Module 9 Lesson

1.        MediaSite video of the lecture on “Library ILS”

It was one of my favorite lectures throughout this course. The MLIS degree we are pursuing is for the United States, but I think it is always good and important to learn about related topics around the world.

The YouTube video about technology in Uganda was very surprising. I think that having the latest technology doesn’t necessary mean the best way for all people, but I think that governments should try their best to provide equal access to all citizens so that they can make a choice.

I was moved by the Room to Read program in Nepal established by John Wood. Through the video, I realized that libraries can not only help kids to have reading habit, but also give opportunity for kids to be able to read. To know that many women are unreadable was shocking to me, but also to realize that libraries have so much influence to educating children was powerful. To support children’s education as a librarian definitely became one of my interests after watching the video.

The last video was also great. I learned that technology and the Internet now enable everyone including disabled people to access information. I was amazed that the blind lady could use a computer and do a search perfectly. The technology which helps rich people richer is not inspiring to me, but the technology which help physically challenged people to have more opportunity is simply amazing.

2.        TEDTalk video: “Anil Gupta: India’s hidden hotbeds of invention”

This video had a lot of impacts to me for a few reasons. First, I knew that India had the wide gap between rich and poor, but I did not know that there were so many poor labors. I was impressed by Anil Gupta that he did not get arrogant by his circumstances, rather always sought for helping others. I think if every wealthy or successful professional seriously started to think what they can do for poor labors like Gupta did, it will be a better world.

I agree with Gupta that minds on the margin are not marginal minds. I was thrilled to see all the devices which are filled with wisdom of living. Especially I really liked the bike that can cross a river. I live by a river, and in order to go to grocery shopping or a restaurant, I need to cross the river. The bridges have terrible traffic, so if I could buy it, I will definitely buy one. I realized there are so many things we can learn from grassroots innovators.

I think that the Honey Bee Network is amazing. The concept of the Honey Bee Network is something that information professionals should learn and know. I believe the Internet and social media enable to support grassroots innovators like what Honey Bee Network is doing.