Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Why do this Learning 2.0 program?
This is a great opportunity to spend time on your personal and professional development. All library staff need to be up-to-date with the latest trends and technology tools that Web 2.0 is bringing us everyday. We need to take time to learn how the tools can be utilised in or by our library. And we will know what our library users, especially younger ones, are talking about!

How does this online learning program work?
This is a self-discovery program that allows participants to take control of their own learning. Participants are encouraged to work together with others in their teams, work areas, or people in other parts of the library and to share their insights and discoveries with others through their blogs and in person. Licence 2 Test Drive at the State Library of Queensland is web-based and not tied to any particular computer. You can work on this program anywhere you like even in your living room.

Is there any tech support?
We can assist you with the course, but not your computer or Internet connection, for those you will need to contact the Help Desk.

Do any of the activities require downloads?
Most of the activities use Web-based applications that do not require additional downloads or plug-ins to work. It's a good idea to check that you have Flash and sound on your PC to begin with.

Who can participate?
This program is open to all State Library of Queensland, Queensland public library, Indigenous Knowledge Centre and Queensland government library staff.

Does it cost anything to participate?
Only your time.

How many staff can participate?
All State Library of Queensland, Queensland public library, Indigenous Knowledge Centre and Queensland government library staff are able to participate. There is no limit to the number of staff who can participate.

Some staff work part time, is it necessary for them to complete each theme on time, or can they double-up on sessions they have missed?
The program is designed so you can complete your themes at any time that suits. You can do it all in a blitz for an hour or so one day a fortnight if that suits rostering requirements better, or set aside two x 30 minute chunks of time to do your learning.

Do I need to register our section or do staff sign up individually?
Staff will register individually as part of the course.

How will you measure my progress?
You will work through the exercises individually at your own pace tracking your progress through a blog you will set up in Test Drive 1 as part of this learning process. Please use your blog to write your reactions to the lessons and add any ideas you may have on how to use Web 2.0 tools for yourself and your library. This is your time to experiment, have fun, and learn at your own pace.

Can I blog anonymously?
To be eligible for the prize draw, you cannot blog anonymously.

Will I be able to see other people’s blogs?
Yes, all participants’ blogs will be linked to the website.

How do I register my blog?
Setting up and registering your blog are two of the activities you will accomplish in Test Drive 1. You must complete the pre-survey and registration form found at the top right hand of this page. You will receive an e-mail confirmation of registration. We will add your blog to the main Licence 2 Test Drive blog by the title of your blog--check the Participant’s blog list on the sidebar for your blog. This may take a few days, since we must add them manually. We will not list your name; only your blog's name. If your blog has not appeared within 3 business days, email Mary.kajewski@slq.qld.gov.au with your name, the blog name, and URL.

How many passwords will I need?
You will need a gmail account (this will give you access to blogger, and you can use the same username and password for bloglines). To access Flickr you will need a Yahoo e-mail account. All other password or logins are optional so you can get by with two new usernames/e-mail accounts and passwords). You can reuse these passwords for other logins such as delicious, library thing and zoho MAKE SURE YOU WRITE THESE DOWN AND KNOW WHERE TO FIND THEM!!

How long do I have to complete the program?
Participants who wish to receive a certificate of completion and be eligible for prizes must register their blogs before 16 May and complete all the activities (and blog about each one) by 1 July 2009. Registration begins 16 March 2009.

What if staff take leave and can’t complete the program in the timeframe?
The program will remain on the website until the end of 2009. You will not be eligible for prizes.

How will you know I have completed the course?
The course coordinators will be reading and tracking participants’ blogs.

Can anyone see my blog?
Yes, all participants’ blogs will be linked to the website but you will all be anonymous. Remember you are writing in a public space. Keep the code of conduct in mind.

How much do I have to write in my blog posts?
Each blog post must describe which activity you have completed, what your learning experience was --easy, hard, impossible--ideas on using what you have learned in the workplace and other comments on the process. While we don't expect a ‘chapter’ on every theme, we do expect thoughtful reflection and active participation. Single line posts or those that show perfunctory participation will not be counted. Feel free to use dot points. As a guide aim for 150 words for each blog post.Sometimes it is easier to focus on a particular subject or specialty area for your blog. You may like to concentrate on Web 2.0 examples for adult education, local studies, ESL or anything else that will inspire you to search broadly and experiment.Explore with the lesson in mind as a guide. This will keep you on track and save time. It is easy to get side tracked into other explorations. Return to them once the main lesson has been processed.

Will there be any other in person training?
Staff are encouraged to work together with others in their section and share with each other their discoveries, techniques and tips both in person and through their blogs. You are encouraged to be resourceful and find a learning advocate, co-worker or another staff member who can help. Be sure to share your knowledge and expertise too! We will provide helpful hints, encouraging words, and post comments on your blogs from time to time. The Licence 2 Test Drive team will be online for 30 minutes each week to answer any questions. Details will be released with each Test Drive. slq's monthly Emerging media and new technology sessions will highlight the month's Test Drive themes.

I noticed some of the activities have a section headed Adventure. What is this and do I have to do it?
The Adventures are there for those participants who are already familiar with that particular activity and want to learn more and/or for those who are intrigued by what they have learned doing the first parts of the activity. The Adventures are all optional; you do not have to do those parts to have completed the activity. If you do one or more of the Adventures, be sure to blog about it!

Who are the members of the Licence 2 Test Drive @ the State Library of Queensland Team?
Your main contact will be Mary Kajewski from Public Library Services and OPAL Training. You can reach me at mary.kajewski@slq.qld.gov.au .