Cranston PFE: PFE Journals

Christina Dufour

PFE: Cranston Public Library, Digital Literacy

September 10^th, 2013

Total: 6hrs

I met Lisa, my co-teacher for the next few weeks.  We taught computer basics, where I learned that the money for the class comes from a state grant- federal money from Broadband RI.  I’m not sure the details yet.  The goal, for both of them, is to increase computer literacy and job readiness.  The people n class were in their 50s and up.  For her method, Lisa works from bulletpoints, using her own prompts to guide people through a structured lesson.  And, to get them to come back, she keeps the brochure on up and coming courses at the main table.  We discussed the mouse, the desktop, and icons.  We’re trying to convince people they cannot simply “break the computer” by clicking around.  Once they get the double left click down.

            The browser was nicknamed the “wild west of information” by Lisa.  I like that and think its accurate.

            Corrie briefly mentioned something called DeepFreeze and Envisionware, but I don’t know much about it at the moment.  She seems ready to teach me a lot from the get go and I like that. 

            I hung out with the reference crew for a bit.  It was part of learning my way around.  They taught me about their printers needs and the actions for getting it to print.  From guided tours to viewing the technology & equipment, to library proceedures.  Needles to say, I am going to get a well-rounded experience!  IT reference, course assistance, and tech input!  I feel needed and valued- and this is only day one! 

            Corrie signed me up for the Cranston Staff group page as well as OSL.  I won’t write my login info here, but needless to say I have both. 

September 12^th, 2013

Total: 12hrs

Today, Lisa and I taught Microsoft Word.  For this class, five women showed up.  One of these women was late and I became her one on one, following a few seconds behind what Lisa was saying that this patron was missing.  During this class, before I was helping, Lisa gave me a good idea; when instructing a piece of software, I have to ask and tell

1)What is it?  What does it do?

2) Tell them the versions can vary but help them understand what to look for

We made jokes about how typewriters made us appreciate Word, using URL text wrap, and the class went very well.

In the afternoon, Corrie had to be off site at another branch but had projects for me to do at Cranston.  I began prep for the Spotify course as well as manned the Geek the Library table, answering reference questions about the program.  

September 17^th, 2013

Total: 18hrs

Today’s class was on internet search basics.  It was taught by Lisa and assisted by myself.  Lisa had prepped six computers, since the last course was small, and there must be a law that when you do that you are wrong- we had 12 people by the start of the 10:30 class.  Again, there were a lot of older folks, but they were eager to learn.  

Behind the scenes, we are still dealing with a air conditioning leak in Corri- my supervisor’s- office.  It could have been fatal to the Claytek device that powers the public internet source.  

           

Later in the day, we set up some of the new circulation area.  There weren’t enough computers at it, so we had to pull over a public one that we would then disable Envisionware for and run LiveUpdate.  It is iimportant that Deep Freeze should be taken off first and then later uninstalled.  When Frozen, changes(admin or np) will not take effect.  

I did not do much with the Geek the Library table today, but I did sit at it for awhile.  The more interesting part of the afternoon was when Corrie and I ran diagnostics tests on the 3D printer.  As it turns out, the right extruder(in the color of red) wasn’t working and there is a workshop around the corner.  So, we found a fun blueprint for the SD card of a Despicable Me minion and planned to make him.  For this, we visited Thingiverse and then downloaded and converted through Makerware, as the 3D printer is a Makerbot device.  Unfortunately the right extruder wouldn’t work and the minion is on hold.  BUT the left extruder worked and we reloaded the TARDIS design and I was allowed to watch all 46 minutes of its creation AND then keep it.  It sits on my shelf in my house.  The machine is funny, not too different than a printer, but it sounds like R2D2 from Star Wars and even has an attitude or rather view of self- for example, “I’m cancelling, please wait.”  It was awesome.

September 19^th, 2013

Total: 24hrs

Today my notes are from the inner sanctum.  Corrie is the technology person and when any of the other five branches- that are not here at Cranston- have update issues or computer issues, she has to go to them and install the updates or solve the problems.  She took me and one other tech savvy co-worker with her.  It didn’t take long, but there was a bit to remember.  

First, we opened the Super User part of Envisionware, then became an administrator, and then thawed DeepFreeze.  In other words, we unlocked the computer.  Using Ninite, we ran all neccessary updates, followed by Adobe Flashplayer, and Word- in this case, previous things worked on that might have patron-sensitive titles.  We also made sure Java was off because it messes with Envisionware.  The very final bit was Firefox, which some patrons use over Internet Explorer, and took care of updates.  

