tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56709606208420504822024-03-13T09:15:50.352-05:00Glitter in Her VeinsMusings on Autoimmune DiseasesMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-42244002323836132722011-07-03T16:23:00.001-05:002011-07-03T16:26:01.494-05:00Great NewsSo, I haven't posted in a little while. I'm sorry. I want to post at least twice a week, but with everything going on that hasn't been happening lately. It may not happen in the near future either. I have a job. At Murray State University. As a reference librarian. With Business liaison (I really like that word for some reason) duties. I'm an emergency hire (which means if they just hate me or I suck at my job, they can get rid of me next year), but I'm not worrying about that right now. I'm gonna bust my ass. Hopefully, that'll work in my favor come Spring.<br />
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The paperwork is mostly done. I actually started work on July 1st. I'm not allowed to mess with the tech stuff yet (have to go through all the HR stuff next week), but I did get to settle in a little. One of the reference librarians showed me around and walked me through a few things. The librarians and staff are just great. They don't mind answering my silly questions and seem pretty relaxed as a group. They all seem to get along and play off each others' strengths and weaknesses. It's nice to see a group of people mesh that way. I've worked several jobs where the people did not get along as a group and couldn't get work done. MSU is way different. I already feel included and like my work will be valued. It's a damn nice feeling. <br />
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I've got lots to do this Summer and during the Fall semester. I've got an entire set of LibGuides to play with, accreditation work, instruction duties, reference duties, collection development duties, etc. I'm also going to be working with a couple (few, dozen, ?) committees. I find I don't mind the prospect as much as I thought. Throughout all of this, I'm going to be working on some of my own research and attempting publication at some point. <br />
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I'm overwhelmed, overjoyed, and looking forward to this coming week. I'm excited and nervous all at the same time, and it's got my stomach all in knots. But it's wonderful. I love library work. Especially academic library work. It just never feels like "work" to me. I get to help people find info, help people learn how to find their own info, research, write, contribute, and feel productive. And I don't have to stay in one spot at a little cubicle all day. I have various duties that keep me moving (mentally and physically). It's just...wonderful. So damn wonderful. <br />
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Ok. I'm done with the sparkly-eyed wonder of finally being an academic librarian. I'm sure I'll find something to bitch about this semester. Life's no fun without a few complaints. :)<br />
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I'll try to keep up with posting. Maybe a few things from my work. But I'm focusing on the reference position, so the blog comes second. I'm hoping I can blog on the weekends, but I make no promises.<br />
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Happy Fourth of July!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-25310047954600200352011-06-05T14:00:00.000-05:002011-06-05T14:00:16.511-05:00Personal Happy Post<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">So, I was all freaking out about my 29<sup>th</sup> birthday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s one year from 30, boo hoo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Woe is me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">But apparently 29 is going to be an awesome year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got asked out while walking the corgi pup, I’m tan, I have a job, I got asked out again at an auto parts store, I figured out how to recharge the AC in my car all by myself, I helped start a community garden, I got a job, I got a Kindle (thanks Hubby), I found some wonderful art by a local artist, I got a job, a new accessory store opened in the mall, I have wonderful shoes, I got a job, and I got a job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And all that’s been in the last ten days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seriously, I’m employed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At an academic library!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I actually had to turn down another potential job in order to take this one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How awesome is that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I met with the reference team and the Dean last Thursday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are such a cool bunch of people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Dean was helping move shelves for frack’s sake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve only met a few people in higher up positions willing to do grunt work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s nice to see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’ve got so many things going on right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The library is getting some renovations, including some new tech.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m really excited about working at this place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’m nervous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always do this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get nervous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, the first day I’m all badass and sassy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll be fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll post more about this once all the paper work goes through. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Oh, I also received a copy of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/the-digital-cuttlefish-omnibus/13834233?productTrackingContext=search_results/search_shelf/center/5">The Digital Cuttlefish Omnibus</a></i> for my birthday (thanks Mom).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In celebration of such fantabulousness, I am posting a pic of a truly geeked out collection of cephalopod paraphernalia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Janq7CYjCbo/TevRuJtzVWI/AAAAAAAAABc/uZ-UhftvS2A/s1600/PICT0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Janq7CYjCbo/TevRuJtzVWI/AAAAAAAAABc/uZ-UhftvS2A/s400/PICT0054.JPG" t8="true" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, I will be wearing that necklace.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">I'll be back soon with more library topics. I'm in the middle of a few at home projects I need to get out of the way. </span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-41654009017330882472011-05-27T12:24:00.002-05:002011-05-27T12:24:47.474-05:00Webinar Participation: The Fine Art of Weeding<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I’ve developed a love of weeding in libraries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Libraries need healthy collections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weeding, much like in gardening, helps them accomplish this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’ll admit it’s taken me years to gain an appreciation for this task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think working on a mock collection development policy for a hospital library helped raise my awareness.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Keri Cascio presented “Culling Your Collection: The Fine Art of Weeding” through <a href="http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alcts/index.cfm">ALCTS</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cascio is a branch manager for the <a href="http://www.youranswerplace.org/">St. Charles City-County Library District.</a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">She started off with several reasons why librarians should weed collections:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Space </b>– Libraries need shelf space, and even utilizing compact shelving may not solve all the space problems a library has.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Books sitting on shelves also cost money-just sitting there.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Time</b> – Getting rid of unnecessary materials can help streamline shelving processes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can also help patrons find the items they need quicker.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Appeal</b> – As much as I like antique books and jewelry, I don’t like “old” or “dirty” books and jewelry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know the difference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One has value and enriches a collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other is a piece of junk, sometimes an unsanitary piece of junk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have a bunch of junk in your collection, patrons are going to lose interest.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Reputation</b> – Are you up to date?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can your patrons find relevant and reliable information?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or do you still have books listing Pluto as a planet on your shelves?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Textbooks outdated?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Medical and technical texts more than a few years old?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve walked into libraries with out of date testing manuals, out of date technical certification manuals, and out of date medical books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’ve walked right back out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is no excuse for that.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Collection Needs</b> – Weeding can help you see what’s missing in your collection, what you have too much of, and what you need to repair/replace.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Collection Strengths and Weaknesses </b>– Weeding places librarians into the thick of the collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They gain a familiarity with items they may have never seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Librarians also come away from the weeding process knowing the strengths and weaknesses of the collection and possibly how to work with those variables.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Cascio also discussed the <a href="http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/ld/pubs/crew/"><span style="color: blue;">Texas State Libraries and Archives Commission CREW method</span></a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>CREW stands for Continuous Review, Evaluation, and Weeding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check out the link for more info. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Weeding seems, at least to me, to be based on common sense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t keep irrelevant and outdated titles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep your collection up to date and appropriate for your patron base.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know it’s difficult to let go, but it’s necessary to maintain a relevant collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, keep in mind that if you can get a title elsewhere (ILL anyone?) why bother keeping it on your shelves, especially if it hasn’t been checked out for years?</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Cascio did mention some very important points concerning weeding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It takes time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes, it takes lots and lots of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have to plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And starting small is better than not starting at all, especially if your librarians are new to weeding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, make sure your library has policies regarding weeding (on purchases, gifts, etc.).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It saves libraries trouble in the long run.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The webinar closed with some sample policies from various libraries and some options for disposal (sales, recycling, donations, etc.).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All in all it was a good presentation and reinforced my admiration for weeding and the librarians capable of getting this important job done. </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-63236854397777602282011-05-23T13:25:00.002-05:002011-05-23T13:25:31.289-05:00Early B-day Present<span class="messageBody">I got a Kindle!!! My hubby just gave me my b-day present early. Bloody hell! I got a Kindle!!!!!!!!!!!</span>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-58672939049980177212011-05-22T13:41:00.000-05:002011-05-22T13:41:46.129-05:00It's the End of the World as We Know It! Or Not.I had a wonderful day yesterday. My neighbors, their kids, and I dug up a garden bed for a small community garden. I've got blisters and bug bites. :)<br />
