Prioritizing Digital Citizenship in Our Libraries

As I work at the library, I have always understood the significance of promoting digital literacy and responsible online behavior among our students.  However, the Digital Citizenship course I recently undertook has been an eye-opener, shedding light on the critical importance of this aspect in today's digital age. The most important thing I learned in this course is that digital citizenship is using technology safely, effectively, and responsibly to contribute positively to the digital community.

Integrating digital citizenship in the library is vital for empowering students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world confidently. One key aspect I plan to implement is regular monitoring of students using computers. Because I don't teach, I will informally discuss online privacy, cyberbullying, fact-checking, and digital footprints when students visit the library. This will be my contribution to helping educate our students on the potential risks and rewards of the digital world, equipping them to make informed decisions and engage in responsible online behavior.

Moreover, I also intend to incorporate digital citizenship themes into our library programming. For instance, organizing book clubs or discussion groups focusing on digital literacy and ethics can encourage meaningful conversations. 

Furthermore, creating a digital citizenship corner in the library featuring resources, infographics, and interactive displays can serve as a constant reminder and resource for patrons to learn about and practice good digital citizenship.

By prioritizing digital citizenship in our library, we are not just facilitating safer online experiences but also nurturing our students as responsible digital citizens who understand the power and responsibility of using digital resources. I am committed to fostering a digital environment that encourages critical thinking, empathy, and the ethical use of technology.

Click the link below for more information and additional resources:

DIGITALLEARN.ORG

DEMCO

WEBJUCTION.ORG

End of course reflection

 

Within five weeks, this course gave me additional fresh tools for learning about Google Apps and their capabilities. I've learned how these apps can assist our library in enhancing our operations, communication, and organization. Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms are used in many ways in our library with our Library Coop students to organize materials, track data, and develop surveys and feedback forms. 

I will continue incorporating Google Applications into the library. Google Drive is always helpful for organizing all my library documents for quick access and collaboration with our COOP students. Google Calendar is always my go-to for planning library events, activities, workshops, and sessions.  

Above all, I'd like to learn more about Google Sites. This will allow me to create an engaging, high-quality website, to increase our library's digital presence. I could use Google Sites to build a welcoming and interactive platform for students to access electronic materials, promote library programs, share library news, and schedule to borrow our Makerspace equipment for better accountability.

Benefits and Lessons Learned from Volunteering

Benefits and Lessons Learned from Volunteering

In 2001, a friend and employee of the Quezon City Red Cross invited me to attend a free First Aid and CPR training weekend. The experience was enjoyable, and I learned a lot. Encouraged by my success, my friend suggested I volunteer with the Disaster Management Services. Despite my ongoing studies, I agreed. It disappointed my mother to prioritize volunteering over graduation, but she eventually accepted my decision. 

I devoted considerable effort to my volunteer work, often including additional training sessions. These opportunities made me happy, allowing me to travel and meet new people. I was on call for disasters such as fire (SUNOG) or flooding (BAHA). 

In 2002, following a 15-day train-the-trainer course in Antipolo, Rizal, the Quezon City Red Cross established the Barangay Disaster Action Team, wherein a 'Barangay' is the smallest administrative division in the Philippines. I was honored to be selected as one of the trainers for this important initiative, funded by the Danish Red Cross. 

The training focused on disaster prevention and preparation, which was exciting and memorable. Despite my initial apprehensions about public speaking, I eventually found the confidence to talk in front of  Barangay officials. 

While volunteering was challenging and often left me physically exhausted, I found the experience satisfying and rewarding. I have no regrets about my decision to volunteer and consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to contribute to a leading humanitarian organization like the Red Cross.

Philippine National Red Cross

American Red Cross

MY ETEEAP JOURNEY

This year, 2022, marked the achievement of one of my many goals. I finally graduated with a Bachelor's in Library and Information Science from the University of Batangas. This was possible through the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP), executed under Executive Order Number 330 and administered by the Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines. This program allowed me to advance my education by acknowledging and awarding credits for my proficiency and comprehensive knowledge in my field of work. Interacting with the competent professors at the University of Batangas was a remarkable experience.

My experience with the UB-ETEEAP was enlightening and taught me three main things. Firstly, I learned that pursuing a degree such as a Bachelor's at the University of Batangas is possible, even for those unable to attend regular classroom sessions. Secondly, I discovered that experiences from ETEEAP management and hands-on learning are crucial for passing comprehensive examinations. These examinations focused more on the practical application of subjects, reflecting the intellectual maturity essential for ETEEAP. Lastly, I realized that professors could still be effective despite their physical absence. The ETEEAP professors who facilitated my learning didn't have to meet regularly with me; instead, we utilized email and chat to cover a wide range of subjects. Communication between my advisor and me was possible 24/7, meaning our virtual learning sessions faced no restrictions. 

For these reasons, I am genuinely grateful to those who conceptualized this revolutionary program, benefiting many Filipinos who aspire to complete higher education but are limited due to an inability to attend traditional classes. I also extend my gratitude to the professors of the University of Batangas currently involved in ETEEAP for their dedication and commitment to maintaining the program.