By afternoon, I explored JobScout, which is a digital literacy software on the internet that BroadBand Rhode Island.  Cranston has grants from them and does training of the trainers based on their suggestions.  As part of the digital initiative of the digital economic cooporation, we received a request to explore this item, JobScout.  The classes I have been assisting come from the mobile lab grant (from BroadBand RI)and in the form of red windows laptops.  So far, these are my opinions:

JobScout notes:

First downside, for someone new to the internet-we’re talking they come to our basics classes- the terms can be a little troublesome.  For someone like me, a digital native, I know what JobScout means when it says “dashboard” “aggregator” and “web browser”.  These are terms* used in the How to Use JobScout lesson and they could prove problematic for newer internet users.

*terms are discussed in a lesson under Internet Savvy, but new users aren’t likely to click under each option; they are going to start with how to use the site and internet/computer terms are needed then.

Upside: Resume creator is good, many people look this up online and they are not free.  JobScout, obviously, is free.

Upside: the resource tells you that red is a link, which is clickable and can give you more information or a new page.

Upside: positive reinforcement w/ badges

Downside: the intro promises other types of activities.  For someone who doesn’t like testing or someone who doesn’t do written tests- like myself- this can be very frustrating.  Feeling constantly judged or misreading/misinterpreting the question might turn me away from using the site.

Downside: grammer.  “A___ is something you have a lot of experience doing.”  The answer is expertise but it should say “a(n)” because expertise sounds like the odd choice out.  “A hobby” “a talent” “a fault” sounds natural.  Nit-picky, yes, but it will throw people.

September 24^th, 2013

Total:  30hrs

            Today’s class was about getting people connected to email.  After a brief review we quickly discovered that today’s email requires a mobile number.  This is a huge problem for our class’ demographic.  Only two of them had cell phones and three had other emails they preferred to stay with instead of signing up for a new account.  This class sort of halted.

            In preparation for Thursday’s class, I decided to make my own Tackk account.  It gave me ideas about my children and young adults class.

            Microsoft Office needed updating on a staff computer.  The first step was to insert the update disc, the second was to download it, and the last was the delete the old shortcuts and pull over the new.  After that, I learned how to work the projector system.  There is a microphone as well as a hands free set.  My notes for this go as follows:

-Red button on(sound) and second switch

-2 lock on

-USB system: open folder, windows, .exe(select), agree to install, enter password, and restart.

-After install, plug in USB 2(sound & display), and take out the first one.

-Open connector software.  Finished.

For homework, I recorded some banned books reading on YouTube for the Cranston Public Library.  They can be found at here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YK11aaf2WHo

Here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbZWCP4oSy4

And here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak4TyFpbjGA

            The last thing in the afternoon was a meeting with the website manager from AskRI.org.  They explained how the grant money works, federally given by OLIS and then from OLIS to the libraries they deem.  Its database money.  One of these is EBSCO, which has 9 out of 10 academic bases.  Tutor.com is also amongst them, including Learning Express, Homework Help, and Career Center.  Mango languages, a personal favourite, A-Z business, and Worldbook online are there as well.  Our discussion was a review of the new site and we offered suggestions about the kids page.

September 26^th,2013

Total: 36hrs

Tackk class went well, we had seven people.  Two of them thought Twitter & Instagram were suppose to be today, a schedule snafu.  The patrons seemed excited anyway.  They were more advanced than other classes.  The only trouble was that Internet Explorer- the class preferred browser- wouldn’t load Tackk.  So we used Modzilla Firefox.  Along the way, I made notes about computers that lacked Firefox and/or needed Internet Explorer updates.  Which were all of them.  The format of the class is good: why do you want to use this software?  What can it do for you?  This site is easier because there is no coding required. 

In the afternoon I called Dell and had a wonderful chat with a man named Erik.  As we figured out the keyboard issues of a laptop, we also laughed about pronouncing “Sokanosett Road” in Cranston.  Erik taught me how to run diagnostics on my computer(repeated f12 at start) and how to work around not having a working laptop mouse.  After our session, I loaded Spotify onto all of the laptops. 

PFE Class, Saturday September 28^th

Of my notes, this is what I wrote.  Number one- People can surprise you and shouldn’t be judged, but hygiene is a must when handled with grace. 