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We decided pizza and beer would be a great idea last night. We all wanted to celebrate the world not ending in addition to the garden. I didn't come inside until about four this morning, so I'm tired and sore. But I feel accomplished about the garden. And snarky about the world not ending. I guess all those rapture morons will have to wait for the sun to go flooy just like everyone else.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-90704292755424383612011-05-20T10:19:00.000-05:002011-05-20T10:19:35.876-05:00I Can Haz Job?I have an interview in about an hour. Nervous but wearing a fabulous dress. :) <br />
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I've actually snagged the possibility of a couple more interviews in the coming weeks at more libraries. I'm excited!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-35893837632008365622011-05-16T16:09:00.002-05:002011-05-16T16:09:26.766-05:00Monday Summary: Video Games and Stealth Assessment-Sneaky Teachers<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I just read the neatest little article.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyone reading bits of my blog knows I’m a critical thinking geek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also happen to love adventure video games.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re really great at developing critical thinking skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m even thinking of ways to incorporate some of my favorites from BigFish Games into information literacy courses as a way to encourage critical thinking skills in fun ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I never thought of the sneaky uses detailed in this article.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Article: Kaya, Travis. (2010). “A ‘Stealth Assessment’ Turns to Video Games to Measure Thinking Skills.” <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Chronicle of Higher Education,</i> 57(12).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A13. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.</b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Kaya gets Valerie Shute (<a href="http://myweb.fsu.edu/vshute/publications.html">here’s her webpage</a>), an associate professor of educational psychology at Florida State University, to discuss stealth assessment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In order to test students’ thinking skills, among other things, without inducing test anxiety, Shute has utilized video games.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students already grow up playing games.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re enjoyable and can reduce anxiety rather than causing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also helps that video games can be used in the classroom without the students realizing they’re being tested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It conveys more realistic results to professors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Shute sees stealth assessment as a way of modernizing teaching for groups of all ages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Video games can draw students by increasing the desire of a student to participate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It increases the relevance of some course projects by modernizing the instruction and gaining the students interest.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">A couple of games in the article interested me right away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Shute designed a computer game (Smithtown) for undergraduates several years back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It helped them learn microeconomics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think about that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A game for learning microeconomics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How cool is that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students had to alter economic factors and look at the results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It ended up teaching important lessons about scientific inquiry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the students altered too many variables, they wouldn’t be able to determine the cause and effect relationship of their experiments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students learned to be patient, work with smaller numbers of variables, and dig out the actual cause/effect relationships.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The second game is another game promoted for in-class use by Shute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was created by the University of Indiana’s Center for Research on Learning and Technology.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://worked_examples.crlt.indiana.edu/projects/5">Taiga Park</a> deals with ecology.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students have to investigate the cause of a large scale fish die-off. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They get to interview witnesses and business owners and learn about basic scientific principles involved in ecological research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It just sounds neat!</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I think I may have to give Shute a hug if I ever meet her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is awesome stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the twenty-first century.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I swear when I finally get hold of a librarian position, I’m going to be pushing video games for the info lit courses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot think a better way to engage college age students and still get them learning. </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-58190412512353618662011-05-08T17:25:00.002-05:002011-05-08T17:25:47.194-05:00My thoughts on Wikipedia<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I’ve been asked what I think about Wikipedia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I thought I’d post a few comments.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Many moons ago I told my composition students to avoid wikis at all costs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wikipedia was the devil and to be shunned like a red-headed step-child. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hated it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was always the first thing students looked at, and many of them never wanted to move beyond it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I banned Wikipedia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Then, as I started doing more and more online research for fun (geek, remember), I found that Wikipedia wasn’t so bad as a preliminary resource.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes I’ll need a quick explanation about a time period, character, book, band, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wikipedia is pretty reliable as far as that goes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I even post links to Wikipedia articles on this blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like to use other sources, but it is quick and easy to read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, it gets utilized regularly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">HOWEVER, and this is important so pay attention, Wikipedia should never be used as a resource for a bibliography or citation in a research paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I repeat, do not quote this as a scholarly source.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wiki’s, by their very nature, tend to have the occasional inaccuracy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can often be edited by non-experts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When conducting important research, especially for educational purposes and citations, look for scholarly and reputable sources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t use Wikipedia in those cases.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I suppose that’s all I can really say on the subject.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t have any kind of bone to pick with Wikipedia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I now think wikis are important aspects of the online world, and they can be useful for preliminary research, study sessions, or just fun facts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I don’t depend on them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I try to find other sources from more scholarly authors when I can.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-66716630585644878202011-05-08T02:09:00.000-05:002011-05-08T02:09:11.501-05:00Database Reviews!!!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I think I’m gonna start reviewing <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bibliographic_database">bibliographic databases</a> on this blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gives me a way to review over the many databases I’ve used in the past and discover new databases for future use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any librarian worth her salt needs to be familiar with a variety of databases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This little task should keep me up to date while I wait for gainful employment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I’m not setting a day every week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m just going to post as I dig through some databases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My goal is to post once a week on this, but I make no promises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to try to vary the subject focus, so I won’t just be posting general or humanities or biology databases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This may also be useful for some of my readers not in the realm of library science.