The Learning!

Hi Again

It has been a week of a steep learning! This weeks buzz word is RSS - Really simple syndication. I worked out what it means and have done plenty of reading, but what does an RSS look like, what does it do and why should I use one? I must admit that I thought it was a communications system similar to IM (instant messaging) but it is much more!


Following the RSS tutorial helped the penny drop and I had that 'eureka' moment. RSS is much more - the ability to subscribe to websites, blogs etc of any particular subject or topic and then have instant access and display of the top posts for the day. How cool! I can keep upto date with the latest info, news, events and discussions that occur on a global level for free and from my home or work pc. The next part is a bit tricky - which RSS links to choose, what information do I want to access, is the information relevant and accurate in content and the steps I need to do to link the RSS list onto this blog.

The second part of my learning has been through helping another blogger inserting graphics into a blog. It is so easy and I only wish that frontpage had the same format (which is why I use coffee cup for my web pages www.violablue.com.au!) I'll include some happy snaps at a later date but thought to display two types of Nixies (just in case you were wondering what one is!) Nixie Clock developed in 1952 ("Numeric Indicator eXperimental No. 1" - very retro and coming back into fashion) . Have a great day and enjoy - Purplenixiegirl

Friday Blog

Hi There

It is Friday and my blog is one week old. During the week I have been doing some reading about Web 2 theory and am brushing up on my technical terms (jargon!) RSS, COPs etc. I am finding the 23 things program ties in so well with my current unit of study - it is great to back theory with a practical application.

I am trying to imagine what the ECU library would be like once these new communication technologies are in place. How long will it take - a gradual introduction or a spectacular launch? Would there be a decline in patron numbers using the library because everything required for research will be online via the web (from home!). How much will this technology cost? Will everyone be on the most expensive broad band plan?

It is true that information content doubles in volume every 2 years on a global scale so it will be interesting to see how much more information is created and the validity and creativity of content. Will assignments, study and papers become easier to research if a question is thrown into a cyberspace community? Will this extend beyond the written word and encompass an exchange of ideas for the visual arts, video, music (manuscript, midi) etc. I look forward to it!
PurpleNixieGirl

Blog Debut

Hello to everyone and welcome to my very first blog-space as part of the Learning 2.0 programme at ECU. I am looking forward to participating in an online community, the exposure to new communication technologies and being able to understand how they all work and if there is a real time effect on bringing people together in cyberspace.

My first experience in setting up a blog was ok - thanks to the wizard function and the preview of templates. Wizards are fantastic and are like trustworthy friends once you have been through a few.

Making a decision on names, colours and passwords was the tricky part; so many to choose from and "oh no" another password. Thanks to Klickety (the master blogger) for assistance in the decision making process. I am happy that I can change my mind on the blog design - which is a good thing as I love change. A blog will become a part of your person and I am certain that the graphics/layout would not feel as fresh or be as inspirational if it was a permanent display.

Good luck to you all and I hope that you enjoy the ride!

Cheers
PurpleNixieGirl