·       Equal access, homeless is a big part of the population at Newport.  They aren’t allowed to sleep inside.

·       Keep family in mind, but don’t play favourites.

·       Weeding is a never ending task.(Yes, yes it is).

Freedom of access is really important.  What offends people or causes them to question racism, might not be for someone else.  We have to ask “if the book should be removed, what are the circumstances?”  Sometimes moving it is a good solution.

Internet access will always cause issues, but privacy is the priority.  Unless the cops have a warrant, and if it gets that far.  Again, as librarians we cannot censor.  I stand behind that and feel a lot of hesitancy in my online classes to ‘do the wrong thing’.  Insist on parental involvement- it could be a safety net, but you aren’t suppose to “see” the material anyway.  Tricky.

Privacy- if a book should be found at a crime scene, request a warrant(see above).  A librarian could get in trouble for giving out patron information.  If a friend asks what their friend last checked out so they can get it, ask their friend to tell them.  If you leave a voicemail, don’t leave specifics about the item.  And if a patron’s husband wants to access their wife’s records on their behalf, a live call is not a bad idea.

Treat co-workers fairly.  With respect and teamwork, that’s a good objective.  Don’t advance your private interests.  Just don’t.  Also, if work pays for you to go to a conference, don’t overinduldge and pretend you’re on vacation.  That could have reprecussions.

You really have to monitor what’s going on in your library.  What are the issues?  Are people trying to sell things, start a for-profit?  Is someone trying to get hired that is married to someone in the department?  And the most important is to(especially when collecting) ask yourself what do people want? 

            Regina is a great boss(even though I’m only there one day a week) and very brave in her practice in the library field.  Some of her answers and evaluations would challenge some of the new people in the profession.  A lot of my personal beliefs, as they develop, are aligning with hers.

October 1^st, 2013

Total: 42hrs

Last day of computer basics.  We’ll repeat the course in a month and have some new ones in between.  There were seven people.  We began with a review of the work from the last three weeks and then continued into a Google Scavenger Hunt.   It was a great idea and gave the class some freedom to explore and flex their skills.  Search and navigation are important.  Knowing what a web address/minimize/multiple tabs/etc are a big help. 

            After class, I got to work on my Spotify lesson.  Sofar, I have my bullet points as well as a simple(yet colourful) GooglePresentation.  Shortly into this, I had to break for some tech work.  A few staff members, Corrie, and I had a recap on Envisionware.  Since I learned it before, I stayed for the first part only and then went back to lesson planning for the remainder of the day.  I really want people to feel connected and comfortable when I teach in November.  And I think Corrie is having me make the handout for Facebook next week, but I will have to email her about that because, as normal, we got sidetracked. 

PFE Journals October – November

October 3^rd, 2013

Total: 48hrs

Not much to repot today, Corrie called out sick so she asked me to work on lesson handouts for Facebook, Spotify, and Cranston resources.  I used Lisa’s “Lisa’s wicked good webtools page” a little.  In the end, I stuck with Publisher and GooglePresent. 

October 8^th, 2013

Total: 54hrs

Today we began at the William Hall branch of Cranston where we ran updates.  There are several laptop needing new keyboards because they are either missing a letter or the mouse isn’t working.  I learned that under Public User on the older computers, new updates will not work.  Either “installer corrupted: invalid opcode” or “Error: General installation error” will pop up. 

Later, I learned how to use Drupil for the purpose of updating Cranston’s webpages.  When an event, a movie, or a new CD is available we can put it in its’ area’s slideshow.  So I started with updating the information for a Ghost Hunter and then moved onto Teens.  Under “what’s happening” and “seek the unknown” I updated Teen Read Week information.  Then for a new YA movie I chose Dark Shadows and for music I chose Panic! at the Disco. 

October 10^th, 2013

Total: 60hrs

Julie was the lead teacher today for Library Resources Online.  Technically we had one patron attend, but she was called out for work.  In the end, I experimented with the sound system- getting a footing for Spotify.  In a few weeks, I will work on talking and having music running when I practice.  After that, Julie and I tried to get the left extruder working on the 3D printer.  We agree we need a real technician to do it because the extruders keep changing- i.e. one week white works and the next it doesn’t but red does. 

