Our presentation today, Using RSS and Blogs for Research, went really well, despite the fact that we were both quite nervous.
The room was packed; I counted 46 academics and students (50 signed up), which would have to be a record, given that the failure-to-show rate for library classes can be quite high. My colleague S demonstrated using a couple of RSS readers, finding feeds and subscribing to them, while I showed them how to use Bloglines and gave them a brief spiel on how interesting blogs can be. I think they can:
- be a great way to get into writing (I made the point that some bloggers claim it helps them overcome writer’s block)
- help you publicise your work and make connections with other people in your discipline or profession
- provide much interesting and useful information
S said some people clapped when we finished! – I didn’t notice as I was so hyped on adrenalin. (Teaching or presenting a class usually has this effect on me 🙂 ) After the class a few people stayed to thank us and ask questions, which was great!
Next week we will present a similar session for library staff. I also had to organise a third Using RSS and Blogs for Research session, which people signed up for even without us advertising it! I’m quite amazed/amused at the level of interest.
4 Comments
I’m not surprised that your presentation was a success. I always remember the old (or should i say ‘young’) days, when we used to play ‘school’ – as our ‘teacher’ you were always very engaging and interesting. 😉
Thanks 🙂 Very nice of you to say so 🙂
I’d add: “A great way to communicate the relevance of libraries and librarians to users and non-users”. The list can go on 🙂
Is your presentation posted online? Would love to view it if that’s possible.
Thanks for dropping by my blog. Have just subscribed to yours.
Thank you, Ivan! 🙂 My presentation isn’t online at the moment.. will let you know if and when it goes up!