Two Filipino Blograrians, Von Totanes and Arnold Zafra, are in the list of nominees for this year's Philippine Blog Awards. Well, their blogs are there and not their names. But this is an interesting development in the field of IT dominated by the technocrats. One continuing challenge for us librarains is to to make our presence felt. In an ever changing digital environment, the more we are needed to make meaning out of the chaos; to provide sense in a deluge of information from varied resources; and to perserve intellectual rights and cultural heritage of our peoples.
Von's blog is under the Socio-Political category while Arnold's is in the Technology category. To Von and Arnold, good luck! I hope that you both win in your respective category.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Monday, March 12, 2007
Librarian Egroups
Ivan Chew, Rambling Librarian from Singapore, opened a new group over at Google. He describes Librarians in Singapore as an informal networking group for librarians living & working in Singapore. He provides these additional notes to the description - But you DON'T have to be Singaporean or even a librarian. Join us if you're interested/ curious about "Libraries and Librarians".
The last two sentences were words of encouragement for me to join and see what it can offer a Filipino Librarain like myself. I belong to several egoups already and online communities, but all are proudly Pinoy made like Pinoy Teachers Network and Von Totanes' Filipino Librarians Egroup at Google.
Ir would be interesting to see how discussions go in each egroup. For one, I can compare how librarians in Singapore and other parts of the world percieve their work and profession. Are they any different from Filipino Librarians in terms of using the Internet for library related work in particular and life, in general? There will be similarities too. Then again, in a global community, differences and similarities matter a little. It is how one conducts himself or herself that spells the difference.
The last two sentences were words of encouragement for me to join and see what it can offer a Filipino Librarain like myself. I belong to several egoups already and online communities, but all are proudly Pinoy made like Pinoy Teachers Network and Von Totanes' Filipino Librarians Egroup at Google.
Ir would be interesting to see how discussions go in each egroup. For one, I can compare how librarians in Singapore and other parts of the world percieve their work and profession. Are they any different from Filipino Librarians in terms of using the Internet for library related work in particular and life, in general? There will be similarities too. Then again, in a global community, differences and similarities matter a little. It is how one conducts himself or herself that spells the difference.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
The Secret Life of a Librarian
I got this meme from Janette Toral (5 Things People Don't Usually Know About Me). Go to the link and it's dated December 31, 2006. If not for the tracking system I have in this blog, I would have not known that she tagged me. As the saying goes, better late than never.
People don't usually know that...
1. I won the grand prize of Php 75,000.00 in the 75th PLAI Anniversary Raffle. It was Prof. Agcaoili of UST who picked my name from the "tambiolo". That was in 1997. Now I wonder what luck awaits me ten years after. Don't ask me what I did with the money or how I spent it. I'm never good at saving and investing my finances.
2. I have appeared on TV twice already. The first time was way back in the late 90s when I was still a storyteller for National Book Store. The TV appearance was for a promotional pitch for the Berenstein Bears Chapter books. I read aloud a portion of the story to some studio kids. It was the morning show of Plinky Recto and some newscaster guy. I can't remember his name now. I was so nervous! It was a live show. The second time, I was more relaxed. It was for Augie Rivera's Art Angel. There I met Pia Arcanghel for the first time. Too bad, I didn't get to see myself in both shows.
3. My first published article was for Philippine Star, Family & Life Section. I wrote about kids and the things they can do for summer while school is out. I still keep the clipped article to this day. And if my memory serves me right, it was also in 1997 when the article got published.
4. I was born on the feast of the Assumption. Being Catholic, I consider this a blessing.
5. I was a preschool teacher before becoming a librarian. I had to pass the board exam and when I did, I took the road less traveled. I never looked back since then.
For this meme, I am tagging Peachy (who I miss terribly),Ria (who likes doing memes) and Ian (who is such an interesting person).
People don't usually know that...
1. I won the grand prize of Php 75,000.00 in the 75th PLAI Anniversary Raffle. It was Prof. Agcaoili of UST who picked my name from the "tambiolo". That was in 1997. Now I wonder what luck awaits me ten years after. Don't ask me what I did with the money or how I spent it. I'm never good at saving and investing my finances.
2. I have appeared on TV twice already. The first time was way back in the late 90s when I was still a storyteller for National Book Store. The TV appearance was for a promotional pitch for the Berenstein Bears Chapter books. I read aloud a portion of the story to some studio kids. It was the morning show of Plinky Recto and some newscaster guy. I can't remember his name now. I was so nervous! It was a live show. The second time, I was more relaxed. It was for Augie Rivera's Art Angel. There I met Pia Arcanghel for the first time. Too bad, I didn't get to see myself in both shows.
3. My first published article was for Philippine Star, Family & Life Section. I wrote about kids and the things they can do for summer while school is out. I still keep the clipped article to this day. And if my memory serves me right, it was also in 1997 when the article got published.
4. I was born on the feast of the Assumption. Being Catholic, I consider this a blessing.
5. I was a preschool teacher before becoming a librarian. I had to pass the board exam and when I did, I took the road less traveled. I never looked back since then.
For this meme, I am tagging Peachy (who I miss terribly),Ria (who likes doing memes) and Ian (who is such an interesting person).
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
iBlog 3
'Tis the blogging season again! The link for the 3rd Blogging Summit is here. The program promises to be as interesting as the past two years since it offers bloggers from all ages old favorites and promising new names. There are a good number of women bloggers who will be speaking, but I'm a wee bit disappointed to find none (male or female) in the field of education and librarianship.
Anyhoo, I hope to go even with a full April schedule. See you there!
Anyhoo, I hope to go even with a full April schedule. See you there!
Monday, March 5, 2007
Be a Pinoy Storyteller!
ALITAPTAP STORYTELLERS PHILIPPINES, whose mission is to promote love for reading through the art of storytelling will have the
ARTIST WORKSHOP
(Acting and Reading Techniques In StoryTelling)
on April 21-22, 2007, 9 am – 5 pm at the Executive Lounge, The National Library of the Philippines
Join in as the best storytellers in the country conduct this two-day affair of lectures, exercise – activities and get a chance to tell your own favorite story.
Workshop fee is Php. 500.00
For more details, please contact
Mobile No. 0917-5392630
Office no. 535.4639
Email us at alitaptap_storytellers@yahoo.com
Pag nagkuwento si tatay, mga Kuwento’y nabubuhay!
ARTIST WORKSHOP
(Acting and Reading Techniques In StoryTelling)
on April 21-22, 2007, 9 am – 5 pm at the Executive Lounge, The National Library of the Philippines
Join in as the best storytellers in the country conduct this two-day affair of lectures, exercise – activities and get a chance to tell your own favorite story.
Workshop fee is Php. 500.00
For more details, please contact
Mobile No. 0917-5392630
Office no. 535.4639
Email us at alitaptap_storytellers@yahoo.com
Pag nagkuwento si tatay, mga Kuwento’y nabubuhay!
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Maningning Poetry Writing Contest 2007
2007 MANINGNING MICLAT POETRY AWARDS CALL FOR ENTRIES
TheManingning Miclat ArtFoundation, Inc. (MMAFI)is calling on young poets writing in Filipino, English and Chinese to participate in the 2007 Maningning Poetry Competition.
The Poetry Contestconsisting of 3 divisions -Filipino, English and Chinese – is open toall poets, age 28and below. An entry must consist of at least eight (8) but not more than fifteen (15) poems. Authors may join all the divisions but can submit only one (1) entry in every division. All entries should be original in every language and not a translation of another entry.
All entries should be submitted in four(4) copies, double spaced on 81/2 x 11 inches bond paper with one inch margin on all sides and with ARIAL or TIMES NEW ROMAN size 12 font. Entry should be submitted with pen name only. Real name and pen name should be submitted in a separate sealed envelop together with a biodata, copy of birth certificate and a notarized declaration of originality and authenticity of authorship of the entry.
Entries must be addressed to the Maningning Miclat Art Foundation, Inc. (MMAFI), 2nd Floor Mile Long Building, AmorsoloSt., Legaspi Village, Makati City(Tel No. 816-7490to91) not later than 5:00 P.M. of April 17, 2007. Entries sent by mail should be postmarked/invoiced not later than April 3, 2007.
Maningning Miclat was a multiawarded artist, trilingual poet and creative writer, translator and teacher. Her trilingual book of poetry, "Voice from the Underworld" has earned raves not only from English and Filipino readersbutalsofrom Chinese readers.Miclathas been anthologized in Beijing in a bookfeaturingthe World'sTop 39women poets writing in Chinese, which included her.
The Maningning Miclat Award has been launchedto honor her short but meaningful life and to encourage, recognize and nurture young talentslike her. Every year since 2003, MMAFI has been awarding outstanding poets during odd numbered years and winning painters during even numbered years. This year's grandwinnerswill receive PhP28, 000.00 cash award for eachof the 3 categories, copies of collector's edition of"Voice from the Underworld" and"Beauty for Ashes : Remembering Maningning"as well as the Miclat family journal, Beyond the Great Walland trophiesby theeminent sculptor, Julie Lluch. Log on to www.maningning.comand email maningningfoundation@gmail.com formore information.
2007MANINGNING MICLAT POETRY AWARD
RULES OF THE CONTEST
1. The contest is open to all poets of all nationalities, age 28and below.
2. There are three divisions in the awards: (a) Filipino (b) English (c) Chinese.
3. An entry must consist of at least eight (8) but not more than fifteen (15) poems.
4. Authors may join all the divisions but can submit only one (1) entry in every division.
5. All entries should be original in every language and not a translation of another entry.
6. A work which has been awarded a prize in another contest is not qualified for the awards.
7. Published or unpublished works may be entered in the contest.If published, the date of publication should be within 2006-2007.
8. All entries should be submitted in four (4) copies, double spaced on 8 ½ x 11 inches bond paper with one inch margin on all sides and the page number typed consecutively, e.g.,1 of 10, 2 of 10,and so on.Font should be ARIAL or TIMES NEW ROMAN, and the font size should be 12.Entry should be submitted with pen name only and not real name.
Real name and pen name should be submitted in a separate sealed envelope together with a biodata, copy of birth certificate and a notarized declaration of originality and authenticity of authorship of the entry.
9. Entries must be addressed to the Maningning Miclat Art Foundation, Inc. (MMAFI) , 2/F, Mile long Building, Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City not later than April 17, 2007.Entries sent by mail or courier should be postmarked/invoiced not later than April 2, 2007.