In the afternoon, I installed a new hard drive.  This was simpler than I thought.  You remove the side panel, set it down, pop out the DVD drive, unplug the old hard drive, and take its case out.  Replace the new one in the case, plug and place it in correctly, and then put the other parts back.  Since its empty, it needs imaging, or ghosting, which can be done by plugging in an external hard drive.  You will also need the mouse and keyboard plugged in.  When you start the computer, press f12 until the boot menu comes up.  Then select USB storage and ghosting/imaging.  From here, select localàdiscàfrom imageàc:Driveà Oplex70x10/70x10.gho.  Next, reset à”setup startigservices”/ “setu is installing devices”/ “applying system settingsàrestartàcheck upàrestart.  Now you’re ready to go.  Imaging a computer means all browser preferences go to automatic.  Here’s the fun part- after you set the homepage to Cranston Public Library, you then have to turn off “crash” “last save” settings.  This is when you close out of a window and Firefox(etc.) saves what you had.  On a patron computer, this is what needs to be done.

Firefox:

1)     about.config

2)     filter box: session

3)     browser.sessionstore.max_resumed_crashes -> set to zero

Chrome:

1)     chrome://flags/

2)     disable better session restore

3)     click enable

4)     options

5)     personal stuffànever save password

6)     close the window

Internet Explorer:

1)     Log in as administrator(while passwords work for the other browsers, IE comes with the computer and requires an admin sign-in)

2)     Disable browsing session

3)     Turn off browsing session

Lastly, we looked at installing a new receipt printer, but that stopped early because there wasn’t a free outlet.   And Katherine and I looked into organizing the Laptop Cart to maximize its charging potential.  While we’re not sure where to find information on our model, we do thin that it is a Buhl LRLTC26, even though is says CSC on the model in the cart.  It looks like the Buhl(there is no name in the instruction manual) and if this is so, the website may tell us how to do the timer on it- which charges the first row and then the bottom so that the voltage won’t be too high. 

October 15^th, 2013

Total: 66hrs

The first thing was to put away some laptops that were lent to another branch.  Second, to install a printer on a staff computer.  (Windows 7 → 32 → English)  Third, we had the meeting about what to do with the teen room.

We discussed how teens expressed an interest in multiplayer gaming, such as Minecraft.  I suggested Left 4 Dead and League of Legends as other LAN options.  My task is now to figure out how LAN works both connected and wirelessly.  Luckily a lot is available online and I still have some friends from college who play LAN games.

We discussed which was better, the Wii U or the XBOX and the Kinect.  I voted for the XBox because there are just as many games, the kinect can be really cool(no controller), and it would also allow multiplayer.  The issue with the space is seating, which we would need to reconfigure, and they want to catalog laptops(which I told them could work, thanks to Envisionware) for a few hours at a time.  I also brought up games for the XBox such as Just Dance, Halo, Rockband, driving games, trivia games, and (to myself) I wrote karaoke.  

As for LAN, so far I figured out(for wired) we would need an IP address, Network Address, Domain Name, Broadcast Address, Subnet Mask, Hostname(unique to each computer), and a host address(also unique to each host).  

• Automatically assign a static IP to each computer in the LAN or use a special type of server that automatically assigns a dynamic IP address to each computer as it logs into the network.  
• LAN Hardware, this is needed first to connect

    -Ethernet(10mbps baseband LAN)

• Ethernet compatible hub with at least gthe same number of ports as there will be computers in the LAN(A LAN package is cheaper than individual)
• Ethernet cables to connect to each computer’s NIC to the Ethernet Hub.

And Wireless:

A wireless local area network (WLAN) links two or more devices using some wireless distribution method (typically spread-spectrum or OFDM radio), and usually providing a connection through an access point to the wider Internet. This gives users the mobility to move around within a local coverage area and still be connected to the network

An access point can be either a main, relay, or remote base station.

• A main base station is typically connected to the (wired) Ethernet.
• A relay base station relays data between remote base stations, wireless clients, or other relay stations; to either a main, or another relay base station.
• A remote base station accepts connections from wireless clients and passes them on to relay stations or to main stations. Connections between "clients" are made using MAC addresses.

All base stations in a wireless distribution system must be configured to use the same radio channel, method of encryption (none, WEP, or WPA) and the same encryption keys.

how to do it!

YouTube Video.  

