Podcasts, YouTube, Overdrive

The last assignment for our Learning 2.0 projects was to learn about Podcasts, YouTube, and Overdrive. I have watched music videos, and how-to videos several times on YouTube, in the past. I tried to log in as directed to learn how to upload a video, but to no success. I spent some time on the iTunes site learning what Podcasts are (free video or audio downloads, that can be viewed or listened to on a computer, iPod, iPhone, or Apple TV). I was unsuccessful trying to figure out how to access the list of available downloads. Finally, I checked out Overdrive. None of the links worked at all for that site. Overall, a rather frustrating experience.

Top 100 sites from Web 2.0

I found an interesting list of websites to puruse. I was familiar with several of them, such as Craig's List and Netflix. I looked at "Remember the Milk", which is a way to organize your "to do" list. I also spent some time on FotoFlexer.com. It provides many ways to alter your photos, such as adding animation, eliminating the background from an object, retouching, distorting, and doddling over a photo. Sounds like fun!

Tagging

As close as I can tell, tagging is like creating your own Sears subject headings. Though obviously not regulated, it is very helpful when searching for sites, as well as drawing other people to your own. Technorati seemed to be a helpful site to locate other interesting blogs, etc.

It's been interesting learning about RSS and newsreaders. I think it would save lots of time for things that I follow on a daily basis. At this point, however, Google is blocking me from opening the articles, so I will have to look into that, or perhaps try it on my home computer.

Libraries might use this by having a link to local newspapers and other items of local interest on their homepage.

Flickr

I explored Flickr for the first time today. It can be addicting to just go through photos posted over the last 7 days - such creative photography, and places seen from around the world. It would be a fun site to be able to share photos with family, rather than having to email them.

7 1/2 Habits of Learning

The easiest habit for me is #5 - Create your own learning toolbox. I have lots of experience learning new things by reading books, websites, etc., taking classes, and asking others for advice.

The most difficult habit for me is #3 - View problems as challenges. When I come across a problem, it is easy to get frustrated, rather than look at it as a learning opportunity.