10. Entries submitted via e-mail should be an RTF (Ritch Text Format) or a Word Document file and should be sent as an attachment together with the author's biodata and copy of birth certificate and notarized certification of originality or authenticity of authorship of entry.The original copy of the notarized certification should then be sent to MMAFI thru mail.Entries submitted via e-mail should be transmitted not later than April 17, 2007.
11. Submitted copies of winning entries shall remain with and become the property of MMAFI. Copyright of the works remains with the author but the latter grants, assigns and transfers into MMAFI the right without necessity of any payment other than the prize which may have been awarded to publish any winning entry or selection or portion thereof as it may at its discretion determine; to make the work available for downloading on the Internet or other electronic medium; and /or to allow students to make copies for research or in connection with their school requirements.
12. Plagiarism is anathema to the contest and MMAFI has the right of action against the author, if it may be later on discovered that said person is not the creator or owner of the copyright to the winning work. The foundation shall not be liable to any court action if a third party files a case against the winner who plagiarized the work of the said third party.
13. There will only be one Grand Prize winner for each division and the prize is P 28,000.00 and a trophy per winning entry.
14. The Board of Judges shall have the discretion not to award any prize if in its judgment, no meritorious entry had been submitted.
15. MMAFI has the sole right to designate the persons who shall constitute the Board of Judges in each division of the contest.The decision of the majority of the Board of Judges in all divisions shall be final.
16. The names of the winners and the members of the Board of Judges shall be announced on September 29, 2007.
TheManingning Miclat ArtFoundation, Inc. (MMAFI)is calling on young poets writing in Filipino, English and Chinese to participate in the 2007 Maningning Poetry Competition.
The Poetry Contestconsisting of 3 divisions -Filipino, English and Chinese – is open toall poets, age 28and below. An entry must consist of at least eight (8) but not more than fifteen (15) poems. Authors may join all the divisions but can submit only one (1) entry in every division. All entries should be original in every language and not a translation of another entry.
All entries should be submitted in four(4) copies, double spaced on 81/2 x 11 inches bond paper with one inch margin on all sides and with ARIAL or TIMES NEW ROMAN size 12 font. Entry should be submitted with pen name only. Real name and pen name should be submitted in a separate sealed envelop together with a biodata, copy of birth certificate and a notarized declaration of originality and authenticity of authorship of the entry.
Entries must be addressed to the Maningning Miclat Art Foundation, Inc. (MMAFI), 2nd Floor Mile Long Building, AmorsoloSt., Legaspi Village, Makati City(Tel No. 816-7490to91) not later than 5:00 P.M. of April 17, 2007. Entries sent by mail should be postmarked/invoiced not later than April 3, 2007.
Maningning Miclat was a multiawarded artist, trilingual poet and creative writer, translator and teacher. Her trilingual book of poetry, "Voice from the Underworld" has earned raves not only from English and Filipino readersbutalsofrom Chinese readers.Miclathas been anthologized in Beijing in a bookfeaturingthe World'sTop 39women poets writing in Chinese, which included her.
The Maningning Miclat Award has been launchedto honor her short but meaningful life and to encourage, recognize and nurture young talentslike her. Every year since 2003, MMAFI has been awarding outstanding poets during odd numbered years and winning painters during even numbered years. This year's grandwinnerswill receive PhP28, 000.00 cash award for eachof the 3 categories, copies of collector's edition of"Voice from the Underworld" and"Beauty for Ashes : Remembering Maningning"as well as the Miclat family journal, Beyond the Great Walland trophiesby theeminent sculptor, Julie Lluch. Log on to www.maningning.comand email maningningfoundation@gmail.com formore information.
2007MANINGNING MICLAT POETRY AWARD
RULES OF THE CONTEST
1. The contest is open to all poets of all nationalities, age 28and below.
2. There are three divisions in the awards: (a) Filipino (b) English (c) Chinese.
3. An entry must consist of at least eight (8) but not more than fifteen (15) poems.
4. Authors may join all the divisions but can submit only one (1) entry in every division.
5. All entries should be original in every language and not a translation of another entry.
6. A work which has been awarded a prize in another contest is not qualified for the awards.
7. Published or unpublished works may be entered in the contest.If published, the date of publication should be within 2006-2007.
8. All entries should be submitted in four (4) copies, double spaced on 8 ½ x 11 inches bond paper with one inch margin on all sides and the page number typed consecutively, e.g.,1 of 10, 2 of 10,and so on.Font should be ARIAL or TIMES NEW ROMAN, and the font size should be 12.Entry should be submitted with pen name only and not real name.
Real name and pen name should be submitted in a separate sealed envelope together with a biodata, copy of birth certificate and a notarized declaration of originality and authenticity of authorship of the entry.
9. Entries must be addressed to the Maningning Miclat Art Foundation, Inc. (MMAFI) , 2/F, Mile long Building, Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City not later than April 17, 2007.Entries sent by mail or courier should be postmarked/invoiced not later than April 2, 2007.
10. Entries submitted via e-mail should be an RTF (Ritch Text Format) or a Word Document file and should be sent as an attachment together with the author's biodata and copy of birth certificate and notarized certification of originality or authenticity of authorship of entry.The original copy of the notarized certification should then be sent to MMAFI thru mail.Entries submitted via e-mail should be transmitted not later than April 17, 2007.
11. Submitted copies of winning entries shall remain with and become the property of MMAFI. Copyright of the works remains with the author but the latter grants, assigns and transfers into MMAFI the right without necessity of any payment other than the prize which may have been awarded to publish any winning entry or selection or portion thereof as it may at its discretion determine; to make the work available for downloading on the Internet or other electronic medium; and /or to allow students to make copies for research or in connection with their school requirements.
12. Plagiarism is anathema to the contest and MMAFI has the right of action against the author, if it may be later on discovered that said person is not the creator or owner of the copyright to the winning work. The foundation shall not be liable to any court action if a third party files a case against the winner who plagiarized the work of the said third party.
13. There will only be one Grand Prize winner for each division and the prize is P 28,000.00 and a trophy per winning entry.
14. The Board of Judges shall have the discretion not to award any prize if in its judgment, no meritorious entry had been submitted.
15. MMAFI has the sole right to designate the persons who shall constitute the Board of Judges in each division of the contest.The decision of the majority of the Board of Judges in all divisions shall be final.
16. The names of the winners and the members of the Board of Judges shall be announced on September 29, 2007.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Circulation Statistics
I am not fasting from blogging. The Filipino Librarian is. The promised post on related library issue is finally here. My apologies for the delay. I have been sick and work is a monster I can not tame.
For the meantime, allow me to share with you this information regarding borowing of faculty and staff. Our statistics are low this year and it prompted us to look closely at factors affecting the trend. Below are the recommendations.
Factors attributing to low circulation by Faculty & Staff
1. Time – structures and schedules do not allow them to read and borrow print resources;
2. Technology – the utility of electronic sources (websites, etc) has more appeal to them than printed formats.
• However, teachers and staff must understand that different information technology (books and periodicals included) address different information needs and learning styles.
3. Library Promotion Strategies – some techniques to make them aware of existing and new resources may not be effective any longer.
• A more aggressive and creative way to inform them of the resources available for circulation is a challenge.
4. Purpose for using print materials – books and periodicals are primarily used as materials that provide information.
• In the context of instruction, such resources can be used as actual learning tools.
Recommendations from the GS LRC
1. Schedule a monthly library period for each department. This can run for 30 to 45 minutes where in librarians can also present new ways to use instructional materials to teachers.
2. Librarians are expected to do book talks and reviews of current instructional materials every month for each department or cluster (Science – Math; Filipino-Social Studies; Music-Arts; CMSO-Guidance).
3. Use the GS LRC’s blog to promote the library’s resources. This way, technology is used to reach out to tech savvy teachers.
4. Reward teachers and staff who frequently use/borrow at the end of every quarter with a certificate or affirmation.
5. Indicate in CS (Clinical Supervision) the importance of reading professional books, journals and the utility of print materials in instruction.
For the meantime, allow me to share with you this information regarding borowing of faculty and staff. Our statistics are low this year and it prompted us to look closely at factors affecting the trend. Below are the recommendations.
Factors attributing to low circulation by Faculty & Staff
1. Time – structures and schedules do not allow them to read and borrow print resources;
2. Technology – the utility of electronic sources (websites, etc) has more appeal to them than printed formats.
• However, teachers and staff must understand that different information technology (books and periodicals included) address different information needs and learning styles.
3. Library Promotion Strategies – some techniques to make them aware of existing and new resources may not be effective any longer.
• A more aggressive and creative way to inform them of the resources available for circulation is a challenge.
4. Purpose for using print materials – books and periodicals are primarily used as materials that provide information.
• In the context of instruction, such resources can be used as actual learning tools.
Recommendations from the GS LRC
1. Schedule a monthly library period for each department. This can run for 30 to 45 minutes where in librarians can also present new ways to use instructional materials to teachers.
2. Librarians are expected to do book talks and reviews of current instructional materials every month for each department or cluster (Science – Math; Filipino-Social Studies; Music-Arts; CMSO-Guidance).
3. Use the GS LRC’s blog to promote the library’s resources. This way, technology is used to reach out to tech savvy teachers.
4. Reward teachers and staff who frequently use/borrow at the end of every quarter with a certificate or affirmation.
5. Indicate in CS (Clinical Supervision) the importance of reading professional books, journals and the utility of print materials in instruction.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
CCP's Line Up of Summer Activities for Kids
I am breaking the long silence with these Summer Activities for kids in the CCP. Keep them kids busy this summer! Don't let them be idle!
Will have a (more) library related post tomorrow. Promise!
Will have a (more) library related post tomorrow. Promise!
Music
SAMU’TSARING TINIG 9: A Concert of Children’s Choirs
Tanghalang N. Abelardo, 23 February 2007, 7:00 p.m.
Now on its 9th year, the 2007 Samu’tsaring Tinig Concert will focus on outstanding children’s choirs who have made a name in the local choral music scene, and have won national and international competitions. These include the Hail Mary the Queen Children’s Choir, Kilyawan Boys Choir, Philippine Chlidren’s Choir of Mandaluyong, the Chiang Kai Shek Youth Choir, St. Scholastica’s College Children’s Choir and others.
CONCERT FOR NURSING MOTHERS, BABIES AND TODDLERS
Tanghalang N. Abelardo Lobby, 1 July 2007, 3:00 p.m.
An orchestral concert for pregnant and nursing mothers, babies, toddlers and families.