Windows 7

• Click on Bars, Open Network and Sharing Center
• Change Advanced Sharing Settings
• Turn On Network Discovery, Turn On “tile” Sharing, [Turn On So Anyone Can Open Public Folders]
• Turn On Password protected, prevents outside players from joining the current game or messing with files.
• Back to Network and Sharing Center
• Set-Up New Network, Set-Up a New Connection or Network
•  

October 17^th, 2013

Total: 72hrs

Today I learned how to image a computer.  This is also known as ghosting.  More or less, you are booting your laptop so that it works like new.  You have an image of how it is supposed to look on a hard drive and you upload from there.  After the initial image is installed, you have to reset all of your settings so that it will be patron friendly again.  These are the steps after the image is complete.

1) Name change:

control panel --> system and security -->see the name of this computer --> scroll to bottom, change the name and the workgroup.

2)Change password:

control panel --> add/remove user -->accounts --> xadmin

3) Set WiFi automatically:

meeting room --> auto connect --> check everytime choose public

4) Turn off Java(doesn't paly well with Envisionware): program files --> java -->jre7...etc

5) Internet Explorer.

Icon to desktop

command bar to browser

Cranton Public Library as Homepage

Tools -->internet options -->delete browsing history on exit(hit apply)

privacy, turn on pop up blocker

Content --> uncheck auto complete

advanced --> unclick enable crash save

6) Google Chrome and Firefox(optional).  Repeat same steps.

7) Run control userpassword2, click patron(opens patron side every initial booting)

8) LAST STEP ALWAYS, its annoying otherwise, install Deep Freeze.  

This lasted all day because there were eight laptops to image.   

PFE Class Notes October 19^th

November 9^th’s Meeting will be at the Redwood Library.  Also in Newport, is a Google film showing.  I am interested, but like the Gala I cannot afford it.  As for the Portfolio presentation, it was decided that we will have it Thursday December 5^th from 4-6pm. 

Emily talked about AS220 and arts studios.  Steph talked about electronic access ‘database’ and archiving tools.  Kelly discussed info road tutorials.  Alexa discussed the Rhode Island hospital at Memorial Hospital and her organization.  Elliot discussed adult reader graphic novels(March, Maus, etc.).  I made a note about the concern of cataloging in graduate school, how it doesn’t give us practical experience and a lot is learned on the job.  Gail discussed the unclassroom in a little detail, but it peaked my interest. 

Before the meeting, I didn’t know Ed was a PRISM scholar or that there were such thing as a graduate program being paid for.  Also, my supervisor Corrie isa PRISM scholar and I didn’t know that.  Of the five branches of Cranston, I have been to three of them.  William Hall is art and music centric and Auburn is teen-centric with a Chinese population.  Arlington is very diverse and reopening soon. 

Technology center and traditional works philosophy- Ed wanted technology because many patrons came in for work and needed resume and online access.  Digital literacy- broadband RI- was part of that.  They wanted to be a place to come to learn about technology so they upgraded their tech, their staff, and become the number one in circulation.  Ed stated that he is only able to do one renovation at a time but always likes to be working on the libraries. 

He advocated being on a board of trustees and networking as well as looking ahead in politics. 

Conflict resolution in public libraries requires a business attitude and work flow.  Budgeting knowledge is in my notes.  This includes knowing the numbers to tell people, knowing an item to talk to people about, and knowing the politicians.  A marketing background could be nice.  Marketing yourself could include joining a professional organization, like RILA, or showing drive to catch the attention of someone.  Ed told people about how I looked into the PFE and then went to their Alex and Ani fundraiser and talked with him again.  We talked about the tattoo librarian calendar and how it was important to watch how you phrase things and when you are close to being negative about something.   It could reflect poorly on you.  It is important to note that th library is a place for everyone and retail/customer service skills can be useful.  On a resume, list “library experience” and “relevant experience” perhaps.  Also, read the job qualification seriously.  Maybe say that you have some of the experience, not all of it, and feel like it fits you.  Resume and resume review is important  to do before submitting your resume to a job.  Try to stay professional in email, not messages below your signature and thank you notes are important- I sent Ed a postcard I found in Wickford last week.  Proper attire is a must.

Conflict resolution: Use the customer service philosophy of the customer is almost always right. 

-don’t create a conflict over policy

-don’t argue with the patron

-don’t take the interaction personally

-know your director/boss, will they support your call?

-paper trail issues

-Homeless conflict: homeless bill of rights and permanent residence, restrictive policies.  You don’t want bad PR if you can avoid it and you should do your research. 