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students at all levels should be familiar with at least a few databases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Knowing where to look online is important for research efficiency, especially given that a great deal of research is done online nowadays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may also learn something you don’t know about the library world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could be fun.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This week I’m just going to give some general information regarding bibliographic databases.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Most of the time bibliographic databases are just called databases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The basic format is just what it sounds like:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A bibliography of articles or other resources located online.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I associate databases with universities and colleges, but your public library is bound to have access to a few (<a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases">here’s an example from the New York Public Library</a>).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A database is searchable and gives researchers a chance to find citations and interesting information resources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These databases can also list where the item is located (for instance, if your university owns the item).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many databases have access to full-text articles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This wasn’t the case several years back, but given how popular they are, <a href="http://searchsqlserver.techtarget.com/definition/full-text-database">full-text databases</a> are becoming the norm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This is awesome for patrons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As long as you have your institution’s codes, you can access research anywhere you have internet access.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This also makes it easier to access information 24/7.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having gone through two graduate schools, I can say this kind of access becomes vital to a student’s life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My last graduate degree was online.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Accessing my university’s libraries would have required a five hour drive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ability to access articles and citations (useful for local <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interlibrary_loan">ILL</a>) made the degree possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s also nice having the ability to research while in your pajamas.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Databases can be general in that they’ll cover a little bit of everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or they can be subject specific.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Subject specific databases can be broad and cover all the hard sciences or the humanities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can also be very specific and just cover fields like nursing or psychology.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are literally hundreds of databases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No person is expected to know them all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least that’s not the impression I got working on my library science degree (oh, there are databases just for library science).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Databases are often found as aggregators.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This means multiple databases can be searched simultaneously, using a common search interface.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The search screen (with all the fun search boxes) you’re looking at may just cover one database or it may contain several databases (an aggregator).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aggregators make it easier for a user to search without having to dig through all the database descriptions to find the “right” one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This can, however, cause problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An aggregator is only as good as the least efficient database.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s just like in team sports.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The team is just as good as the weakest player.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Searching in some aggregators can be less fruitful than just searching in a lone database if the aggregator contains a database with inefficient search capabilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As far as I know, this is getting worked out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve not encountered too many problems myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">That said, whether using lone databases or aggregators, conducting multiple searches is in a researcher’s best interest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too many times I’ve seen students walk away from research with the first handful or articles they find, usually complaining later when they have trouble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot stress this enough:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Utilize multiple databases if you can, conduct multiple searches using a variety of search terms, and don’t be so lazy as to take the first article you find!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Research is hard work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You cannot expect good results with a five minute database session.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Ok.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think I’ve covered enough tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would also like to point out to my readers that having trouble with databases is normal, especially to new researchers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Searching these badboys can be overwhelming to new users.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know what’s the best way through this initial awkwardness and fear?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A librarian!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have trouble, a librarian can help you figure out what database to use and how to efficiently search said database.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And many academic libraries offer <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library_instruction">bibliographic instruction</a> sessions focusing on the use of online databases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Research is a skill that takes education and practice to master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take advantage of what libraries and librarians offer you in this regard.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-66337531948969609192011-05-06T20:49:00.002-05:002011-05-06T20:49:31.733-05:00Friday Fallacy: Argumentum ad ignorantiam<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">So, it’s been a little while since I posted a Friday Fallacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been focusing on the job search.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, we had the wonderful week of storms and flooding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Kroger down the road flooded. Luckily, the liquor store next to it is on a hill and they sandbagged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kroger was nice enough to donate the food from the store, so it should have helped some of the displaced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">So, this week’s fallacy is a fun one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argument_from_ignorance">argument from ignorance</a> is pretty much what it says.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People will try to argue the validity of something because it hasn’t been disproven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, let’s say that I tell you the reason vacuums get that icky odor when they break is because of a microscopic vacuum skunk living inside the vacuum engine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You argue that’s not the case, but don’t really understand the exact mechanical cause creating the icky odor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since you can’t tell me the mechanical details and since you can’t disprove the existence of the microscopic vacuum skunk, I declare victory in the debate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The microscopic vacuum skunk causes the icky odor and, since you couldn’t give me an immediate alternative or disprove the mvs, I’m convinced you’re wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s aggravating, and it’s also an argument from ignorance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">It’s like when people argue for the existence of an afterlife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s absolutely zero proof of life after death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s also nothing conclusively disproving life after death either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The appropriate state of mind is to not accept something until there is at least some evidence, but many people believe in a life after death (Heaven, Hell, Summerland, Valhalla, reincarnation, etc.).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These people will sometimes argue that they could be right by using the argument from ignorance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because no one has yet to disprove life after death, they argue that they must be correct in assuming reincarnation or heaven, or hell, or whatever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Just because we don’t know something for sure, doesn’t mean you can just pull something out of your nether regions and claim it’s factual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need verifiable proof.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">There is one important note I should mention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think the “<a href="http://www.csun.edu/~dgw61315/fallacies.html#Argumentum%20ad%20ignorantiam">Logical Fallacies and Art of Debate</a>” website says it best:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><a href="" name="Argumentum_ad_ignorantiam"></a><span style="color: windowtext;">Whether or not an <i>argumentum ad ignorantiam </i>is really fallacious depends crucially upon the burden of proof. In an American courtroom, where the burden of proof rests with the prosecution, it would be fallacious for the prosecution to argue, "The defendant has no alibi, therefore he must have committed the crime." But it would be perfectly valid for the defense to argue, "The prosecution has not proven the defendant committed the crime, therefore you should declare him not guilty." Both statements have the form of an <i>argumentum ad ignorantiam</i>; the difference is the burden of proof. </span></div><div style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In debate, the proposing team in a debate round is usually (but not always) assumed to have the burden of proof, which means that if the team fails to prove the proposition to the satisfaction of the judge, the opposition wins. In a sense, the opposition team's case is assumed true until proven false. </span></div><div style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br />