PPO CONCERT FOR HEALING IN MINDANAO
Mindanao, September 2007
A special outreach concert of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra for the communities in Mindanao.
Theater
3rd VIRGIN LABEST
CCP Venues, 22 June-8 July 2007
Playfest of untested, unpublished and unstaged works. The 3rd Virgin Labrfest is envisioned to be of larger scope introducing other related activities and events. The main event shall be the production of ten-minute to one-act plays to be categorized according to theme, style and genre. New categories are regional and international works, devised and/or collaborative pieces, short musicales and children’s short plays.
Other Performances
LAUNCHING OF THE CHILDREN’S EMPOWERMENT AWARDS PROJECT OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE RIGHTS OF CHILDREN IN SOUTH EAST ASIA (ARCSEA), 3 March 2007 – Kite Flying Event, Liwasang Ipil Ipil, 3:30 p.m.
ARCSEA is a pioneering non-governmental organization promoting the rights of Filipino children specifically to survival and development. This year, they will launch the Children’s Empowerment Awards project, a search for the best ideas and projects that children’s groups or children’s clubs in communities plan to undertake as their contribution to community development. The project will culminate in an awarding ceremony slated in the end of this year.
SUPLING
Tanghalang N. Abelardo, 25 April 2007
Philippine Pediatric Society’s Diamond Jubilee Gala Night. A cultural show featuring various artists and performing groups.
Radio Production
WAN DEY ISANG ARAW
Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., DZAS
A weekly radio program for chidren based on classic and contemporary Pinoy literature. Going on its third year, this is one of the few radio programs for the Pinoy child. Aside from the stories’ inherent social and cultural values, each episode features works by some of the finest writers of Filipino children’s literature. This CCP production is in cooperation with DZAS, Philippine Board on Books for Young People (PBBY) and Alitaptap Storytellers.
Workshops
• Music
THE PHILIPPINE PHILHARMONIC ORHCESTRA (PPO) MUSIC SCHOOL
- Begiinner, intermediate and advance lessons in the individual instruments of the orchestra (woodwind, brass, strings, harp, piano and percussion instruments)
For children from ages 7 years old and above; teens and adults.
- Beginner, intermediate and advanced Lessons in Voice.
For children and teens (boys from 12 years old and above; girls from 8 years old and above), and adults.
• Dance
PANGKAT PAMBATA WORKSHOP
10 April-4 May 2007
Basic folk dance workshop for children from 7 to 12 years old conducted by the Philippine Folk Dance Society.
Workshop Fee: P1,000
• Theater
CHILDREN’S THEATER I: Creative Dramatics for Children
10 April-2 May 2007 (Tuesday-Saturday), 8:00 a.m.-12:00 noon
For children ages 5-8 years old.
Number of sessions: 16
Workshop Fee: P5,000
CHILDREN’S THEATER II: Creative Dramatics for Children
10 April-2 May 2007, (Tuesday-Saturday), 8:00 a.m.-12:00 noon
For children ages 9-11 years old.
Number of sessions: 16
Workshop Fee: P5,000
• Visual Arts
CHILDREN’S ART WORKSHOP
18 April-18 May 2007, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon
Workshop Fee: P3,000
• Media Arts
ART AND ANIMATION WORKSHOP FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS
24 April-5 May 2007
For children and teens from 11-16 years old. The workshop will cover plastic illustration and animation techniques, introduction to frame-by-frame, storyboard and flipbook.
Workshop Fee: P3,000
• Literary Arts
BATANG-SINING
A five-day creative expression workshop for children (ages 6-13) that involves poetry-writing, storytelling, theatrical presentation, puppetry, art and book-making. It is aimed at developing skills in creative expression to enable children to communicate artistically and discover their creativity, and keep them from vices. Artists who are experts in children’s education will serve as resource persons.
Occidental Mindoro, 10-13 April 2007
Sigma, Capiz, 24-27 April 2007
CCP Tanghalang N. Abelardo Lobby, 2-5 May 2007
Mauban, Quezon, 15-18 May 2007
Other Events
PHILIPPINE BOARD ON BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE’s (PBBY) NATIONAL CHILDREN’S BOOK DAY CELEBRATION
Program - Tanghalang N. Abelardo Lobby, 17 July 2007; Exhibit - Second Floor Hallway, 17-30 July 2007
The annual program and awarding ceremonies of the PBBY hosted by the CCP in celebration of the National Children’s Book Day. Works by the finalists and winning entries of the 2007 Alcala Prize (Illustrator’s Prize) will be featured in an exhibit.
Outreach Programs
KALINGA NG SINING
January to December 2007
Art for healing/arts education and cultural appreciation aimed at rebuilding capacity and confidence of children, youth and parents in poor communities.
Friday, February 9, 2007
Yan Ang Pinay! Resurrected
It's been ages since my Yan Ang Pinay! post. Work and work on the side lines kept me from posting the Pinay image and character in Philippine Children's Literature. The cover of the December 2006 issue of Star Teacher magazine inspired me to write again for the Yan Ang Pinay series which I started a year or two ago. This time around, I'm including successful Pinays in their field of discipline and advocacy. It has to be related to literacy and libraries though, after all, these are two of the many reasons why I keep SLIA.
For this YAP (Yan Ang Pinay) feature, I'm pleased to write about Helen Bautista. She is a retired teacher who has found a second career as Library Commissioner for the public library system of San Francisco, USA. In her visits in the different public libraries in the district, she witnessed the clamor for more books and greater development of libraries. Families are ardent readers. Parents demand that access to books and information are available from Monday to Sunday. Budget for their libraries have increased as government support is unending.
Bautista has been to Manila visiting libraries as well. She has learned of the initiatives of Sa Aklat Sisikat Foundation in training teachers and developing school libraries for a reading and literate nation. She lauds the foundations effort and hopes that the work and advocacy become an inspiration to others.
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
Caught Reading
Boys don't read? Think again.
Photos by Oyet Concepcion, AV Librarian Xavier Grade School
Sol by Agay Llanera
On March 20, 2007 at the Ayala Museum, Agay Llanera, KUTING Secretary, will launch her second book, Sol via CANVAS. Illustrations by Farley del Rosario.
Agay Llanera is a fellow KUTING and sits in the executive board as secretary. This is her second published book. Read the story and the details of the launch here.
With one book launch after the other, Philippine Children's Literature is indeed alive and well.
Friday, February 2, 2007
Monday, January 29, 2007
Crash Course Program for Librarians
I got this announcement from my inbox today.
Here is the description of the Crash Course Program:
1. The duration of the Crash Program: 8 hours a day, 6 days a week, or a total of 48 contact hours for one core subject equivalent to 3 units.
2. Methods of conducting the course: Lectures, review and practice
3. To be conducted by: UP ILS
4. Date of implementation to be announced later.
Ref .BFL Resolution No. 12, Series 2006
Here is the description of the Crash Course Program:
The Institute of Library and Information Science (ILIS) will hold a Crashed Program for non-passers of the Board Exam for Librarians and non-librarians working in the library with 18 units of Library Science taken before 1990 on the first week of February 2007 at 3rd Floor Gonzales Hall, UP Diliman, Quezon.
Transcript of Records (TOR), Certificate of Employment and Service Record and contact details should be submitted to the ILIS for evaluation as soon as possible to be included in the final list of participants. The participant may not have to attend all 6 sessions, as the ILIS will recommend the subject/s each participant will take so as to concentrate on the subject he/she is weak. Course fee is P1500 per week, wherein one subject will be covered each week. In addition, all requirements to be submitted to apply for the Board Exam for Librarians at the Philippine Regulation Commission (PRC) should be ready before the end of the course. ILIS will certify their attendance and completion of the Crash Program and endorse their application.
For more details, please contact Mrs. Josefina Cervas at (02) 921-8500 loc 2869/2870/2871 or email her at josefina.cervas@up.edu.ph or zorina.franco@up.edu.ph
PLAI Matters
The Philippine Librarians Association, Inc. has a new set of Board of Trustess. If you are a Filipino Librarian who is an active member of the profession, you'd read familiar and respected names from the profession. Below is the PLAI NCR Council members.
Congratulations to the Board and to the Council!
PLAI NATIONAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES, 2007-2008
EXECUTIVE BOARD
President -------------------- Susima Gonzales, NCR
Vice Pres. ------------------- Thelma Kim, CAR
Secretary -------------------- Shirley Nava, NCR
Treasurer--------------------- Zoraida Bartolome, Region 3
Asst. Treasurer------------- Fe Abelardo, NCR
Auditor ----------------------- Belen M. Vibar, NCR
PRO --------------------------- Marilou Tadlip, Region 7
TRUSTEES:
Myrna Acedera, Region 10
Rosemarie Ante, Region 5
Salvacion Arlante, NCR
Jane Bebeng, Region 4
Marianita Dablio, ARMM
Hinnie Gonzales, Region 6
Rebecca Napiere, Region 8
Rosario Ruiz, Region 12
Illuminada Yap. Region 11
PLAI-NCR COUNCIL, 2007
Chairman ------------- Lilia F. Echiverri
Vice Chairman ------ Belen M. Vibar
Secretary -------------- Jocelyn Ladlad
Treasurer -------------- Fe Abelardo
PRO --------------------- Nora Claravall
Directors: -------------- Salvacion Arlante
Rodolfo Tarlit
Congratulations to the Board and to the Council!
PLAI NATIONAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES, 2007-2008
EXECUTIVE BOARD
President -------------------- Susima Gonzales, NCR
Vice Pres. ------------------- Thelma Kim, CAR
Secretary -------------------- Shirley Nava, NCR
Treasurer--------------------- Zoraida Bartolome, Region 3
Asst. Treasurer------------- Fe Abelardo, NCR
Auditor ----------------------- Belen M. Vibar, NCR
PRO --------------------------- Marilou Tadlip, Region 7
TRUSTEES:
Myrna Acedera, Region 10
Rosemarie Ante, Region 5
Salvacion Arlante, NCR
Jane Bebeng, Region 4
Marianita Dablio, ARMM
Hinnie Gonzales, Region 6
Rebecca Napiere, Region 8
Rosario Ruiz, Region 12
Illuminada Yap. Region 11
PLAI-NCR COUNCIL, 2007
Chairman ------------- Lilia F. Echiverri
Vice Chairman ------ Belen M. Vibar
Secretary -------------- Jocelyn Ladlad
Treasurer -------------- Fe Abelardo
PRO --------------------- Nora Claravall
Directors: -------------- Salvacion Arlante
Rodolfo Tarlit
Friday, January 26, 2007
New Year! New Books!