Last notes:

·       Network before you need it

·       Get outside your field and get on a board, civic duty

·       Collect people. (Like x-men trading cards)

·       “I’m not going to let anyone or anything ruin my day today.”

·       You be positive

·       Lifelong learning- outside your field discoveries

·       Know your role- judge results, not people

·       Be the tallest tree

October 22^nd, 2013

Total: 78hrs

Sound was set up for a program, as there was no class, and this requires pressing both power switches.

Minecraft is our focus right now- the Minecraft trials- where we are looking to bring Minecraft to the teens.  Our first trials involve playing the demo and considering server options.  There are Mojang servers, the game's maker, but requires a purchase first.  After this, to make your own, you must consider IP, system configuration, network configuration, and router configuration.  It also requires java and certain commands for windows.  I wrote a few notes about how the wiki says to do this, but there must be an easier way.  

The teen laptop program pilot had a meeting and the cataloging was almost done.  

Later we went to Arlington branch and started to set up computer installations.  We also decided that I would work this Friday to attend a Minecraft program instead of working next Tuesday(October 29th).

October 24^th, 2013

Total: 84hrs

There was a lot going on today.  For Facebook class, we had 10 people.  We began with an overview, discussed the odds and ends, and got people connected.  We also talked about the computer interface versus a tablet or mobile device.  Most people did really well, some already had one but had technically questions.  Other had not had it, and wanted to know what was involved.  Needless to say my supervisor used me as a guinea pig when it came to tagging, messaging, and other items to send.  I felt useful.  Part of the way through, the laptops started to die.  I made a mad-dash for the batteries and most people were fine.  It just created a tripping hazard.  After the class, I spent part of the day fixing all of the laptops I had imaged last week to a power saver battery option.

For Minecraft, I made some leeway.  First we should purchase a copy, then the main computer can log on to the game and in the menu there is an option for open to LAN.  On the teen computers, they can then enter the game and go into multiplayer, where the LAN will be an option.  The question is, how many licenses do we need?  How are the teens playing now?  That is what tomorrow's meeting will clue me in on.

For power savings on a laptop: control panel --> appearance and personalize --> hardware and sound --> power battery --> power saver.

Then I fixed BTOP6, a red laptop.  That concludes six hours.

October 25^th, 2013

Total: 90hrs

Today I worked a Friday which was really different.  This is in place of next Tuesday.  The point of today was to attend the Auburn Mincecraft program.  More about that later.

This morning I updated the children's computers and teen laptops and computers.  They needed flash player updates and Minecraft shortcuts.  The children's computers were a synch.   The teens computers were also easy.  But the teen laptops had some problems.  For starters, the firefox settings weren't right.  I had to turn off the prompt for previous browsing as well as the crash restore function- see about:config notes from earlier in the month.  Lastly, the needed Cranston Library as the homepage and other small Firefox items.

Auburn was great.  The teens were better than I hoped.  They're smart, inquisitive, and ready to work together.  Fred was the tech student, the guru if you will.  He is going to be the key to making Minecraft work at Central.  Ashanti was another student, he called the  program his baby because he had helped the head librarian plan it.  Then there was Antonio, a kid of maybe 10.  He too knew a lot and was eager to share.  Through the program, I was able to determine that if we purchase one Minecraft then several students could play the single player and still have survival, creative, and hardcore mode.  The thing I said about Fred being the key is that, to play multiplayer, we do indeed need to create a server and then open the LAN in game.  I'm sure we could try to figure it out alone but Fred has done it and he has thrown what is called "LAN parties".  This is where everyone has their own account.  With one license everyone can use the game, using single player, but they would get kicked out of multiplayer trying to do the same.  So the plan is to get Single player going for November 16th and plan B is to get multiplayer running.  We can take the desktop screen and tower to Auburn, to Fred, and I could probably learn his ways.  He's really smart for a teen.  

The last thing I learned here was that the kids really know the future of gaming devices.  I play some, mostly on computer now, and know the XBox is cool and Kinect is awesome.  But XBox One could create an issue for us.  If we acted quickly, got an XBox and Kinect with tons of games, we'd probably be all set.  But if we wait, we may have to purchase a PS4 or a Wii to make multiplayer worth-while.  So, that was eye opening and really got Emily and I to think.  

