WebLive: Online Training Option
Offers Live Instruction at a Distance
By Sharon Hoffhines
This fall we are introducing BCR WebLive training, featuring a live BCR instructor in a virtual classroom
on the Web. WebLive is one more option among BCR's array of training opportunities — live classroom
training; self-paced online workshops and tutorials; and teleconference downlinks and webcasts.
Using both audio and video connections, WebLive training participants can see and hear as if they were in an actual classroom setting. Participants can ask questions during class. Instructors can share their software applications with participants and display class content via slide presentations.
BCR staff have developed WebLive classes to better meet members' training needs. Too often it is difficult for library staff to travel to attend regular classroom training. BCR WebLive allows staff to attend classes and Web conferences while eliminating the time and expense required for travel.
To participate in WebLive classes and Web conferences, all that's needed are a computer (minimum of 128 MB of RAM, although 256 MB is recommended); Internet Explorer 5.5 Web browser, Java enabled; speakers; and Internet access of 56k or above. A microphone connected to the computer is optional for the audio, which also is available by a long-distance phone bridge (not a toll-free number).
We are using HorizonWimba, a Web-based collaboration software designed for online, interactive education. BCR trainers first introduced members to BCR's new live virtual classroom earlier this year with free Web conferences on using HeritageQuest databases and on new technical terminology. This fall, more free, one-hour Web conferences are scheduled. The first of BCR's regular classes converted into WebLive training sessions will be available in December. In addition to two added sessions (both filled to 25-virtual seat capacity) of "Tech Terminology," watch for free Web conferences on the H.W. Wilson interface and retrospective databases, OCLC's Open WorldCat project, Books24x7, CQ Press, OCLC WorldCat Collection Analysis and WebDewey, McGraw-Hill Access-Medicine and Digital Engineering Library databases, Morningstar.com and a comparison of Facts.com and CQ Researcher databases.
With an eye toward December presentations, trainers are converting regular BCR workshops on OCLC WorldCat Resource Sharing, OCLC Authorities, OCLC Connexion client and "Using Google: Latest Tips and Tricks" into WebLive training. These regular full-day BCR workshops will be offered in 1.5-hour to 2- hour segments at a cost of $40 per segment A discounted fee will be available for library staff who want to take all the segments of a class. A class may consist of three or four segments. (Please note that this is a change from the total class fee included in the October print edition of the newsletter, which indicated classes would be broken into three segments with a total fee of $110 for all three segments of that class.) Participants may register for an individual segment or for all three sessions.
Most of the Web conferences and WebLive classes will be recorded and archived on BCR's Web site, with access available to participants.
Although the Web conferences and WebLive training are still in development, watch for announcements of when the sessions are scheduled in the quarterly BCR Workshop Calendar, the BCR-L mailing list, BCR Continuing Education RSS feed and on the Web at www.bcr.org/. Unlike announcements for BCR's classroom training, no paper fliers will be mailed to libraries for the WebLive training and Web conferences.
Register for both the WebLive training and free Web conferences using BCR's regular online registration form at www.bcr.org/training/workshops/register.html. After registering, each individual will receive an e-mail message with instructions on what to do to participate, including how to download the free wizard needed to access the virtual sessions. If you have questions, contact BCR's Rosario Garza (rgarza@bcr.org) or Ellen Fox (efox@bcr.org).
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February 27, 2008
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