New books always get kids excited. By keeping library shelves stocked with new acquisitions and book display carts brimming with new titles, the bars in library circulation statistics will always look like the Makati skyline. School librarians are thrilled to see kids reading. To know that they frequently borrow and read from the library is an assurance that the school library budget is put to good use.
The GS LRC, in its continued effort to promote a genuine love for books and reading, provides the community with brief reviews of good reads to take home and enjoy. Note that the books included in this review can also be relished by an adult reader. And if the grown up takes great pleasure at reading the children’s book, then it has met the bar of a well written literature for children. Children’s literature after all, mirrors the stories of our childhood.
Funke-y Reads!
When J.K. Rowling allowed Harry Potter to step out of her imagination and into the pages of a book, one by one, fantasy writers followed her wake. Classics of this genre like The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and the Narnia Chronicles, to name a few, have gained popularity too. Suddenly, fantasy is in and it has slowly and solidly built a great following among young readers age 8 to 18.
Two writers have emerged from the world of fey to regale readers, young and old, with stories of the fantastic. Cornelia Funke, a German and Jonathan Stroud, a British, have both published novels for kids and young adults that merged fantasy and reality into one stream lined story frame. Their approach is reminiscent of Roald Dahl, however, their styles at crafting fantasy stories differ very much from each other and to Dahl’s magic realism.
Funke made a splash in the children’s literature circle upon publication and translation to the English of The Thief Lord. A band of orphaned street children prowling the streets and water ways of Venice is led by a young thief named Scipio. The young rascal hides behind a mask to conceal his face as well as his true identity. The vagabonds escape the police and the hoodlums of the streets but not the diligence of a private investigator and the compassion of a benefactor. In the end, every one turns out happy, even the mean Barbarossa who was magically reduced and restored back to youth.
The book’s message that all children, no matter what they are or who they are must be accepted and looked after does not quite agree with older readers. Critics of the book complain about the saccharine turn of events. But, parents, teachers and professionals working with and for children can identify with this conviction. There are splendid treasures of this world and one of the greatest is childhood. Funke made sure that child readers seize the opportunity to cherish it and for adult readers, she gave the responsibility to nurture and nourish it.
After The Thief Lord, she came back with Ink Heart, Dragon Rider and Ink Spell, the sequel to Ink Heart. All novels bespeak of the child hero and the heroic image that comes with it.
Stroud also has a strong belief in the child hero. In his The Bartimaeus Trilogy, he successfully conjured Harry Potter’s antithesis. Rowling’s
Potter has Dumbledore and friends. Stroud’s Nathaniel has Bartimaeus, a thousand year old djinn whose endearing qualities are his sense of humor and knowledge of history. Take him away and Nathaniel is but a snotty, conceited, arrogant brat. He is selfish and apathetic. He is ambitious and would do anything to reach his goals. It is not until the last book that Nathaniel was able to redeem himself. In the process, he saved his friends, London and the world.
Reading all three books is like a roller coaster ride to ancient history and to an altered London with a parliament littered with magicians, good and bad. This is Nathaniel’s world, one where he is often challenged to make the decision on how to use his talents of magic. Children, particularly young adults contend with the same dilemma. While adults guide and protect them as much, like Nathaniel, they will find ways to save themselves and learn what life is really all about.
After The Thief Lord, she came back with Ink Heart, Dragon Rider and Ink Spell, the sequel to Ink Heart. All novels bespeak of the child hero and the heroic image that comes with it.
It’s Raining Series!
Primary readers find enjoyment with books that come in series. The Hardy Boys has established quite a reputation though new stories in series form are being published every year. These are The Magic Tree House, Spiderwick Chronicles, Geronimo Stilton, Captain Underpants and Series of Unfortunate Events to name a few. Such titles appeal more to the child reader of this day and age. Stories in the series are fast paced, adventure packed, amusing, fun and empowering.
The Deltora Quest Series tells of a kingdom invaded by a malevolent Dark Lord. Redemption is seven to ten years in the making. It rests on the hands of two teenagers, Leif and Jasmine, to face adversaries of the Lord’s making and theirs too. Accompanied by Barda, warrior disguised as the village idiot, they scour the Land of Deltora for the seven missing gems of a magical belt. Once restored, peace will rule the land.
The series comes in eight books. Readers who are familiar with the movie version of the The Lord of the Rings can easily make connections that will lead to a better appreciation of the books.
Aside from the fantasy genre, concept books have taken the route to series land. The Cat in the Hat Library is an example. The GS LRC currently has four titles; Oh say, can you say Di-no-saur?, Fine Feathered Friends, Oh say can you seed?, On beyond Bugs.
Inspired by the Dr. Seuss Classic, The Cat in the Hat Library carries the same narrative style and playful illustrations. This time around, writers of the series present facts and information of interest to readers age 5-8. The characters are resurrected back to life with the intrepid Cat playing the role of teacher to the siblings. What a complete turn around from Dr. Seuss’s version! It could be that the Cat has stashed away his penchant for mischief even for a while.
The market is full of books for kids and young adults to taste and devour. Some are candy; many are filling and a few can be chewed on like gum. To offer a guided reading of the good ones that are digestible satiates the reading appetite. With these recommended reads, the GS LRC hopes to see more kids reading and more adults reading for them and with them too.
The GS LRC, in its continued effort to promote a genuine love for books and reading, provides the community with brief reviews of good reads to take home and enjoy. Note that the books included in this review can also be relished by an adult reader. And if the grown up takes great pleasure at reading the children’s book, then it has met the bar of a well written literature for children. Children’s literature after all, mirrors the stories of our childhood.
Funke-y Reads!
When J.K. Rowling allowed Harry Potter to step out of her imagination and into the pages of a book, one by one, fantasy writers followed her wake. Classics of this genre like The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and the Narnia Chronicles, to name a few, have gained popularity too. Suddenly, fantasy is in and it has slowly and solidly built a great following among young readers age 8 to 18.
Two writers have emerged from the world of fey to regale readers, young and old, with stories of the fantastic. Cornelia Funke, a German and Jonathan Stroud, a British, have both published novels for kids and young adults that merged fantasy and reality into one stream lined story frame. Their approach is reminiscent of Roald Dahl, however, their styles at crafting fantasy stories differ very much from each other and to Dahl’s magic realism.
Funke made a splash in the children’s literature circle upon publication and translation to the English of The Thief Lord. A band of orphaned street children prowling the streets and water ways of Venice is led by a young thief named Scipio. The young rascal hides behind a mask to conceal his face as well as his true identity. The vagabonds escape the police and the hoodlums of the streets but not the diligence of a private investigator and the compassion of a benefactor. In the end, every one turns out happy, even the mean Barbarossa who was magically reduced and restored back to youth.The book’s message that all children, no matter what they are or who they are must be accepted and looked after does not quite agree with older readers. Critics of the book complain about the saccharine turn of events. But, parents, teachers and professionals working with and for children can identify with this conviction. There are splendid treasures of this world and one of the greatest is childhood. Funke made sure that child readers seize the opportunity to cherish it and for adult readers, she gave the responsibility to nurture and nourish it.
After The Thief Lord, she came back with Ink Heart, Dragon Rider and Ink Spell, the sequel to Ink Heart. All novels bespeak of the child hero and the heroic image that comes with it. Stroud also has a strong belief in the child hero. In his The Bartimaeus Trilogy, he successfully conjured Harry Potter’s antithesis. Rowling’s
Potter has Dumbledore and friends. Stroud’s Nathaniel has Bartimaeus, a thousand year old djinn whose endearing qualities are his sense of humor and knowledge of history. Take him away and Nathaniel is but a snotty, conceited, arrogant brat. He is selfish and apathetic. He is ambitious and would do anything to reach his goals. It is not until the last book that Nathaniel was able to redeem himself. In the process, he saved his friends, London and the world.
Reading all three books is like a roller coaster ride to ancient history and to an altered London with a parliament littered with magicians, good and bad. This is Nathaniel’s world, one where he is often challenged to make the decision on how to use his talents of magic. Children, particularly young adults contend with the same dilemma. While adults guide and protect them as much, like Nathaniel, they will find ways to save themselves and learn what life is really all about.
After The Thief Lord, she came back with Ink Heart, Dragon Rider and Ink Spell, the sequel to Ink Heart. All novels bespeak of the child hero and the heroic image that comes with it. It’s Raining Series!
Primary readers find enjoyment with books that come in series. The Hardy Boys has established quite a reputation though new stories in series form are being published every year. These are The Magic Tree House, Spiderwick Chronicles, Geronimo Stilton, Captain Underpants and Series of Unfortunate Events to name a few. Such titles appeal more to the child reader of this day and age. Stories in the series are fast paced, adventure packed, amusing, fun and empowering.
The Deltora Quest Series tells of a kingdom invaded by a malevolent Dark Lord. Redemption is seven to ten years in the making. It rests on the hands of two teenagers, Leif and Jasmine, to face adversaries of the Lord’s making and theirs too. Accompanied by Barda, warrior disguised as the village idiot, they scour the Land of Deltora for the seven missing gems of a magical belt. Once restored, peace will rule the land.
The series comes in eight books. Readers who are familiar with the movie version of the The Lord of the Rings can easily make connections that will lead to a better appreciation of the books.
Aside from the fantasy genre, concept books have taken the route to series land. The Cat in the Hat Library is an example. The GS LRC currently has four titles; Oh say, can you say Di-no-saur?, Fine Feathered Friends, Oh say can you seed?, On beyond Bugs.Inspired by the Dr. Seuss Classic, The Cat in the Hat Library carries the same narrative style and playful illustrations. This time around, writers of the series present facts and information of interest to readers age 5-8. The characters are resurrected back to life with the intrepid Cat playing the role of teacher to the siblings. What a complete turn around from Dr. Seuss’s version! It could be that the Cat has stashed away his penchant for mischief even for a while.
The market is full of books for kids and young adults to taste and devour. Some are candy; many are filling and a few can be chewed on like gum. To offer a guided reading of the good ones that are digestible satiates the reading appetite. With these recommended reads, the GS LRC hopes to see more kids reading and more adults reading for them and with them too.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Fun Librarian
Taken last Christmas by a colleague, I posed for the camera Dream Girls style. The wig was my best accessory last Christmas Party in school.