October 31^st, 2013

Total: 96hrs

      Today was easy going and fun.  I dressed up as Velma from Scooby Doo and it was a hit with a lot of my coworkers.  I was going to just be behind the scenes and running through my class, but I was asked to take photos for a group that was meeting and so more people saw my costume.  I’m glad I found the perfect wig!

      My first task was to make sure I had everything ready for Spotify.  With the class being next Thursday, sort of the peak of my PFE, I intend to run through it this afternoon and make sure sounds, display, and everything is ready to go.

       In between prep and running the class on Katherine, I took my Friday notes to actions.  I thawed DeepFreeze and installed the Minecraft shortcut to all of the laptops- red and silver.  Only mine doesn’t have it at the moment, but I likely will do it because its going to need to be tested once the initial purchase is made.  The laptops took awhile because we still haven’t imaged the silver ones, we don’t have the proper file for that at the moment.  I updated 8 or so of them and it took over at hour, closer to two.  

     By late afternoon, Katherine was free.  She gave me some good advice from her classes she has taught as well as listened as a student might.  The instruction art will take at least thirty minutes, without questions, and I have a good two hours to teach.  While I don’t know how large the class will be or what age I’m going to be working with, I have two plans for teaching.  If they are younger like Katherine, I can relate it to programs like Pandora and have them follow along.  If they are older I will relate it to their car radio and have them watch me demonstrate first.  I discovered one small hiccup today which was that yes, two patrons or more can share the same account, but opening the same account on another computer results in the pausing of the first one.  So, I’m going to have to plan for time for people to create their own accounts or limit them to not live-listening to music, as I will have the main account.  It’s a small thing and I will work on that more on Tuesday.  Also I met our 3D printer tech guy, I didn’t know we had one.  His name is James.  Its nice to see a guy in the library.

November 5, 2013

Total: 102hrs

The notes from today are much like they were for October 17th because today was spent imaging the other half of the computers.  With the red BTOPs all done, today I had 8 silver CHAMP laptops to do.  For easy access, I copied my notes from October 17th with some minor additions.  

Since adding Minecraft to the desktops of the computers, there are now 10 steps and Minecraft is 7th, but has to be switched with the 4th step, Java un-auto update.  Minecraft, created by Mojang, runs off of Java.  Since this library isn’t a fan of java, we turn off automatic updates.  But what I discovere today is that if you turn that off first, Minecraft refuses to download.  Almost as though the program doesn’t recognize an up-to date version.  So, by switching the two we can move smoother.  The steps are now as follows:

1)change the name

2)change the password

3) change the wifi preference & autoconnect

4) java updates off

5) internet explorer icon to desktop

6) googlechrome and firefox

5a) command bar

5b) cranston library as homepage

5c) tools and browsing history off

7) Minecraft Download

8) Spotify download

9) patron side as auto login

10) Deep Freeze on

On the table for Thursday is Spotify Class and purchasing Minecraft from Bestbuy or Target because Mojang wasn’t working properly.  

PFE November 7, 2013

Total: 102hrs

This is more just a general note. I was unable to go to Cranston today for personal reasons.  As such, I was unable to teach the much anticipated Spotify class.  Using my notes I designed for myself, the instruction I gave to Katherine last week, and other comments I have made about Spotify, Corrie and Katherine will be co-teaching my class today.  Because of the time left in the semester, I should be okay as far as my 135hrs go.  If my calculations are correct, I will work at Cranston Public Library 7 more times before the December 5th portfolio presentation, giving me plenty of time to get my hours in

Corrie was very understanding of my situation and had no problem teaching the class as scheduled.  Not make up for missing the pinnacle of  my internship, I may be leading at least one of the computer basics courses that Lisa would normally teach.  If this does not happen, I can use my notes to determine just how well I tought me teacher to teach my class.

November 12 & 14th: 102+12= 114hrs

November 19 & 21: 114+ 12 = 126hrs

November 26th: 126 + 6 = 132hrs

December 3 & 5th: 132 + 12 = 144hrs

PFE November 12th

Total Hours: 108hrs

I kept tally marks for todays class soI could keep more concise notes.  Today was Computer Basics I, like before but repeated, and we had 17 people. A hispanic mother and daughter had to share their computer.  I had to take CHAMP 3 & 5 out of the back room, where I was going to image them, and bring them out for usage.