</div>There are a zillion other example of this fallacy and several varieties of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel free to post some examples in the comments if you feel so inclined.<span style="color: windowtext;"></span>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-85313029434943174202011-05-01T17:29:00.003-05:002011-05-01T17:31:58.664-05:00LIS 623 Course Summary: Information in the Humanities<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">As usual with graduate school, this course had an uber ton of readings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll be honest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I had a sense of déjà vu out of an article, I’d usually skim it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The course textbook was neat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Humanities-Selective-Guide-Information-Sources/dp/1563086026/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1304289063&sr=1-7">The Humanities:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A Selective Guide to Information Sources</a></em>, by Ron Blazek and Elizabeth Aversal, was primarily one big annotated bibliography.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fifth edition was published in 2000, so it is a little outdated.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">One of our main projects consisted of updating the textbook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My group worked on the sections covering Philosophy and Religion, Mythology, & Folklore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was fun (yes, I’m a geek).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I updated some of the resources already included and added a few more relevant sources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since 9-11-2001, the atheist community has grown and gained more visibility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since the textbook had absolutely zero resources pertaining to freethinkers, non-religious folks, and/or atheists, I added a handful of sources on those topics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The professor informed us she wanted to update the text and had been in contact with the publishers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I’ve yet to hear anything back from her regarding the update.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I suppose the most important knowledge, in addition to the tons of humanities resources, I took away from the course involved the information needs of humanities scholars and students.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I have a MA in Literature and I’ve worked in a small academic library, I can attest to the general accuracy of the claims.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">As a general rule, Humanities scholars:</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span>Work independently, as opposed to more team efforts by scientists (look at article by-lines to see this in action)</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span>Like to browse</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span>Use a variety of subjects and sources as opposed to other fields (personal experience: I’ve written conference papers requiring the use of sources from literature, history, religion, philosophy and the sciences-all in the same paper)</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span>Utilize “chaining” (citation tracking, following works cited of relevant articles in order to find more resources)</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span>Utilize technology to a lesser degree than other fields (this is changing with the newer generations of humanities students and scholars)</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">We also worked through numerous sets of reference questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each set contained ten ready reference and five more complicated reference questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The professor forbid the use of Google “on pain of death.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each set covered a different subject in the Humanities and gave me lots of reference practice in addition to my library assistant duties at WKCTC.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-6910038634630808552011-04-30T20:21:00.000-05:002011-04-30T20:21:25.332-05:00LIS 608 (Research Course) and LIS 603 (Management Course)<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">LIS 608 focused on researching in the field of library science.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think the <a href="http://blog.libraryjournal.com/annoyedlibrarian/2011/04/06/but-what-about-the-academics/">Annoyed Librarian had a wonderful summary of the research and publication experience in our field</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can seem oddly simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, this course did cover the details of interviews, observations, surveys, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I actually conducted an observation of a circulation desk at a local academic library.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I discovered I have better observation skills than I realized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyone who’s worked on a graduate degree has taken a research methods course (I even had one for my Lit MA), so I’m not going to bore you with the details.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The textbook for LIS 608 was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Practice-Social-Research-10th/dp/B001G1CGW2/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1304212134&sr=8-3">The Practice of Social Research</a></i>, by Babbie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s an awesome book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Considering it’s a book on research in the social sciences, that is a major compliment. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">LIS 603 focused on Management techniques in libraries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll be honest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hated this course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I only scored a B in this course, mainly because I’d wait until the last possible minute to complete assignments (bad Melissa).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not fond of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Management">management theories</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m specifically referring to the management theories found in the twentieth century, which is what 603 covered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think they paint employees as mindless drones requiring constant manipulation and training (kind of like the training you might attempt on a really stupid dog).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I did like the <a href="http://managementhelp.org/plan_dec/str_plan/str_plan.htm">strategic planning</a> segment of the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It appealed to my control freak nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should see me plan vacations or moves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m always planning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">It’s important for libraries to plan, especially in hard economic times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It provides a framework and keeps everyone focused on the library’s mission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, planning can get grating, but it’s less annoying than everyone running around like headless chickens later.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">LIS 603 also had an interesting textbook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Library-Information-Center-Management-Science/dp/159158406X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1304212195&sr=1-1">Library and Information Center Management</a></i>, by Stueart and Moran, conveyed management theories in a practical and organized way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t my favorite textbook ever (mainly because of the subject material), but it was well organized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-87901594142729501602011-04-30T20:20:00.000-05:002011-04-30T20:20:08.628-05:00UpdateIt's raining <strong><em><u>AGAIN</u></em></strong>. But we're not flooded at my location. And the crazies have remained indoors the last few nights, which means no more shootings as mentioned in my previous post. <br />
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I know I shouldn't bitch about these things given what happened with the storms and tornadoes in recent days. <br />
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I'm lucky compared to many people, and I am very happy about that. I hope all those in the way of harm are able to pick their lives back up after all this is over.<br />
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Now that my internet is acting almost normal (the storms play havoc with my connection) I'll be posting some library related postings. I even have one to post tonight!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-73800190039319519952011-04-27T22:51:00.003-05:002011-04-27T22:55:46.486-05:00On top of storms and flooding, we get thisThe Ohio River is flooding. Paducah has put all the flood gates in place along the flood wall. The river might get to near record levels. I'm safe enough from the river, although our street flooded a few mornings back. And some of the streets closer to the river were evacuated.<br />
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We've had nasty storms and strong winds. The Hubby's folks are trapped in their tiny town. All the roads to their town have been closed and the back roads are flooded. Murray State University actually closed down yesterday due to the high winds, storms, and power outages. And my Mother lost her favorite (and her puppy's favorite) tree. It was a gigantic oak tree, and the wind just tore it up by the roots. All's left is a big gaping hole in the ground. <br />
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And on top of all this we just had <em>another </em>shooting on my street. <br />
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And I come from a region of gun owners. My husband is a gun owner. So, I know the difference between gunfire and fire crackers (in case anybody wondered). The neighbors also heard the shots. Luckily, the cops are down the block on what looks like a drug bust in one of the apartment buildings. I'm so sick of apartment living.<br />
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This wasn't that bad of a neighborhood. We live near a main road, near the park for frack's sake. The city of Paducah can't have more than 25,000 people. And yet we have a rather constant crime spree down the side streets. The people who aren't dealing illegal stuff are dealing in the legal drugs (mostly pain meds in this area).<br />
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People are crazy. Why does anyone feel the need to fire off a gun in a residential area? Oh, right, drugs. I don't care what people do in the privacy of their own homes. Really, I don't. Just don't bring your crack/meth/pot dealing selves out in the street. Stay inside and put the guns away. <br />
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I was going to post some class summaries I had finally typed up, but you know what? Screw it. I'm going to bed (which is well below window level). <br />