Everyone thought I was up for a performance. They were disappointed. I just wanted to be fun, and to have fun at my own expense that day. It's been a while sine I let my guard down. Administrative work can be very stressful. My 2006 was tough and tremulous besides. For all the blunders and bloopers committed last year, I needed to humor myself. A lot of people got the joke. Good for them.
As for the school administrators, they were lenient enough to allow me this display of humor. Though I know for a fact that my school director found the "act" so circus-like, he did give me credit for my ability to laugh at myself. That's one of the many reasons why I admire and respect the Jesuits so much.
Thanks to Baby Alfonso for lending me the afro wig. To Ria Marifosque too, for the fab photo.
Everyone thought I was up for a performance. They were disappointed. I just wanted to be fun, and to have fun at my own expense that day. It's been a while sine I let my guard down. Administrative work can be very stressful. My 2006 was tough and tremulous besides. For all the blunders and bloopers committed last year, I needed to humor myself. A lot of people got the joke. Good for them.
As for the school administrators, they were lenient enough to allow me this display of humor. Though I know for a fact that my school director found the "act" so circus-like, he did give me credit for my ability to laugh at myself. That's one of the many reasons why I admire and respect the Jesuits so much.
Thanks to Baby Alfonso for lending me the afro wig. To Ria Marifosque too, for the fab photo.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Updates on Philippine Children's Literature
Every year, new books for children are being published. Most are launched during the National Children's Book Day in July. This early, I got several news on a book launch, a new Young Adult book, a Filipino Artist winning the Noma Concours and a Children's Literature workshop. Details are as follows -
Book Launch
TAHANAN LAUNCHES 3 GREEK MYTHS AS BILINGUAL FLIPBOOKS
The Trojan Horse. Odysseus and the Cyclops. Melampus and the Snakes.
These three well-loved classics mined from the ancient treasure trove
of Greek mythology come alive as splendid bilingual flipbooks just out
from Tahanan Books for Young Readers. The three books—retold by Peggy
Manuel, vibrantly illustrated by Rita Badilla-Gudiño, and translated
into Filipino by Rene O. Villanueva—will be launched on Monday,
February 5th at Powerbooks (Greenbelt 4) from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.
With this series Tahanan introduces an innovative flipbook
format designed to showcase a story in two languages. The first half
of each 32-page picture book is a dedicated English edition, the last
half is flipped upside-down and bears the Filipino edition. Each
center spread features trivia gleaned from Greek mythology.
Tahanan's full-color flipbooks are available singly (P225) and
as a set (P675) in all major bookstores. For more information, please
contact Frances Ong at 818-2482 or send an email to
marketing@tahananbooks.com.
New Young Adult Book
KUTING's first anthology of short fiction for Young Adults (age 13 - 19). Available at the UP Press Bookstore in Balay Kalinaw, UP Diliman. Edited by Carla Pacis(English) & Eugene Evasco (Filipino). Cover design by May Tobias-Papa.
Noma Concours
Artist and Children's Book Writer, Jomike Tejido, is runner up winner in the Noma Concours
Children's Literature Workshop
The Tamaraw Writeshop for Children's Literature calls for applications to a 12-day writing fellowship to its second national writeshop to be held in Iloilo City.
As its target tradition, the writeshop tours around the country as part of its objective of enrichment of regional cultures and literatures. Thus, this year, the writeshop goes to Iloilo with three fellowships open for Hiligaynon or Kiniray-a languages.
Fifteen fellowships are open nationwide. Applicants may send entries in English, Filipino, or Hiligaynon. Entries written in Hiligaynon/Kiniray- a must bear Filipino or English translation.
Applicants must submit the following:
(1) two unpublished short stories for children;
(2) one copy of each story plus digital file (12-point, Times-New-Roman font, double spaced in 8.5x11 bond paper with one inch margin all sides); (
3) cover letter address to the writeshop director;
(4) two 2x2 recent colored photo; and
(5) applicant's bionote with complete contact information.
The fellows will undergo series of lectures and writing sessions based on the syllabus designed by their respective mentors. The two-week activity will primarily work on the objective of finishing a writing project which is the main target output. A first national conference on Philippine children̢۪s literature will also be held side by side the writeshop. Deadline for submission is February 15, 2007. The same is the postmark date for entries that will be sent through mail. Email submissions are accepted with the entry and necessary documents as attached files wynion@gmail. com; tamaraw-writeshop@ yahoo.com
Book Launch
TAHANAN LAUNCHES 3 GREEK MYTHS AS BILINGUAL FLIPBOOKS
The Trojan Horse. Odysseus and the Cyclops. Melampus and the Snakes.
These three well-loved classics mined from the ancient treasure trove
of Greek mythology come alive as splendid bilingual flipbooks just out
from Tahanan Books for Young Readers. The three books—retold by Peggy
Manuel, vibrantly illustrated by Rita Badilla-Gudiño, and translated
into Filipino by Rene O. Villanueva—will be launched on Monday,
February 5th at Powerbooks (Greenbelt 4) from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.
With this series Tahanan introduces an innovative flipbook
format designed to showcase a story in two languages. The first half
of each 32-page picture book is a dedicated English edition, the last
half is flipped upside-down and bears the Filipino edition. Each
center spread features trivia gleaned from Greek mythology.
Tahanan's full-color flipbooks are available singly (P225) and
as a set (P675) in all major bookstores. For more information, please
contact Frances Ong at 818-2482 or send an email to
marketing@tahananbooks.com.
New Young Adult Book
KUTING's first anthology of short fiction for Young Adults (age 13 - 19). Available at the UP Press Bookstore in Balay Kalinaw, UP Diliman. Edited by Carla Pacis(English) & Eugene Evasco (Filipino). Cover design by May Tobias-Papa.
Noma Concours
Artist and Children's Book Writer, Jomike Tejido, is runner up winner in the Noma Concours
Children's Literature Workshop
The Tamaraw Writeshop for Children's Literature calls for applications to a 12-day writing fellowship to its second national writeshop to be held in Iloilo City.
As its target tradition, the writeshop tours around the country as part of its objective of enrichment of regional cultures and literatures. Thus, this year, the writeshop goes to Iloilo with three fellowships open for Hiligaynon or Kiniray-a languages.
Fifteen fellowships are open nationwide. Applicants may send entries in English, Filipino, or Hiligaynon. Entries written in Hiligaynon/Kiniray- a must bear Filipino or English translation.
Applicants must submit the following:
(1) two unpublished short stories for children;
(2) one copy of each story plus digital file (12-point, Times-New-Roman font, double spaced in 8.5x11 bond paper with one inch margin all sides); (
3) cover letter address to the writeshop director;
(4) two 2x2 recent colored photo; and
(5) applicant's bionote with complete contact information.
The fellows will undergo series of lectures and writing sessions based on the syllabus designed by their respective mentors. The two-week activity will primarily work on the objective of finishing a writing project which is the main target output. A first national conference on Philippine children̢۪s literature will also be held side by side the writeshop. Deadline for submission is February 15, 2007. The same is the postmark date for entries that will be sent through mail. Email submissions are accepted with the entry and necessary documents as attached files wynion@gmail. com; tamaraw-writeshop@ yahoo.com
Migrating
I am not leaving the country for greener pastures. Not now. Not yet. I have, however, migrated from the Old Blogger to the New Blogger. What is so special about it? Let's just say that technology, like everything else in life, changes. My response to change, as far as my blogs are concerned, is to go with the flow and see how things will pick up from there.
I am enjoying the New Blogger, mind you.
For one, I found the new Blogger easier to navigate. The interface is smoother and it allows a blogger to label each posts. While most blogger I know have switched or upgraded, I found some interesting blogs by Filipino Librarians around blogosphere.
I have mentioned about PLAI STRLC's blog sometime last year and it gave me a sense of good things to come in terms of blogging and Philippine Librarianship. Today, I visited the blog of PLAI Cagayan Valley Region . I am particularly pleased because, I trace my roots in Catagaman, Tuguegarao. It would be interesting to visit and touch base with librarians there.
It gives me more reason to plan a trip back home.
I am enjoying the New Blogger, mind you.
For one, I found the new Blogger easier to navigate. The interface is smoother and it allows a blogger to label each posts. While most blogger I know have switched or upgraded, I found some interesting blogs by Filipino Librarians around blogosphere.
I have mentioned about PLAI STRLC's blog sometime last year and it gave me a sense of good things to come in terms of blogging and Philippine Librarianship. Today, I visited the blog of PLAI Cagayan Valley Region . I am particularly pleased because, I trace my roots in Catagaman, Tuguegarao. It would be interesting to visit and touch base with librarians there.
It gives me more reason to plan a trip back home.
Friday, January 12, 2007
Big 6 Lesson for Grade 4
This week has been a flurry of library instruction lesson observations, staff reporting and initial evaluation, brainstorming for Big 6 lessons, justification for books that the library will acquire and submission of statistical reports. Each is as interesting as an episode in a Filipino or Korean telenovela. I do intend to blog about it since few is written or talked about regarding (Philippine)school library management in the Internet. Only I'll do it one at a time because work never cease to subside at this time of the year.
For starters, allow me to share with you a PowerPoint on the Big 6 lesson made by Mrs. Jane Diaz, GS Librarian for grade 3 and 4.
For starters, allow me to share with you a PowerPoint on the Big 6 lesson made by Mrs. Jane Diaz, GS Librarian for grade 3 and 4.
Thursday, January 4, 2007
Developing a Children's Library
Here is the slide presentation of my seminar-workshop for PBBY Workshop series. Held last November 25, 2006 at Powerbooks Greenbelt, I was fortunate to have 25 participants from private and public school libaries.
This morning, Ani Almario, PBBY Secretariat, sent me the evaluation of the workshop. It helped me determine what to improve and remove next time I do a similar seminar-workshop. What struck me was the suggestion that I write a book on school library management.
This morning, Ani Almario, PBBY Secretariat, sent me the evaluation of the workshop. It helped me determine what to improve and remove next time I do a similar seminar-workshop. What struck me was the suggestion that I write a book on school library management.
Tuesday, January 2, 2007
2006 In Retrospect
Happy New Year to you all! My apologies for not informing you of my where abouts last holiday season. Blogger is going bonkers for reasons I can't tell. I am a mere mortal blogger and I have not reached super blogger status. Anyways, I'm back blogging! This is my first post for 2007 and like Filipino Librarian, I'm posting in retrospect the "first posts" this blog had in 2006 with the first sentence and/or paragraph for each. Note that I'm starting with the most recent and that, I'm doing this on the 2nd of January and not the 1st. But the slight changes (in the meme) can be forgiven, I'm sure.
