At the beginning of the month, I had the opportunity to go to Anchorage with the other library VISTAs for a conference on digital literacy. We were able to participate in a bunch of presentations on different topics regarding digital literacy to bring back to our communities. The trip to Anchorage was wonderful, and the information is super important. In the age of technology that is increasingly placing importance on the ability to operate computers, libraries can play an important role in providing educational opportunities to the public.
There is a very wide range of skills when it comes to digital literacy in Coffman Cove. We have plenty of folks that operate computers on a daily basis, know how to set up websites, take classes online, and can use tablets. On the other hand, there are a number of people that are a lot less familiar. In the week before the conference, I helped a few community members use a search engine for the first time. It can be really overwhelming to get acquainted with new technology (heck, every time my iphone software updates, I feel like I am learning a new machine), so I always try to remind people that it can be frustrating to learn, and that is normal. While I may have more knowledge when it comes to working computers, I don't know how to fall a tree, fix a car, or build a house! I was able to learn a lot at the conference that will help me with figuring out instruction for community members all across this spectrum.
Since coming back from Anchorage, I've been struggling to get jump started back onto my routine. This week, I think I finally have it down, starting with my list for the day with my tea and oatmeal. There are a few more things on the list that I have to write down, but it's all about the jumping off point, right?
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