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If I manage to wake up in a less than uber-anxious state, I may post some actual library related write-ups before I head out with a friend to a chocolate tasting in Murray. If I wake up scared out of my mind and freaking out, I'll be huddled in a corner all day with the corgi-pup (and the Hubby when he gets home from work). I don't worry about the cats. The cats can fend for themselves.<br />
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Oh, and before the gunfire, I linked to some more blogs (look to your right) related to library and information science topics. Go read in your safe cozy homes and feel sorry for me. I could use some sympathy right about now. :(Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-8960134206270308922011-04-23T16:50:00.000-05:002011-04-23T16:50:25.953-05:00Rain, Rain, Go AwayThunderstorms, tornadoes and power outages, oh my! <br />
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It's pretty nasty here. I just got my power back about half an hour ago. I did get a couple posts written out-on paper. Now, I just have to type them up and post them. Look at me. I'm actually getting stuff done (kind of). Yeah!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-18406883926335483192011-04-19T18:17:00.002-05:002011-04-19T18:17:31.581-05:00Webinar Participation: Prerecorded January 19, 2011, Finding Savings in Your Collections Budget During Tough Times, Presented by Jane Schmidt<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Jane Schmidt is the Head of Collection Services at Ryerson University Library in Canada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her talk was engaging and full of valuable information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She presented many common sense budget resolutions and also put forth ideas from her institution’s budget cuttings that I’d never thought up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The webinar from <a href="http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alcts/index.cfm">ALA ALCTS</a> was offered free to student members of ALA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still technically count as a student member, so I jumped at the opportunity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The format was simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I simply listened to the audio of the seminar while viewing the presentation slides in Windows Media Player.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The presentation lasted roughly an hour, and, wow, did Schmidt fit in a whole lot of info.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">She briefly touched on the pros and cons of protected collections budget options.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After this, she urged her listeners to not panic when it comes to budget cuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can imagine initially feeling like the end of the world happened if I was asked to lower my collection<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>budget by eight percent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Schmidt pointed out what the focus should be in this situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First, you should ensure leadership, offer transparency, gather the facts, “stick to it”, beware of “robbing Peter to pay Paul”, and anticipate backlash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Ensuring leadership just means setting up and making people aware of the chain of command, lines of communication, and putting the appropriate people in the correct positions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want an expert on how to deduct from the print serials budget, don’t put the rare manuscript person on the job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make sure, if you’ve got them, to put subject librarians on the job.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Transparency is pretty simple in theory, but can get mucked up in the real world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t assume everyone involved has all the information just because you do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make sure communication is a constant and all people who need to be are involved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, make sure people are aware of the numbers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Different departments need to be aware of how much all of other departments are being cut.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everyone should be aware of the amounts involved and the reasons behind those amounts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This encourages fairness and opens more communication.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Fact gathering is a major component of budget cuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that sounds so obvious, but people tend to believe gossip and word through the grapevine if those avenues of communication aren’t kept in check with facts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t assume the reference department is spending too much money on irrelevant resources because another department said so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check out the numbers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Schmidt said a line-by-line budget review is key here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get everyone on board at this point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are the expenses for print serials, e-serials, databases, monographs, e-books, audio-visual, office supplies and usage, etc?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why are those expenses on the books?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you explain why those expenses are necessary?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you have the evidence to support keeping those expenses?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looking at the largest expenses (e-resources in Schmidt’s case) realizes the highest potential savings most of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also gets the ball rolling and encourages those involved because those areas usually can handle the most cuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Schmidt covered several areas where fact gathering can be done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first places she suggested looking were databases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reviewing databases can determine if those resources are in use, if there’s redundancy (maybe an aggregator contains a database you have on its own elsewhere), if the number of access points/seats can be reduced, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reviewing and ranking all of your electronic resources provide you with the statistics and reasoning you will need to back up your choices when it comes to cutting resources or retaining resources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Schmidt had her librarians rank e-resources as essential (first choice), important (second choice), and marginal (rare usage).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They also looked at the usage data and if resources could be replaced with other, less costly sources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of this was explained to the librarians and other staff as exploratory and preliminary information gathering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing was set in stone at this point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Decisions were made after the data was reviewed and reviewed again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Departments and subject liaisons were consulted before anything was finalized as far as cuts or reductions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Some mid-impact areas to look at include serials, standing orders and approval plans, and memberships.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many print serials are becoming obsolete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cost of housing such resources can outweigh their usage, especially given the popularity of online databases, which house many journals in electronic format.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Staff time spent on print serials can shift to areas of greater need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looking at consortia deals may reveal a redundancy in your serial access.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Standing orders should also be reviewed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This can be time consuming but can create savings, including savings from potential weeding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Memberships are another area where unexpected savings exist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you and your library aren’t getting anything out of a pricey membership, it doesn’t make much sense to keep it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Other areas of savings included binding, book jackets, vendors, and one-time purchases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Binding serials may not be worth it at this point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Book jackets take time, money, and resources and may not be worth it in the long run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Streamlining vendors may also be a good idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can understand the savings in this approach, but I worry about closing out smaller vendors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t want to give the larger vendors a monopoly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That just leads to locks in pricing and services at some point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One-time purchases should be, if at all possible, should be approached with on-time funds (again, if you can acquire those funds).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">When it comes time to break the news about budget cuts, consider various approaches and use caution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Newsletters, websites, blogs, and in-person communication work in different ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Multiple lines of communication are always a good thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Schmidt found that communications through the liaison librarians to the departments didn’t work as well as communications from the head librarian to the department chairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It may be the perceived power plays in this case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make sure to provide facts and be firm in your approach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Honesty is always the best policy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Faculty may be the last group made aware of the cuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is not an underhand move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is simply an efficient way of dealing with possible repercussions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have all your ducks in a row, it’ll be easier to break the news to the faculty and explain the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Above all, keep in mind that this is a cyclic process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’re more than likely gonna have to do it all over again next year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Schmidt made it clear that you have to be determined if you’re going to find more savings every year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And don’t scale back in times of plenty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep the budget in mind even when you have a surplus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It makes it easier to deal with the stretches of economic problems that crop up in every country from time to time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And make sure to keep records.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those records can help you in future budget cuts and can also help you see what you might want to add back if your budget goes up in the future.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I told you she packed a hell of a lot of info in that webinar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-22087699905120670892011-04-15T14:22:00.000-05:002011-04-15T14:22:08.761-05:00Whoa! Where'd the Time Go?So, I haven't posted in a while. Sorry. I've had some allergy/sickly problems. I haven't even been running in almost a week. I've also taken some time out for job applications. Those can get crazy. <br />