Looking back, it provides me with a good view of my blogging life last year. In general, it is giving me a a bigger perspective of how I have been as a librarian in 2006.
December: Turtle's Tale by Gerald Brown
I was with Gerald Brown, Honorary Ambassador of IASL, in the National Book Week Fellowship Night. The following day, we met again to discuss his next trip to Manila sometime next year. Apparently, Gerald, has touched base with PATLS for a conference addressing library education in the Philippines. Plans are still tentative and everything else is still floating on air but, given the time and the resources, it may just be possible.
November: Creating Classroom Libraries
Below is the PowerPoint presentation of my workshop session for the Petron Programang Kaakbay Conference. Delivered on October 28, 2006, I shared with public school teachers the importance and rationale of setting classroom libraries.
October: Children's Art Exhibit of Hope
From Ms. Nina Lim-Yuson of the Museo Pambata
*All Together in Dignity (ATD) Fourth World Philippines*, an international non-government organization, invites you to view an Art Exhibit of Hope to commemorate October 17, the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty.
September:NCBD, Book Awards Season & The Manila Intl. Book Fair 2006
I would like to think that the campaign-for-a-reading-culture season begins in July. With the advent of National Children's Book Day, moving on to Buwan ng Wika and ending with the Manila International Book Fair. Busy months for all concerned with books, reading, publishing, writing, teaching and learning.
August: Librarians Can Challenge the Administration
I owe it to my readers (though few and selected) to tell them more about last July's NCBD, however, management and administrative matters drive me away from polishing the article. So, before you start thinking where I've been the past few days, I asure you that I'm still blogging and I'm still sane. Allow me to veer a little far away from NCBD to share with you a white paper, also known as a position paper I wrote on the issue of centralizing the library's AV services (and programs) with the Information Technology Services.
July:Salaysayan 2006 Eliminations
This picture was taken right after the Filipino Division of the Salaysayan Contest at the National Library last July 1, 2006. There were 31 contestants! A marathon! Ms. Dolly Soriano and I were judges and though it was a big contingent, the experience of seeing, hearing and engaging with 31 storytellers, all hoping to be in the Top 8 final list was spectacular.
June:Helping Libraries
I have been interviewed recently by AHON, a foundation that will help libraries in support of literacy development. Headed in collaboration by Filway Marketing and Harvey Keh, the brainchild behind Pathways to Education, it shall be holding training sessions for library personnel in the public school library system. Last I heard about AHON, it is pooling its resources to donate boook sto spublic school libraries
May:Blogs As Teaching Tools
This paper will discuss the characteristics of blogs that make it possible for teachers to use it in teaching and instruction. Techniques and strategies on how blogs can enhance the teaching and learning experience will also be identified, as well as, issues and limitations of its utility in the classroom setting. Examples of blogs used for educational and instructional purposes will be presented to give participants an idea on how it can be done.
April:2nd iBlog Philippine Blogging Summit
Go to iBlog 2 , the Philippines’ 2nd Blogging Summit. Attendance is FREE. Register now to save your seat!
March:Perceptions, Philosophy & Paradigms
As a take off from my post last February 27, 2006, I wrote about school libraries falling under Student Services or the Academic Program. I find it odd when school libraries affirm their role as the hub of the school and to articulate their goals, objectives and functions as supporting and supplementing the curriculum when all the while falling under Student Services. It does not sound as auxiliary nor ancillary services to me. This gives me the impression that the school administration perceives the school library quite differently the way the school librarian does.
February:Updates On Information Literacy in the SEA
Some news and insights on the recent Information Literacy workshop I attended last January 30-31, 2006 at the Ateneo de Manila University.
January:BEST of SLIA 2005
I've categorized the posts and entries I wrote last year in five divisions. These are Philippine Librarianship, Technology and IT Integration, Reading & Literacy Advocay, Events & Book Reviews and Information Literacy. The entries very well describe the route that this blog has taken and what will its direction be in 2006. Honestly, I have not seriously thought about it yet. Although a redesign is in the works, I still have to evaluate my content.
Looking back, it provides me with a good view of my blogging life last year. In general, it is giving me a a bigger perspective of how I have been as a librarian in 2006.
December: Turtle's Tale by Gerald Brown
I was with Gerald Brown, Honorary Ambassador of IASL, in the National Book Week Fellowship Night. The following day, we met again to discuss his next trip to Manila sometime next year. Apparently, Gerald, has touched base with PATLS for a conference addressing library education in the Philippines. Plans are still tentative and everything else is still floating on air but, given the time and the resources, it may just be possible.
November: Creating Classroom Libraries
Below is the PowerPoint presentation of my workshop session for the Petron Programang Kaakbay Conference. Delivered on October 28, 2006, I shared with public school teachers the importance and rationale of setting classroom libraries.
October: Children's Art Exhibit of Hope
From Ms. Nina Lim-Yuson of the Museo Pambata
*All Together in Dignity (ATD) Fourth World Philippines*, an international non-government organization, invites you to view an Art Exhibit of Hope to commemorate October 17, the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty.
September:NCBD, Book Awards Season & The Manila Intl. Book Fair 2006
I would like to think that the campaign-for-a-reading-culture season begins in July. With the advent of National Children's Book Day, moving on to Buwan ng Wika and ending with the Manila International Book Fair. Busy months for all concerned with books, reading, publishing, writing, teaching and learning.
August: Librarians Can Challenge the Administration
I owe it to my readers (though few and selected) to tell them more about last July's NCBD, however, management and administrative matters drive me away from polishing the article. So, before you start thinking where I've been the past few days, I asure you that I'm still blogging and I'm still sane. Allow me to veer a little far away from NCBD to share with you a white paper, also known as a position paper I wrote on the issue of centralizing the library's AV services (and programs) with the Information Technology Services.
July:Salaysayan 2006 Eliminations
This picture was taken right after the Filipino Division of the Salaysayan Contest at the National Library last July 1, 2006. There were 31 contestants! A marathon! Ms. Dolly Soriano and I were judges and though it was a big contingent, the experience of seeing, hearing and engaging with 31 storytellers, all hoping to be in the Top 8 final list was spectacular.
June:Helping Libraries
I have been interviewed recently by AHON, a foundation that will help libraries in support of literacy development. Headed in collaboration by Filway Marketing and Harvey Keh, the brainchild behind Pathways to Education, it shall be holding training sessions for library personnel in the public school library system. Last I heard about AHON, it is pooling its resources to donate boook sto spublic school libraries
May:Blogs As Teaching Tools
This paper will discuss the characteristics of blogs that make it possible for teachers to use it in teaching and instruction. Techniques and strategies on how blogs can enhance the teaching and learning experience will also be identified, as well as, issues and limitations of its utility in the classroom setting. Examples of blogs used for educational and instructional purposes will be presented to give participants an idea on how it can be done.
April:2nd iBlog Philippine Blogging Summit
Go to iBlog 2 , the Philippines’ 2nd Blogging Summit. Attendance is FREE. Register now to save your seat!
March:Perceptions, Philosophy & Paradigms
As a take off from my post last February 27, 2006, I wrote about school libraries falling under Student Services or the Academic Program. I find it odd when school libraries affirm their role as the hub of the school and to articulate their goals, objectives and functions as supporting and supplementing the curriculum when all the while falling under Student Services. It does not sound as auxiliary nor ancillary services to me. This gives me the impression that the school administration perceives the school library quite differently the way the school librarian does.
February:Updates On Information Literacy in the SEA
Some news and insights on the recent Information Literacy workshop I attended last January 30-31, 2006 at the Ateneo de Manila University.
January:BEST of SLIA 2005
I've categorized the posts and entries I wrote last year in five divisions. These are Philippine Librarianship, Technology and IT Integration, Reading & Literacy Advocay, Events & Book Reviews and Information Literacy. The entries very well describe the route that this blog has taken and what will its direction be in 2006. Honestly, I have not seriously thought about it yet. Although a redesign is in the works, I still have to evaluate my content.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Gawad Kabataan Para sa Panitikan
Pinoy children will finally have their voices heard regarding the books they love to read. Read Or Die's Gawad Kabataan Para sa Panitikan website is up and running. The organizers are inviting schools, libraries, writers and publishers to join and support the initiative.
Below is a brief description of what it is all about. For more information, visit the website here.
I'm really thrilled with this project and as KUTING president, I'm cooking up some strategies to have the organization involved in it. Though I can not help but think if school librarians would find this worth their time. I have emailed our English coordinator and I'm hoping it's one project where we can collaborate. Now this is petty, but take note that libraries are encouraged to get involved and not the librarians who run the programs and services for the libraries.
Below is a brief description of what it is all about. For more information, visit the website here.
About the Gawad Kabataan
The concept behind the awards is somewhat similar to the Red House Children's Book Awards. We will be networking with children's book groups all over the country, give them free or discounted copies of nominated books along with review sheets, and, based on reader response, come up with a list of favorite and recommended books, after which a final round of voting will determine overall winners. The readers themselves will therefore be choosing their writers and their books.
I'm really thrilled with this project and as KUTING president, I'm cooking up some strategies to have the organization involved in it. Though I can not help but think if school librarians would find this worth their time. I have emailed our English coordinator and I'm hoping it's one project where we can collaborate. Now this is petty, but take note that libraries are encouraged to get involved and not the librarians who run the programs and services for the libraries.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Pinoy Readers Choice Award
Read or Die, a book club for the Reading Pinoy is host to the first Pinoy Readers Choice Award. Organizers have short listed best books for Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry and Komiks. So they claim that a special category for Young Adult/Children's Literature will soon be given but, when?
Read more here .
Read more here .
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Law of the Seeds
Gerald Brown of IASL shared this moving parable via email. I feel the compulsion to pass it on to my staff and colleagues.
Isn't it that we have so many wants and needs for the improvement of our library services and programs but we can't have them all? We are shaken by changes either internal or external that challenge our views of the profession. This parable is a perfect story to strengthen our resolve to face changes and challenges in the profession and in life, in general. Happy reading!
Isn't it that we have so many wants and needs for the improvement of our library services and programs but we can't have them all? We are shaken by changes either internal or external that challenge our views of the profession. This parable is a perfect story to strengthen our resolve to face changes and challenges in the profession and in life, in general. Happy reading!
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Learning Extended
Many still perceive the library merely as a warehouse of books, equipment and resources. Such perception impedes the potential of libraries as viable venues of learning. The books, resources, equipment and facilities it holds are sources of ideas and information. It is in the hands of a dynamic library staff where the creation of new ideas and the constructs of new knowledge are made possible. Through programs and services geared towards the full utility of these resources by students and teachers, school libraries are centers that build a learning community.
