Wikipedia as a library of knowledge + tips

Judy O'Donnell has written an interesting article on the role of Wikipedia which allows for the creation of a library of knowledge (as I see it) and how we as a global society can shape it.

There are also some useful tips on how to use Wikipedia in research as well.

However in a classroom context, I feel that while it can guide a student in understanding an idea or concept, they can easily fall into the trap of relying on it solely for gaining information. 

I'd only recommend Wikipedia as a starting point for a research task and generally should not be included in a reference list or bibliography. We need to encourage students to locate resources in different formats from different locations. Students also are taught how to verify their information as they can compare information from one source with another source to ensure that it is correct and accurate.

Library Lovers Day - Feb 14

Today is not just Valentines Day but also is Library Lovers Day. It is a day to celebrate those who celebrate and love libraries but also remind key decision makers how loved and appreciated they are by the community.

More information can be found here.

Paul Dillon Presentation - Feb 5 2014

I had an opportunity to attend a staff information session hosted by Paul Dillon on Wednesday at the MLC School in Burwood (where I'll be based for Term 1). Dillon is the director of the Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia. The session focused on Teens and underage drinking.

What was most surprising about the presentation was the message that he had for teachers. He told us that with teens, alcohol and the culture of binge drinking amongst Australians, there is really little that we can do to stop the problem. Teens will drink no matter what. How I see it is that we as teachers have to minimise the harm.

We were reminded of the importance of drug education, reminding us that we have to work with parents and the wider community to minimise the risk of harm. Also he explained to us which year group is the most vulnerable which according to research is Year 10. It happens that the biggest increase in underage drinking occurs during that year.

He did give us one piece of advice for teens and drinking and its a lesson that every person can do, not just teachers. That is one reason why I'm posting this entry.

We should be praising those that choose not to drink. They must not be chastised for whatever reason they choose not to drink e.g health, personal preferences, abstinence.

I think this is a big challenge living in a society where it is expected that one drinks in order to be accepted by others and seen as the way of life.

My challenge to you is to see if you can do it too. I know people who don't drink but I don't judge people like that.