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I'll be watching those recorded ALA Webinars today. I'll post my summaries tonight or tomorrow. Then, I'll get back on the ball with all my other blog plans, including those LIS course summaries I've promised. <br />
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While you wait, go read something from the hilarious <a href="http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/">Hyperbole and a Half</a>. Careful, though. She'll make your ribs hurt.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-58797526243384157162011-04-08T11:43:00.000-05:002011-04-08T11:43:49.029-05:00I Can Has Reference Question? Antiques<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I promised a few posts back to post some of the reference questions I get in my daily life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get people asking me for resources or other bits of information on a regular basis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m kind of like a reference librarian, except I’m not employed and I don’t get paid, and I don’t have an office, and…yah…I’m having a wonderful fantasy, aren’t I?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s ok.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One day soon the dream will be a reality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be a fully employed librarian.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Until that day, I will have to settle for blogging and dealing with reference questions in a non-job like capacity.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">My dear and wonderful Mother has a friend, we’ll call him J, with a really neat antique fish tank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s cast iron, has eagles carved on top of the four corners, and he thinks was made in the eighteenth century.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a pretty piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wants to sell it but has been having difficulty with the local “antique” dealers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He asked if I could find out more information about how he could identify, value, and sell the piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Here's the response I gave him:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">22 March 2011</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">J,</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I’m not qualified to appraise the antique aquarium.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would be inappropriate attempting to try.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a lovely piece, and I do think you were right to not sell it off just yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did some research and think your best bet is to find an actual appraiser qualified in antiques.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most people can just advertise as appraisers without any training, so you have to be careful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">With that in mind, I found the American Society of Appraisers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They require their members pass a test in appraisal, so these are legitimate professionals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found the three closest appraisers with this group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They may be able to help you with the value of the aquarium.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the very least, they should be able to point you in the right direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">A word of advice:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do not sell your item to the person appraising it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will usually undervalue it so they can later sell it at a higher price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me know if you need any other information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m a research junkie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Melissa</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">American Society of Appraisers-Local Members</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">Marshall L Fallwell Jr.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">Nashville, TN</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">615-356-8446</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">Jerry L Sampson</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">Harrodsburg, KY</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">859-734-7829</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">Patricia H Atwood</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">Rockford, IL</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: black;">815-316-0032</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This is the letter I sent J minus the list of appraisers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was happy with what I found out and will soon start the process of appraisal and selling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And he’s offered me 33% of the sale price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s not bad for one reference question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does this count as a job?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Should I put this on my resume?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Probably not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I should make note that I did not ask for payment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">With the resources available to me, I conducted a simple internet search about cast iron antiques and relevant appraisers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t a complicated task but did take a few minutes to track down the appropriate people for the job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I refused to use the internet to conduct an appraisal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even with a bunch of antique resources, I’m not a qualified appraiser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would kind of be like a librarian giving out medical advice, a big no-no.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-88217711331485188142011-04-06T16:21:00.000-05:002011-04-06T16:21:35.147-05:00Bibliotherapy? Woo or Valid Practice?<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I picked up my copy of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/">American Libraries</a></i> from the ALA today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I came across a topic I’d never seen before: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bibliotherapy">bibliotherapy</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.indiana.edu/~reading/ieo/digests/d82.html">Bibliotherapy</a> is defined simply enough as therapy with books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has some links to poetry therapy and is touted by some children’s librarians.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently, it has a long history in the United States.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But something about it had my skeptic senses tingling near overload.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I decided to conduct a simple search using Academic Search Premier-a general database I have access to through the University of Kentucky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I typed in “bibliotherapy” into the search box and managed to get 374 hits dated from 1949 to 2011.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I narrowed the search by requesting only scholarly (peer-reviewed) resources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This dropped the number of records down to 299 in that same date range.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To narrow the search again, I utilized the subject term “bibliotherapy” from the sidebar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At this point, I had 184 results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I decided to browse through the abstracts.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The abstracts discussed the use of bibliotherapy for childhood depression, adult depression, alcoholism, anxiety, gambling addiction, geriatric care, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Several of the articles focused on the use of “self-help” books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other thing I noticed, and this is the biggie, is that most of the study abstracts indicated bibliotherapy only works, or works better, when it is combined with other means of therapy-like counseling or medication.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And some of the studies that indicated it did work were very small.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before I’d buy this, I’d need large study groups and definite controls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Compare bibliotherapy for depression against medication, and then show me the results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Now, don’t get me wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know reading and books open worlds and provide a wonderful means of engaging the mind and imagination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are great escapes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can be inspirational and pull readers out of the issues plaguing their minds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I don’t think reading is necessarily the best way to fix mental problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I really think “self-help” books are mostly a load of bull.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reading fiction, true-life stories, biographies, textbooks, etc. all open up a reader’s world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Books expand minds and introduce us to new ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They show us worlds we might not otherwise be able to access.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, self-help books? Really?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s what’s going to solve depression and anxiety? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of those books are wishy-washy and over-priced, telling readers to “look on the bright side” or “imagine your perfect life, and it’ll happen” or “mind over matter” and on and on. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of them talk about souls and angels and all manner of woo that won’t do your brain any good at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Think about this for a minute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who decides what the main problem is?