to visit other Tumblr users, you will not regret it!  As I continue uploading many more great ideas, I encourage all of you to create your own Tumblr page. It's a challenge, but nonetheless, a great opportunity to continue growth!  
http://futuristicallycoolwonderland.tumblr.com

Till the next time....Julie Trevino! 

Mining PEW: Piktochart

Reading, writing and research in the digital age!

Data can be overwhelming, but when placed onto an infographic, things can become A LOT easier to comprehend.  Numbers speak loud and percentages presented by multiple research can be calling out a imminent change!  

In just a few years, we have seen how technology has gained momentum all around us.  Regardless if it is at home, work, restaurants or even through news reports, technology has influenced how society functions to efficiently transmit a message or task.  In schools, ongoing data and research has proven how effective using technology can be to the success of a child.  My question to you is then, "Why are we still in doubt?"  If research, which is the most valuable tool a teacher can acquire, shows the significant impact that using technology can have, then why are we not taking action.  Students are moving forward with the trend, and if we fail to reflect and accept change into our daily teaching practices, what can we predict will happen to our students.  (HINT) Our teaching practices can become dull, cumbersome, and tiring! 

We cannot change what is OR has happened.  As times continue to evolve, take a few minutes before you plan your next lesson, and ask yourself, "Am I teaching this skill with the best form of engagement and relevance?"  Paper and pencil is not the answer and even a simple video or audio playing can be redundant and overly used.  Don't be afraid to go outside your comfort zone.  If you feel you are not knowledgeable enough to teach with technology, it's ok....students love the opportunity to teach, while learning at the same time.  Explore new boundaries, make mistakes and then learn from them.  Transfer the knowledge that will make today's students into tomorrow's leaders! 

Below you will find a summary of how much technology surrounds our students outside of school!  

Keep in mind....The goal as teachers is to target key concepts and life long skills through the means that is most captivating (like it or not, that is technology). 

To Tweet or Not To Tweet.....That Continues Being the Question!

Just a few years ago, knowing or asking what Twitter was, would have been an awkward and hesitant response of, "I don't know?"  Today, even a 5 year old would be able to provide a sufficient response.  For those of you who yet need to learn what it is.....it is a social media that allows you to communicate with people from all over the world!  ALL OVER THE WORLD!!!!!  That is a powerful tool.  

Growing up, I was under the assumption I was tech savvy.  In comparison to my parents that were limited in technology, I figured I was well prepared for the technology world.  Nevertheless, as time progressed, I realized more and more I was falling behind.  As I got older, I realized things were changing drastically.....and might I mention, never going back to how insignificant the impact on technology was.  Facebook, Twitter and Youtube were gaining momentum.  To be honest, I was very hesitant to change.  I figured texting was enough to continue communication with others.  As I look back to my old perception of technology, I have grown to realize how wrong I was and I often chuckle at the thought how naive my notion was.  

To all those who think the way I used to, it is my mission to make you think otherwise.  Twitter, for instance, is an excellent source of communicating thoughts, knowledge and ideas to an array of subjects and issues!  If you don't like to write much, you are in luck.  Twitter limits the amount of words you message; therefore, communication is quick and straight to the point.  Knowledge is POWER!  What I absolutely love about Twitter is how many people you can meet that have an amazing background experience in a specialized field.  

Let's take a look at Kathy Schrock.

Started a computational thinking page: http://t.co/AeG4AHSsxM Will add more after I take the Google course! https://t.co/3EutthPZW3

— Kathy Schrock (@kathyschrock) July 11, 2015 

What I appreciate about Kathy Schrock is her continued effort to promote technology.  Often too many of us are hesitant about incorporating technology into the classroom.  Among my favorite tweets, Kathy takes us to multiple sites that "serve as the entry point to resources, ideas, tips, and tricks." Technology does not have to be dull or basic.  There are many ways of imbedding technology to increase success in the classroom.


Moving on to Linda W. Braun.

RT @remakelearning: Why building science literacy skills is a key part of #STEAM learning: http://t.co/BeWo2XKILu cc: @STEM_Works

— Linda W Braun (@lbraun2000) August 18, 2015

Miss Linda has ongoing promotion to higher learning.  As times continue to evolve and centralize around key subject areas, Linda Braun is an active leader to making children of today become our future leaders of tomorrow.  As you navigate through her twitter account, you will find multiple conversations and tweets acknowledging how we can grow as educators.


A very enthusiastic and active twitter leader.....Tony Vincent.

