From Creative Comons "adactio" photostream
No that isn’t a typo in the title this post is all about apps, specifically mobile apps for libraries and education. In this post I’ll explore the work going on around mobile libraries and list some of my favourite educations apps.
Recently a discussion on #UKlibchat (a fortnightly discussion group held on Twitter, you can find out more here) asked what mobile apps would you like to see in libraries. Two replies to this really caught my eye, the first from @joeyanne:
“I’d like to see innovative use of mobile functionality to help users find materials whilst in and out of library so in the library it might be augmented reality and location based services, out of the library would be electronic resources”
@joeyanne is the Twitter username of Jo Alcock who is working on the m-libraries support project. The aim of the m-library community support project as part of the JISC Mobile Infrastructure for Libraries programme is to “provide a mobile library community support project to help support and engage the emerging m-library community by reviewing and synthesising existing research and evidence-based guidance.” The project aims to build a collection of useful resources and case studies based on current developments using mobile technologies in libraries, and to foster a community for those working in the m-library area or interested in learning more. There is a brilliant presentation on Slideshare which Jo Alcock gave at the CoFHE 2011 Conference, available here which gives numerous examples of mobile technologies being used in libraries.
The second reply was from @calire: “I want an app that can scan a book barcode and tells me if it’s in my local library…”
To me this seemed like the most obvious choice for an app, there are so many shopping based services that do just that but what struck me from both comments is the ability for learners to be able to access learning resources both inside and outside the learning resource centre in a way that is convenient and easy to access, blending there learning and access to resources with their daily lives.
#UKlibchat also asked what are the advantages and disadvantages of mobile apps over mobile versions of websites?
• @librarydonna functionality better thought out, more user control and interactivity in general
• @JohnGreenaway unless after really fancy stuff like augmented reality – mobile web much more cost effective to reach lots of models
• @librarydonna disad of apps – have to download, mobile version of web quicker
• @joeyanne Interesting article on mobile web vs. mobile app:http://t.co/Uf4NKa9F Useful graph on how people use them both
There have been some great discussions on #UKlibchat about apps for libraries/Learning Resource Centres. I highly recommend joining in #UKlibchat if you get a chance or keep an eye on the blog for a summary of the conversations.
If you’re interested in that you might also be interested in Educational Technology Creative Collection. It is a collaboration of educators investigating and experimenting with digital technologies to enhance education. It is open to anyone (especially educators). The first iteration of #edtechcc will run for 12 weeks and enrolment is now open. You can register here.
I did also mention at the start that I would be looking at some useful apps for education. I’ve compiled a short list below of some of my favourite apps, please feel free to share your ideas by commenting below, on Twitter @sharon_crossan or @rscwales or get in touch here. Some other posts from the RSC Blogs which might be of use are Codes, symbols and nearest tubes: Augmented Reality and Mobile Phones – Blessing or Curse?
So here are a list of some of my favourite apps for learning and access to resources:
• iProcrastinate (for Mac/iPhone): Task management app designed to help students plan their schedule.
• inClass (forMac/iPhone): Task management app which also lets you take multimedia notes.
• Quizlet: Make your own flashcards
• Bluefire Reader: An e-book reader (also lets you read the free e-books from the public library e-book pilot project)
• Evernote: Note taking app that can also synchronise across devices.
• Mendeley: For reading and organising papers.
• Aurasma: An augmented reality creator.
• Bambuser: For live video streaming
• Qik Video: For video sharing