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who selects the books?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are we talking trained psychologists?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or children’s librarians?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think these issues are important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t want the local librarian psychoanalyzing and treating me or my kid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want a therapist or someone with credentials.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In some ways I can see bibliotherapy as harmless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s like homeopathy that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It might not hurt even if it doesn’t help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But then I think about the possibility that people with detrimental problems, not just teen angst or temporary depression, might be talked into bibliotherapy when what they need is counseling and medication.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That bothers me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It bothers me a great deal.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">My Hubby and I watched his brother go through depression and multiple attempts on his own life before he finally committed suicide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A self-help book wasn’t going to help him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Medication and therapy were helping, but there were other circumstances causing problems (we found out later).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This guy wasn’t illiterate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He read, he painted, he was a pharmacist, he had a sense of humor and a love of fantasy and science fiction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">And on another personal note, I suffer from minor depression and anxiety.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m a reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve read the self-help books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve connected with characters going through similar problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But that didn’t get me over <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">my</i> problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know what did?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Medication.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gives me the mental space I need to be strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It stabilizes those wonky chemicals that get out of balance due to genetics and/or life circumstances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve all had days with the bad brain chemicals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of us end up with more bad days than others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn’t even take an overly strong medicine or a high dose to balance me out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But without that tiny chemical push in the right direction, I don’t balance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And books become an escape at that point, not a way through my depression.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Now, those are my personal experiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not an expert on this subject.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I haven’t dug through the studies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My gut reaction to this and my reaction to the brief perusal of the article abstracts could be way off. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe, bibliotherapy works.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I need more convincing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If any of my readers have any thoughts or info on this topic, let me know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m in need of some educating. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><br />
And to be fair, I have found <a href="http://xkcd.com/627/">one self-help item</a> that actually helps.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-50348093664300622232011-04-05T21:40:00.000-05:002011-04-05T21:40:35.280-05:00Life Update<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I thought I’d post an update on how life is going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">My to-do list for the blog keeps getting longer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m gonna have to stop myself at some point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do have the items on my list planned out (even when I’m not employed I live my life by day planner), but it may take a few weeks to get everything I want posted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least I won’t run out of blog material in the near future.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The weather in Kentucky is still crazy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three days ago it was lovely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two days ago it was uber hot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yesterday we had thunderstorms with tornadoes and hail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The temperature dropped, and I woke up freezing this morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, today decided to be sunny and in the fifty-degree range.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of this crazy weather makes my joints ache and causes sinus problems, which makes me dizzy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, I get slightly annoyed and frustrated, which leads to anxiety, then apathy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I sit around boring myself or trying to cheer myself up with lolcats (I know, I know).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, I feel unproductive and make extra long to-do lists and trudge my way through all the library job lists I can find.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, then, I still feel unproductive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Luckily, I have a fix for the next day or two.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I’m getting ready to sit through two pre-recorded American Library Association webinars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of them focuses on budget issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second focuses on weeding collections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll take notes and post about the experience here in the next day or two.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I did get the corgi-pup brushed and cleaned today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyone who owns a Corgi will understand what a massive accomplishment (and pain in the ass) that is without the help of a professional groomer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The corgi-pup’s regular (and totally favorite) groomer got her hand caught in a leash attached to an uber-crazy dog that decided to drag her across a room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s still not sure when she’ll be back to grooming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Corgi-pup had a sad face after learning of her groomer’s unfortunate injury and demanded peanut butter biscuits to improve her mood.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGPyZYEpeQA/TZvSOOLyv7I/AAAAAAAAAA0/T9lxsCNSxJc/s1600/PICT0255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGPyZYEpeQA/TZvSOOLyv7I/AAAAAAAAAA0/T9lxsCNSxJc/s320/PICT0255.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She means business</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-33859515665747579972011-04-04T21:00:00.003-05:002011-04-06T03:43:38.795-05:00Monday Summary: Narratives, Games, and Learning Environments, oh my!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Here it is, after a two week break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This week we’ll look at the following article:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Dickey, Michele D. “Game Design Narrative for Learning: Appropriating Adventure Game Design Narrative Devices and Techniques for the Design of Interactive Learning Environments.” <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ETR&D.</i> 54.3 (2006): 245-263.</b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Michele Dickey is a professor at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She focuses on instructional design and technology and has several publications on games and gamers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, she knows a thing or two about instruction and video games.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Dickey’s main purpose is to look at the possible place of narrative structures and games in the problem solving process and learning environment. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This article focuses on adventure games, after briefly covering other genres and mentioning the overlap of genres.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Adventure games tend to have the most developed narrative structures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a literature review (with some wonderful resources I’ll be digging up later), Dickey moves into the theoretical framework section of the article.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this section she touches on the idea of learning environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically, this is a more modern idea among educators that students learn best when engaged and have an interactive environment in which to learn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Knowledge (unlike information) cannot be transmitted from the instructor to the student.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The student has to construct her knowledge within the framework of the learning environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The old notion of lecturing and mindlessly copying notes doesn’t cut it here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students can be approached individually in a learning environment unlike the old school approach of having “each student do the same thing at the same time” (249).</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Again, Dickey focuses on the adventure genre of games because of the more developed narrative structures found in them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can overlap with other genres, such as puzzle, first-person shooters, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The adventure genre of games can, according to Dickey, “be characterized as a problem-solving environment” (250).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Problem-solving environments require players to interact and synthesize the information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have to use the narrative structure and environment of the game to solve problems, puzzles, go on quests, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This can mean interacting with and interpreting characters in the game, utilizing objects, solving riddles, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Dickey also discusses how narrative factors into motivation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She does this by looking to the field of literature (my old stomping ground).