Too busy to consider new ways of doing things? #KTC15 pic.twitter.com/3W6k3uPqsd

— Tony Vincent (@tonyvincent) August 3, 2015

Tony Vincent finds innovative and active ways to engage students in an creative classroom.

🏫 25 Clever Classroom Tips For Elementary School Teachers: http://t.co/1rT07GbXBN #KTC15 #elemchat

— Tony Vincent (@tonyvincent) August 3, 2015

Leaders and advocates!  Twitter is an amazing place to find amazing people.  Passion is relayed through a person's words and message.  For Buffy Hamilton, that is exactly what she does......

Telling school librarians with no budget (which is a school choice) to go look for grants to fund media budget is unacceptable.

— Buffy J. Hamilton (@buffyjhamilton) September 1, 2015

Just a few more worthy people to speak about (among the many).  As I continue mentioning AWESOME people in the Twitter world, it's a great time to reflect on what kind of people you would like to "follow."  Personality is conveyed through numerous members, personalities that are contagious to us all!


An absolute joy to follow!

Dare Everyday Wonder More Fear Less Fail / Win Try Again. Be YOU! https://t.co/soDZmUrTnq #EdChat #TLChat

— The Daring Librarian (@GwynethJones) July 20, 2015

A wonderful and ecstatic person that loves their job!  Gwyneth Jones shows us through her messages how to think outside the box and not be afraid of exploring new boundaries.  Explorations that leads to greater success!  Who wouldn't want this?????


Last by not least......Jim Lerman.  A person whose wisdom encourages us all to take an expenditure to the new worlds of technology.

Information Is Beautiful http://t.co/MPhWJxZwu6 pic.twitter.com/Tv1XLXb34h

— Jim Lerman (@jimlerman) June 11, 2015

In conclusion, I leave in hopes that you have become open minded and accepting of this wonderful tool.  Twitter is not a bad thing!  But unfortunately, it will not matter how much I say or comment.  Discovery is just a click a way.  Give it a try and you will not regret it!!!!!!!!!!

TECHNOLOGY.....Good or Bad??????

In a world where technology is dominating daily usage, careers have taken the same path.  As I recall, when I first began teaching, newsletters were the only form of communication.  Slowly, but SURELY, technology made its way.  Soon we bagan having blackboards that would allow communication with all parents and students.  And eventually, students received, the much anticipated, iPads.  Education took a shift.  Change is GOOD!!!!

Teachers now have the ability to post information and create links where children's educational wonders are just a click away.  Answers are immediate and engagement is ongoing.  The truth is, without technology, information wouldn't be as relevant.  TECHNOLOGY IS MAGICAL!!!!!!!

This leads me to my next discussion, how does technology become vital for a librarian????  As educators, regardless of the career, success in a child's education rises with the incorporation of technology! Though many of us (including myself) have been skeptical about joining Facebook or Twitter, it's only the first step that is the hardest.  After joining you begin realizing what a great thing it is!

Let's take a dive into Facebook.

After exploring numerous sites, I couldn't believe how amazing each school/librarian had incorporated Facebook to promote reading.  Unfortunately, it's a sadden truth to realize students are gradually loosing interest in books.  However, when you promote reading through Facebook the response is exciting.  Librarians can post book trailers, video clips, or books that are showing a rising trend among students at their school and/or age level.  Students are often unaware of what books are gaining popularity, but the second you post it onto a social media, the response takes an elevation.  Furthermore, other great ideas librarians have incorporated onto Facebook, is the usage and posting of student photos.  When you see the interaction that a library can bring, more students begin seeking the same experiences.  Librarians can add future events such as a book club meetings, or activities conducted by staff.  Schools should be a place where fun happens, while learning remains active!  But be aware, with everything that is great, there will also be disadvantages.  Most definitely, with social media there will be risks and setbacks that will make any person feel unease. What if someone post inappropriate language or photos?  Who will have access to the webpage?  Will parents be supportive?  Will my administrators approve of social media in the school?  My best advice......be informed and educated about the topic.  When you understand all the perspectives, you can find the solutions and response to the issue.  Work together and find a common goal.

In conclusion, social media can create opportunities for learning.  Times are changing, and if we refuse to move with it, WE will be the ones falling between the gaps!  As educators it is detrimental that we remain open minded and reflective about our teaching practices.  Are we providing the best education, in the best mode of transmission?????

GIVE SOCIAL MEDIA A THUMBS UP......YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!!!!!!!