Week Eight - Reflect Activity

Technologies and service integration 

For the reflect activity this week I considered the following questions:

What is the role of podcasting, online video, screencasting or slidecasting in libraries or information organisations? Do you see them as enhancements to the existing work, or services in their own right?

With these questions I wanted to explore each of the technologies and the type of role they could possibly play within libraries and information organisations. Although I focussed on screencasting for my play activity, I have an interest in the other platforms posed in the question. To background briefly, I've listened to podcasts for a few years and while there is are peaks and troughs in my listening consistency, it's good to know that this free and convenient medium exists. Online videos are typically my first port-of-call when it comes to find out how-to do things - the audio or text instructions partnered with real-life visuals makes for an easy to understand and follow guide. Another version of this instructional-type video format, screencasting I've viewed in order to find out about more computer related issues. Slidecasting is a concept that is relatively new to me and I've since taken advantage of in university to access educational presentations. 

With this and select course information in mind, when considering the first question it was clear to see what potential role these information delivery formats could play within libraries or information organisations. The technologies and possible uses in information organisations are outlined below:

Podcasts: Offers convenience to users - people can choose when and where they can listen. Would be useful for educational or instructional content. The possibility for audio and video also expands accessibility of information. 

Online video: Allows people to choose when they watch and how many times they watch it. Offers and opportunity for information institutions to showcase their institutions and reach a wider audience. 

Screencasting: Capturing computer screen processes will be of exponential use to libraries in order to effectively present how library databases are used and informs patrons as to how other areas of their system operates (for example audiobook or ebook loan processes).

Slidecasting: To showcase presentations to a larger audience. Slides offer a clear and succinct way of viewing information and allowing users to control the speed of the slides.