Interestingly, “learning community” does not only refer to the intellect. It also pertains to the active involvement of students, teachers and members of the school population in helping the school library grow and develop. In the past quarter, the GS LRC is a living witness to this kind of support extended by people from the Xavier community.
ART SERVICE CLUB. Mr. Jonah Valenzuela of the GS MAC rounded up his boys for a collaborative project with LRC Service Club members and its moderator, Mrs. Chit Olivares. Together, they facilitated a poster-making activity that promoted books and reading; use of one’s talent and skill in drawing; and the ability to work cooperatively with another. The students’ output, colorful posters for the primary students to see, provide visual stimulus to encourage continued use of the library.
Aside from the posters, members of the Art Service Club made book covers for the ones that are worn out. Move over, Silvertongue. There are new “book doctors” in town. Through this activity, the students’ talents and skills were put into good use. Good books that needed repair and covering were salvaged from the weeding box. These were given new covers, simple drawings on oslo paper but most are neatly and colorfully done. Such an activity puts value on books as important technological tools for learning. Likewise, it fosters a sense of community and a willingness to be of service.
BOOK DONATION. Are you familiar with the saying, “Too many books, so little time (to read)?” For Scott Lee-Chua of Gr. 2 A-St. Sebastian, he has all the time to read good books. When he is done reading them or has outgrown them, he donates them to a library.
His mom, Queena, does the sorting of books for donations. When Scott learned that ICA and Ateneo were the regular recipients of their donations, he asked his mom, “Why not my school, Xavier School?” Out of the 416 volumes, around 300 were added to the GS LRC’s growing collection. The rest were given to the Jesuit Mission since they are supporting libraries in the provinces.
Inspired by parents who also read, Scott’s donations reflect a varied and diverse reading interest. Reading has taken Scott into many lands and places. He has been to different worlds, real and imagined. He hopes that others can derive the same delightful experience that reading has afforded him. By donating books, this young reading advocate has taken the first step towards that dream.
GUEST ALUMNUS. Last Thursday, December 7, 2006, grade school students who frequent the GS LRC at lunchtime were treated to an engaging visit from an alumnus. Mr. Joel Chua (’95), comic book creator, illustrator and graphic designer, regaled Xaverians with his artistic adventures.
He presented the process involved in book illustration; shared how computers help him design and illustrate books and graphic novels; showed his work and current portfolio; and drew on the spot caricatures. His audience was filled with wonder. But what really impressed his young and eager audience was his old grade school HSCN filled with drawings and sketches – an early attempt at honing his craft. This memento from his past was enough inspiration for those who dream of becoming an artist someday. As for the ones who were merely interested to meet an artist and illustrator that day, Mr. Chua became a role model to them. His focus, determination and knowledge of one’s self are defining qualities to be excellent and successful in a chosen craft or trade. In Xavier School lingo, it is called magis.
Mr. Chua was grateful for the opportunity to go back and give back a little something to Xavier School. If given another chance, he is open to the possibility to teach digital drawing to students. Visit his website at http://joelchua.com.
Students helping and reaching out. A young reader who shared with others his enthusiasm for books and reading. A visiting alumnus living out the spirit of magis. These are but a few of the many ways the school library can enrich and enhance the academic and formation programs of the school. No more of the warehouse and student services mentality for libraries. The GS LRC is an extension of the classroom.
Interestingly, “learning community” does not only refer to the intellect. It also pertains to the active involvement of students, teachers and members of the school population in helping the school library grow and develop. In the past quarter, the GS LRC is a living witness to this kind of support extended by people from the Xavier community.
ART SERVICE CLUB. Mr. Jonah Valenzuela of the GS MAC rounded up his boys for a collaborative project with LRC Service Club members and its moderator, Mrs. Chit Olivares. Together, they facilitated a poster-making activity that promoted books and reading; use of one’s talent and skill in drawing; and the ability to work cooperatively with another. The students’ output, colorful posters for the primary students to see, provide visual stimulus to encourage continued use of the library.
Aside from the posters, members of the Art Service Club made book covers for the ones that are worn out. Move over, Silvertongue. There are new “book doctors” in town. Through this activity, the students’ talents and skills were put into good use. Good books that needed repair and covering were salvaged from the weeding box. These were given new covers, simple drawings on oslo paper but most are neatly and colorfully done. Such an activity puts value on books as important technological tools for learning. Likewise, it fosters a sense of community and a willingness to be of service.
BOOK DONATION. Are you familiar with the saying, “Too many books, so little time (to read)?” For Scott Lee-Chua of Gr. 2 A-St. Sebastian, he has all the time to read good books. When he is done reading them or has outgrown them, he donates them to a library.
His mom, Queena, does the sorting of books for donations. When Scott learned that ICA and Ateneo were the regular recipients of their donations, he asked his mom, “Why not my school, Xavier School?” Out of the 416 volumes, around 300 were added to the GS LRC’s growing collection. The rest were given to the Jesuit Mission since they are supporting libraries in the provinces.
Inspired by parents who also read, Scott’s donations reflect a varied and diverse reading interest. Reading has taken Scott into many lands and places. He has been to different worlds, real and imagined. He hopes that others can derive the same delightful experience that reading has afforded him. By donating books, this young reading advocate has taken the first step towards that dream.
GUEST ALUMNUS. Last Thursday, December 7, 2006, grade school students who frequent the GS LRC at lunchtime were treated to an engaging visit from an alumnus. Mr. Joel Chua (’95), comic book creator, illustrator and graphic designer, regaled Xaverians with his artistic adventures.
He presented the process involved in book illustration; shared how computers help him design and illustrate books and graphic novels; showed his work and current portfolio; and drew on the spot caricatures. His audience was filled with wonder. But what really impressed his young and eager audience was his old grade school HSCN filled with drawings and sketches – an early attempt at honing his craft. This memento from his past was enough inspiration for those who dream of becoming an artist someday. As for the ones who were merely interested to meet an artist and illustrator that day, Mr. Chua became a role model to them. His focus, determination and knowledge of one’s self are defining qualities to be excellent and successful in a chosen craft or trade. In Xavier School lingo, it is called magis.
Mr. Chua was grateful for the opportunity to go back and give back a little something to Xavier School. If given another chance, he is open to the possibility to teach digital drawing to students. Visit his website at http://joelchua.com.
Students helping and reaching out. A young reader who shared with others his enthusiasm for books and reading. A visiting alumnus living out the spirit of magis. These are but a few of the many ways the school library can enrich and enhance the academic and formation programs of the school. No more of the warehouse and student services mentality for libraries. The GS LRC is an extension of the classroom.
Tuesday, December 5, 2006
Opened Doors*
In the fairy tale, Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, a magical door to a cavern filled with priceless treasures could be opened using a most interesting password: Open Sesame! Thus, the one who knows the password could easily have access to the cavern’s contents. This part of the fairy tale would always leave me in awe because the school library is very much like the cavern of treasures in the story. The doors of the school library, however, are always open for its main users, students and teachers, who are equipped with the knowledge and skill in using the learning resources that are available.
Learning resources refer to the combination of print, AV and electronic formats for teaching, instruction and leisurely activities. The GS LRC gears up with initiatives that balance the utility of these learning resources.
Storytelling Workshop. Last November 8, 2006, 35 parents trooped to the EED LRC for a fun filled workshop on Storytelling. These parents were all volunteers for the National Book Week celebration in the EED. Already an annual workshop, it had new offerings and techniques for the parents who attended. With their positive evaluation of the activity, more and more parents would be confident enough to tell stories. As one parent puts it, “…[I learned how to be] engaging so that kids would enjoy and like reading books.”
Mediashoppe & Techtorial. These two programs of the GS LRC have helped teachers identify instructional materials for the classroom. One very important service that the AV section of the GS LRC has been giving to Filipino & Social Studies teachers is the recording and dubbing of commercials for their media education lesson. Integrated in the Filipino and Social Studies curriculum, the commercials are used to teach concepts, and enhance critical thinking skills. The good news is, ads and commercials can now be accessed via the Internet. It is only a matter of time until procedures for using and embedding them in PowerPoint presentations could be identified to agree with the correct use of copyright and intellectual property.
Online Directory. Reference & IT Librarian, Mrs. Chit Olivares has come up with an online directory for teachers. Using a free hosting website, FURL.com, it is now easier to track URLs of websites for teaching. It may sound like your ordinary Bookmark in a web browser but FURL lends help by referring users to other web resources available in its online database. It even has a filtering capability to prevent sites of malicious content. What’s more, building the directory of websites can be done in a communal effort. That is why the GS librarians are putting their heads together to present this directory/database to teachers in the hope that they can use it, and at the same time, contribute to its development.
These are but a few of the many treasures that the GS LRC can provide the learning community. Its doors are always open and no password is needed to access resources and information that are appropriate to students and useful to teachers.
* This article first appeared in the Xavier School Website.
Learning resources refer to the combination of print, AV and electronic formats for teaching, instruction and leisurely activities. The GS LRC gears up with initiatives that balance the utility of these learning resources.
Storytelling Workshop. Last November 8, 2006, 35 parents trooped to the EED LRC for a fun filled workshop on Storytelling. These parents were all volunteers for the National Book Week celebration in the EED. Already an annual workshop, it had new offerings and techniques for the parents who attended. With their positive evaluation of the activity, more and more parents would be confident enough to tell stories. As one parent puts it, “…[I learned how to be] engaging so that kids would enjoy and like reading books.”
Mediashoppe & Techtorial. These two programs of the GS LRC have helped teachers identify instructional materials for the classroom. One very important service that the AV section of the GS LRC has been giving to Filipino & Social Studies teachers is the recording and dubbing of commercials for their media education lesson. Integrated in the Filipino and Social Studies curriculum, the commercials are used to teach concepts, and enhance critical thinking skills. The good news is, ads and commercials can now be accessed via the Internet. It is only a matter of time until procedures for using and embedding them in PowerPoint presentations could be identified to agree with the correct use of copyright and intellectual property.
Online Directory. Reference & IT Librarian, Mrs. Chit Olivares has come up with an online directory for teachers. Using a free hosting website, FURL.com, it is now easier to track URLs of websites for teaching. It may sound like your ordinary Bookmark in a web browser but FURL lends help by referring users to other web resources available in its online database. It even has a filtering capability to prevent sites of malicious content. What’s more, building the directory of websites can be done in a communal effort. That is why the GS librarians are putting their heads together to present this directory/database to teachers in the hope that they can use it, and at the same time, contribute to its development.
