Google Reader and Tumblr

[Julia Loving]

I would think these both of these tools would come very natural for me as a Librarian, but quite the opposite. Google Reader took a while for me to figure out and I'm still not sure if I am quite doing it the correct way or not. Tumblr was a lot simpler to user for me. Using Google News and Google Reader I found pertinent articles but having so many articles is rather overwhelming. Is there a way to limit the number possible by using boolean operators or being more specific. I decided that my self directed inquiry will be Everyday Life in Ancient Egypt. I will be going to Egypt for the second time this Sunday and I thought that would be a great to have more information about the place.
I hear in the whispers that some people are also having problems with Google Reader. When I direct students how to use certain tools I would like to be totally clear on using it myself. I think the instructions could have been a little clearer. This tool I had difficulty navigating. I play with Google Reader I bit more to try to iron out my own issues with the tool.

[Mat]

I love the google reader it is like one stop shopping for news. I think it could be overwhelming for research, but just for a place to read the news it is great.

[Julie]

Lots of problems and frustration today, all around. That's okay, that's part of learning processes. Not everything comes easily, although it's painful for us adults (and kids too!) to deal with sometimes. Coupled with the frustration is the *why?* as well as the how of using the tools.

Great inquiry topic -- a way of preparing yourself for your trip as well as making a place to collect what you learn when you go, so you can keep passing it all on to others...