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Narrative based games use plot hooks (what keeps you guessing, wanting to find out more) and emotional proximity (identification with the character the gamer is playing, investment in the narrative) to engage gamers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using literature again, Dickey looks at the idea of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quest">the quest</a> as a draw to keep gamers engaged and interacting.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">While motivation is important in gaming and to the narrative design, Dickey sees narrative better served in the instructional setting as a “cognitive framework for problem solving” (252).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s that, you may wonder?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Humans have a habit of using narrative to define boundaries when they’re solving problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’re playing a game where the character can use magic spells, you’ll put that into your cognitive framework.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise if your character has the ability pick locks, sword fight, utilize modern technology, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cognitive framework aids you in developing categories and relationships to work with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You become aware of the characters you can interact with and how you can interact, what objects are beneficial and not, what skills are likely to be relevant, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The narrative allows you to “identify and construct causal patterns that integrate what is known (backstory, environment, rules, etc.)” (252).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You figure out what you can and cannot do in the game setting through the narrative and through some trial and error in that narrative setting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Dickey points out that the narrative structure provides a “scaffolding for problem solving” (256).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Players develop skills for problem solving and “multimodal literacy” as they encounter problems, puzzles, and obstacles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have to use critical thinking skills in order to navigate the game and reach their goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Dickey closes the article with a section on integrating adventure game narrative into the learning environment. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She points out that this is a framework not a “formula” for designing a course or learning environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She also points out the obvious notion that games are designed primarily for entertainment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, not all games will work for learning environments or as educational tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-62456408263227045652011-04-02T21:38:00.003-05:002011-04-02T21:39:36.875-05:00Plug and Game<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Girl of the Gaps just <a href="http://girlofthegaps.blogspot.com/2011/04/its-my-birthday-have-present.html">posted a link to a fun online game</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The game is called <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tower of Heaven</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The music is great, and I get all nostalgic over the big pixel graphics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">It reminds me of my original Sega system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, not the Genesis-the actual <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sega_Master_System">Sega</a> master system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember when mine was all shiny and new and the graphics looked top of the line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/544332">Tower of Heaven</a> </i>sets your little character against a deity with an attitude problem (sounds familiar).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The deity attempts to make it ever more difficult for you to get to the top of his tower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He makes new rules and acts like a jerk every chance he gets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
It actually takes some dexterity to navigate the levels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I’ve been playing those point and click puzzle/adventure games from BigFish on my computer and playing other games on my Wii, I’m afraid my old-school “w+d”= “jump left” skills are rusty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure my skills will improve as I get more alcohol in my system (Don’t look at me like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s Saturday).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
And, no, this isn’t exactly the kind of critical thinking game I usually promote, but it is fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes, that counts for something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I like plugging good blogs when I get the chance (look to the right for blogs I read). </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I didn’t need <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">another </i>game to play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, thanks Nicole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll plug her blog anyway.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://girlofthegaps.blogspot.com/">Girl of the Gaps</a> is an excellent blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I check her and the Digital Cuttlefish more than I check Pharyngula, which is saying something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s an excellent writer and has lots of wonderful thought-provoking posts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wish I had half her smarts when I was her age.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-48524587958577627062011-04-02T14:01:00.000-05:002011-04-02T14:01:32.249-05:00Ha Ha<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Yesterday’s <a href="http://englemanknowledgebase.blogspot.com/2011/04/april-fools-pz-cuttlefish-digital-myers.html">PZ Cuttlefish</a> was an April Fool’s Prank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And as much as I’d like to say I didn’t fall for it that would be lying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had doubts and was skeptical, but they had a really well-executed trick going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I will admit to feeling conflicted about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would have missed the Cuttlefish (I’ve grown attached).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I comment on his blog far more than I do Pharyngula and would have missed the link in the online community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I was excited to possibly be on the blogroll of Dr. Myers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I feel kind of dumb for falling for it, although I’m clinging to that 10% of me that didn’t quite buy it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I’m still rereading lots of Cuttlefish poetry this weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’m glad that there are two people out there instead of one super being capable of everything from biology to poetry. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was starting to feel lazy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-60670021342921983952011-04-01T14:06:00.001-05:002011-04-01T14:06:30.534-05:00Red Cross Blood Donation April 2011<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I’m back from my second blood donation of the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got to use my <a href="http://www.redcrossblood.org/">Red Cross</a> donor card this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As usual, I am woozy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, donating blood is always a wonderful experience and gives me the wonderful feeling that I’ve done something useful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also got cheese crackers!</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I cannot say this enough:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Donate people! Donate!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s so easy.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">At the moment, I’m chomping on strawberry pocky and contemplating steak, but I may have to settle for a slimjim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, I think a nap is in order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Much love for the weekend.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670960620842050482.post-41688759929154608242011-04-01T11:56:00.001-05:002011-04-01T11:56:40.584-05:00Friday Fallacy: Argumentum ad nauseam<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">This <a href="http://www.csun.edu/~dgw61315/fallacies.html#Argumentum%20ad%20ignorantiam"><span style="color: blue;">fallacy</span></a>, also called argument to the point of disgust, happens when a person thinks simply repeating a statement (whether fact or fiction) makes it true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">This one is easy to spot, but apparently not so easy to stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Creationists will say things like, “Evolution is <i>only</i> a theory” over and over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyone educated enough understands that the word <a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/theory">theory</a> has different implications in science when compared to its everyday use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, someone dependent on argumentum ad nauseam won’t stop once this is conveyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, that person may simply keep repeating his argument over your argument.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be annoying and very frustrating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">A person may also use this fallacy when she is trying to hide from the truth of something or keep from admitting a mistake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, let’s say Billy’s mother (let’s call her Jane) finds out that Billy, who’s about fourteen, is doing illegal drugs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She may not want to admit that her sweet boy is doing anything along those lines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jane may keep telling herself that Billy’s drug use is not possible; he could never do that, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This isn’t a fallacy like we see in a debate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is more of a personal application.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, just like in a debate, no matter how many times Jane repeats it to herself, that repetition doesn’t change the facts of the situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Repeating like this is usually easy to detect, but you’d be surprised how many people fall for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Politicians and news pundits have a bad habit of repeating a statement or catch phrase over and over again without adding any substance to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can seep into peoples’ brains and convince them that a fact is fiction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Humans like repetition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s safe and gives us a secure feeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems simple, but that may be why this fallacy works so often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11926863547368447647noreply@blogger.com0