About the Discover 2.0 Program

What is this all about?

Discover 2.0 aims to show you and your colleagues 23 things - new (or newish) web tools and trends that are increasingly popular in libraries and increasingly popular with our patrons. Blogging, MySpace, YouTube (for video sharing) and Flickr (for photo sharing) are just some of the things the program focuses on.

The goals of Discover 2.0 are very simple – you should explore, play, and have fun. Seriously, that’s all. There are no grades, there are no quizzes and participation is completely voluntary - increasing your awareness is accomplishment enough. You'll even get something for completing the program.

How does this online learning program work?

This self-discovery program encourages staff to take control of your own learning and to utilize lifelong learning skills through exploration and PLAY. There will be no classes or workshops offered to support this program. Instead, you are encouraged to work with your colleagues and share discoveries, techniques and "how to's" in person and through your blogs.

Is this program open to all FVRL staff or just some?

All regular staff are eligible to participate in this program. Substitutes of any level may also participate, but it must be done on your own time.

What do I get for completing the program?

Every staff person who satisfactorily completes the program within four months of starting it will get one paid day off (8 hours, prorated for part-time staff) that does not count against their vacation leave bank. If you have a significant vacation leave balance already, please contact Holly Blosser regarding an alternative reward.

How long do I have to complete the program?

The program kicks off in mid-December. You must complete the program within four months of the day you sign up in order to receive the paid day off.

How do I track my progress for each of the 23 Things?

Each staff member that chooses to participate in this program will be required to keep a blog to track their progress and will also need to register each item completed in the Discover 2.0 Participation Log found on the FVRL Intranet.

Can I work through the list of items in any order?

Yes, of course - once you have completed the introductory items (Items #1-4), feel free to work through the other units in any order you'd like.

What if I need help - who can I call?

Since this program is self-directed and is being completed by many staff members throughout the district simultaneously, you are encouraged to work with colleagues along your discovery journey. The tools you will be learning to use all have user forums or other types of help sections that can answer your questions also.

I would like to complete the program but don't feel comfortable with my co-workers reading my blog. Can I participate anonymously?

Yes & no. Since you control all the information that you share on your blog, you can choose to use a screen name to identify yourself to keep yourself anonymous. However, in order to receive the compensation, you will need to identify yourself to the Discover 2.0 staff (but not everyone else) via your Discover 2.0 Participation Log.

If I'm not an FVRL staff member, can I still participate?

Yes, by all means. However, FVRL cannot keep track of your progress nor are we able to award you a reward for completion.