We all know that self-paced, anytime, anyplace learning has many advantages, and because they are the best cost effective way to get the most learning to the most people, those courses will always make up the bulk of WebJunction’s course catalog. But we also know that self-paced courses are not the only way to learn, and many of us really miss the social interaction of an instructor and classmates. So we are trying out some new, instructor-led, live-online courses that we hope you will really like.
We are pleased to announce we have just added five such new courses to our catalog. These courses are exclusively offered for WebJunction members by Amigos Library Services – the largest library consortia in the southwest, and one of the top providers of quality continuing education for library staff in the country. They are all on library-specific topics, and our initial focus this fall is on Technical Services.
The first classes start just after labor day, so now is a good time to take a look and sign up. You can see all the course listings together, read the full descriptions and enroll in the Amigos category of our Course Catalog. But as always – if you are a member of any of our State or Provincial Partners, make sure you go to the catalog on that Partner’s site instead to take advantage of some steep discounts.
Here are titles, dates and short descriptions of the courses. You can find more info in the catalog.
MARC 101 – September 8 & 9
A beginner level introduction to MARC format; this course is intended for participants who are new to MARC. Topics covered include a brief history of MARC, organization and structure of a MARC record, definition of common MARC terminology, MARC formats and use of OCLC’s Bibliographic Formats and Standards for help with understanding MARC code.
Tools for the Reference Desk – September 17 & 24
Do you want to learn how to implement Web technologies in your reference desk? This course explores a variety of online tools, from blogs, wikis, to free chat software and web-based platforms from which you can engage your users at the reference desk. Come learn how to utilize several free online tools in your reference activities.
Tech Topics: Library 2.0 – September 28
For some, Library 2.0 is new and uncharted territory. For others, it’s the same thing we’ve been doing for years. Find out where the term originated, what it actually means, and how it intertwines with Web 2.0. You’ll see live demonstrations of Library 2.0-type implementations, discuss its ramifications for your library and the profession.
FRBR – What it is and how it can help you prepare for RDA - October 13 & 15
FRBR (Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records) was created in 1998 and is the basis for the new RDA (Resource Description and Access). RDA is slated to replace AACR2 and be released in early 2010. Come and explore the new vocabulary and the bones of FRBR. By identifying FRBR, you are ready to recognize RDA when it is completed. Lively discussion is encouraged.
Basic Digitization: Everyday Imaging – November 11 & 12
This online workshop provides a solid introduction to library staff who want to start using digital imaging technology for ILL, web pages and other basic applications.