I spent a good portion of the class fielding questions.  Some people were having a hard time with the clicking motion while others were getting ahead in what they ultimately wanted to be able to do.  At the end of class I explained to one woman why she always had to press F1 when opening her personal laptop- upon finding out she did not have the warrenty, I told her that her hard drive was having problems and she should consider backing up her work on a thumbdrive.  She eventually understood and was appreciative.

 While I love teaching, working with people gives me experiences in keeping my patience.  At the end of class, I had one woman ask me when I was expecting.  Without missing a beat, I brushed off my angry feeling and said “Well I guess I need to be getting to the gym more.”  While hurtful, she made a mistake with the rumor she had heard in our library.  She then tried to clarify and it was clear she may have had the wrong branch entirely.  

In the afternoon, I spent my time on the reference desk.  My most productive moment- read; where I knew what to do without having to ask my co-worker- was when I helped a woman access her audiobook via iTunes on her mac.  I then told her how to listen to it on her iPhone as well.  WIth her time constraint for listening to it, she was very pleased.  She also thought it was impressive I remembered her from my Facebook class.

PFE, November 14

Total hours: 114hrs

I spent my day at the reference desk.  Corrie was in interviews for the day but there was no behind the scenes work that needed doing.  So, I work at the reference desk.  I helped one woman several times by answering her excel question- how to send it as an attachment, how to find (binoculars tool), etc.  

I also updated the Teens page.  Today I added the International Gaming Day for Saturday, a new movie (Grown Ups 2), and two new CDs (Reflektor by Arcade Fire & Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack).  

    Later in the day, I explored Sierra, a new Millenium-esque interface.  Apparently, the green fall skin (half dome) can be changed to a gray scale (Glacier Point).  You can see how to do that for yourslef here: http://library.osu.edu/blogs/it/customize-your-sierra-display-settings/

The short answer is to go to admit -->setting → display → -->skins → select option

November 19th

Total Hours: 120hrs

Today’s computer basics class part 2 had 16 people.  Most were familiar faces from last week while others were new.  I have a list of computers in my notes which did not image properly- as in Java keeps prompting or others have Deep Freeze error messages.  These are those computers;
BTOP2- sign in to Patron side needed

CHAMP6- deep freeze reboot message, 3 and 5 as well

BTOP 7,8,9 need Java updates turned to OFF and NEVER update automatically

BTOP 9 needs self updates

CHAMP 7 & 9 need Internet Explorer on desktop

All silver laptops need projector software

Worked on scanner driver installation.  Trying to see if the scanner is still functional.  Scanner driver installation unsuccessful due to Windows XP being the oldest compatibility- the laptops and computers are Windows 7 and up.

November 21st

Total Hours: 126

Today's Microsoft Word class has six patrons.  The overall outline Lisa has for this class is the same as the last time we taught it, but it still just as smart.  Working left to right, she covers the major buttons that need to be used and encourages them not to stress out over the others.  She makes a joke about the use of a typewriter, indicating font/sizes as well as the spelling and underlining/italics/and coloring features.  Bullets and numbering are just as important as knowing how to change something once it has been added.  She also makes sure to teach them how to save and print for later use.  Inserting pictures is intermediate, but we made it to that step with this class.  

In the afternoon, I spent my time one-on-one teaching a basics patron and working at the reference desk.   

November 25th

Total Hours: 132 

     Today's notes are small.  Lisa and I spent the morning teaching the email class- part three of computer basics.  While we had fourteen people attending, we ran into the same issues as the last time we ran this class.  Even Yahoo required a mobile number, we tried using the library's telephone number but it only worked once. So, it came to a halt and the librarians of Cranston wish to write to Google of all the problems they (and other free email providers) are creating for people.   Alas, we are too busy.  I spent the afternoon at reference.

December 3rd & 5th
Total Hours: 142

     Tuesday was spent partially teaching computer basics part four, review and the scavenger hunt, to nine patrons.  The review went well and many patrons were confused to find out I was leaving and unable to continue one on one time.  From the class today, I had the sense that Facebook and other intermediate computer classes should be taught.  The afternoon was spent at the Welcome Desk, where I will be working occasionally on Sundays in the spring.  Thursday there is a staff breakfast as well as staff meetings.  It is there that I will talk about Minecraft with Ed and they will make another official announcement that I have accepted the part time teen librarian assistant position, which also starts in January.  I have had a great time at this library and am extremely pleased to be staying on longer.