These are but a few of the many treasures that the GS LRC can provide the learning community. Its doors are always open and no password is needed to access resources and information that are appropriate to students and useful to teachers.
* This article first appeared in the Xavier School Website.
Friday, December 1, 2006
Turtle's Tale by Gerald Brown
I was with Gerald Brown, Honorary Ambassador of IASL, in the National Book Week Fellowship Night. The following day, we met again to discuss his next trip to Manila sometime next year. Apparently, Gerald, has touched base with PATLS for a conference addressing library education in the Philippines. Plans are still tentative and everything else is still floating on air but, given the time and the resources, it may just be possible.
Lunch with Gerald Brown was a full meal of food and conversations. At the end of the productive lunch meeting, he left with me his proposals for workshops, CDs of presentations, a research paper and a story.
In his calling card, you would find important information about him, of course. But the most striking thing about his calling card was the logo of a sea turtle. It took only one question, "why a turtle?", for Gerald to tell the story.
Twenty five hears ago, Gerald's friend and coleague was frustrated at the state of librarianship in that district of Canada where they work. To pacify his friend, he said, "Be like the turtle, slow and steady but it's going to get where it intends to go. It's a mark of leadership." From then on, Gerald has used the turtle's metaphor for change and evolution.
Tutles do know where to go. They have the vision. They stick their necks out but they're slow and steady. They can overcome obstacles and hardships because they're made of tough skin. Or shell, I should say. They lay eggs. And these eggs are like ideas. Some eggs die before being hatched. Some are eaten and manipulated. Some live but are endangered by predators. Some go back to the sea to flourish and live. This has been the turtles' life for years and it has survived.
Leadership like the turtle's is not made of arrogance and bravado, but of hardwork, wisdom, longevity, risk taking and perseverance. Such traits that also bespeak of Gerald Brown.
Have a safe trip back to Canada, Gerald! See you again soon!
Lunch with Gerald Brown was a full meal of food and conversations. At the end of the productive lunch meeting, he left with me his proposals for workshops, CDs of presentations, a research paper and a story.
In his calling card, you would find important information about him, of course. But the most striking thing about his calling card was the logo of a sea turtle. It took only one question, "why a turtle?", for Gerald to tell the story.
Twenty five hears ago, Gerald's friend and coleague was frustrated at the state of librarianship in that district of Canada where they work. To pacify his friend, he said, "Be like the turtle, slow and steady but it's going to get where it intends to go. It's a mark of leadership." From then on, Gerald has used the turtle's metaphor for change and evolution.
Tutles do know where to go. They have the vision. They stick their necks out but they're slow and steady. They can overcome obstacles and hardships because they're made of tough skin. Or shell, I should say. They lay eggs. And these eggs are like ideas. Some eggs die before being hatched. Some are eaten and manipulated. Some live but are endangered by predators. Some go back to the sea to flourish and live. This has been the turtles' life for years and it has survived.
Leadership like the turtle's is not made of arrogance and bravado, but of hardwork, wisdom, longevity, risk taking and perseverance. Such traits that also bespeak of Gerald Brown.
Have a safe trip back to Canada, Gerald! See you again soon!
Friday, November 24, 2006
National Book Week 2006
Today is the launching of the the 2006 National Book Week. Libraries all over the Philippines have organized activities to celebrate the occassion. Librarians have filled up their leaves and asked permission to attend seminars, lectures and forum for continuous education. For more of these, the calendar of activities of the NBW may be viewed via the UPLSAA website.
What makes this celebration a notable one for me is its theme, "Bata, Bata...Halina't Magbasa". It seems that, after a long while, Filipino Librarians have finally recognized children, books, reading and the role that libraries and librarians play to develop and nurture it.
I may not be in the forefront of the NBW this year, unlike in years past, but I sure would be doing my own little way to promote it. Tomorrow, November 25, 2006 will be my seminar-workshop at Powerbooks. I will be sharing with my collegaues in the profession trends in school library management as well as, current theories why developing libraries for children is a must in this day and age. My seminar begins at 1.00 pm. This is an activity of the Philippine Board on Books for Young People. And though it is not included in the NBW calendar, we, in the Board are happy to have activities in congruence to NBW.
Apart from this, I will also be busy tomorrow morning for the KUTING General Assembly. We will be welcoming new members to the organization. Honestly, I still shudder at the thought of being KUTING officer. Perhaps there is something in the stars that made me KUTING President this year. As a librarian who writes for children, I never dreamed of becoming its president. Then again, maybe, it has a purpose. For after all, KUTING does not only aim to help writers of children grow in their craft but promotes Philippine Children's Literature too.
I hope the second objective justifies my presence in KUTING.
What makes this celebration a notable one for me is its theme, "Bata, Bata...Halina't Magbasa". It seems that, after a long while, Filipino Librarians have finally recognized children, books, reading and the role that libraries and librarians play to develop and nurture it.
I may not be in the forefront of the NBW this year, unlike in years past, but I sure would be doing my own little way to promote it. Tomorrow, November 25, 2006 will be my seminar-workshop at Powerbooks. I will be sharing with my collegaues in the profession trends in school library management as well as, current theories why developing libraries for children is a must in this day and age. My seminar begins at 1.00 pm. This is an activity of the Philippine Board on Books for Young People. And though it is not included in the NBW calendar, we, in the Board are happy to have activities in congruence to NBW.
Apart from this, I will also be busy tomorrow morning for the KUTING General Assembly. We will be welcoming new members to the organization. Honestly, I still shudder at the thought of being KUTING officer. Perhaps there is something in the stars that made me KUTING President this year. As a librarian who writes for children, I never dreamed of becoming its president. Then again, maybe, it has a purpose. For after all, KUTING does not only aim to help writers of children grow in their craft but promotes Philippine Children's Literature too.
I hope the second objective justifies my presence in KUTING.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Meeting Emong Borlongan
I missed the launching of Becky Bravo's book, The Rocking Horse, last month. The book's illustrations were paintings done by Elmer Borlongan. When I learned that SAS was planning a training-team building session at the Bolipata Farm in Zambales, I was excited to go. Not only did I have the chance to bond with other SAS trainors and facilitators, I got to meet Elmer Borlongan as well!
Monday, November 13, 2006
The Salanga Award
I have written in this blog many times on the Salanga Award given by the PBBY. This year, I was again, judge in the contest. And what good entries we have this year! This week, Ani Almario, PBBY Secretariat, will send a press release of the winners. But before I let you in on the experience of judging this year, allow me to say some things about the award.
Just to establish recall and context, the Salanga is given by the Philippine Board on Books for Young People (PBBY)for the best story written for children annualy. It was named after Alfredo Salanga, one of PBBY's founding members and advocate of Philippine Children's Literature. Very soon, the Alcala Prize, after comic book creator, Larry Alcala, will be opened for illustrators to draw the story that won first prize.
It can be said that the Salanga is the Philippines' counterpart to America's Newbery, the Alcala to the Caldecott. While the Newbery and the Caldecott awards are determined by librarians (yes, Virginia, they have a strong voice when it comes to recommending and recognizing quality literature for children), the Salanga and the Alcala prizes are handed over by advocates of children's literature in the Philippines - non other than, the PBBY.
The PPBBY is composed of sectoral representatives from the field of education, writing, publishing, illustrating, book selling and review, storytelling, research and media.
This year, there are three honorable mention and a first prize winner. Take note that entries for this year consists of issues once considered "taboo" for children to read. This is a good sign that Philippine children's literature is continuously on the move. Homosexuality is one example of a theme that would not be entered in such a contest five or ten years ago. This year, we have around two or three stories on homosexuality to talk about. Death surprised us this year via an entry that confronts the issue straight on. Children are not spared of poverty and disease, thus, a handful of stories dealing on coping mechanisms and getting sick and thriftiness found their way in the judges' top ten.
But of course, there were entries that speak of traditional and tried formats of stories for children. When can our writers, particularly those who are starting out in this promising side of the industry, realize that literature for kids can also entertain. Many still perceive children's literature to be a vehicle to teach a moral. All stories have morals, even the bad ones. Now, how the concept and theme was written and presented for kids to understand and enjoy spells the difference.
The craft of writing for children is for another post.
Just to establish recall and context, the Salanga is given by the Philippine Board on Books for Young People (PBBY)for the best story written for children annualy. It was named after Alfredo Salanga, one of PBBY's founding members and advocate of Philippine Children's Literature. Very soon, the Alcala Prize, after comic book creator, Larry Alcala, will be opened for illustrators to draw the story that won first prize.
It can be said that the Salanga is the Philippines' counterpart to America's Newbery, the Alcala to the Caldecott. While the Newbery and the Caldecott awards are determined by librarians (yes, Virginia, they have a strong voice when it comes to recommending and recognizing quality literature for children), the Salanga and the Alcala prizes are handed over by advocates of children's literature in the Philippines - non other than, the PBBY.
The PPBBY is composed of sectoral representatives from the field of education, writing, publishing, illustrating, book selling and review, storytelling, research and media.
This year, there are three honorable mention and a first prize winner. Take note that entries for this year consists of issues once considered "taboo" for children to read. This is a good sign that Philippine children's literature is continuously on the move. Homosexuality is one example of a theme that would not be entered in such a contest five or ten years ago. This year, we have around two or three stories on homosexuality to talk about. Death surprised us this year via an entry that confronts the issue straight on. Children are not spared of poverty and disease, thus, a handful of stories dealing on coping mechanisms and getting sick and thriftiness found their way in the judges' top ten.
But of course, there were entries that speak of traditional and tried formats of stories for children. When can our writers, particularly those who are starting out in this promising side of the industry, realize that literature for kids can also entertain. Many still perceive children's literature to be a vehicle to teach a moral. All stories have morals, even the bad ones. Now, how the concept and theme was written and presented for kids to understand and enjoy spells the difference.
The craft of writing for children is for another post.
Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Creating Classroom Libraries
Below is the PowerPoint presentation of my workshop session for the Petron Programang Kaakbay Conference. Delivered on October 28, 2006, I shared with public school teachers the importance and rationale of setting classroom libraries. They were also provided basic tips to organize and develop basic classrrom library collection for their students.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Building a Nation of Readers*
More and more literacy campaigns are sprouting in the metro and nearby suburbs. A good sign of hope, that is. While our politicians rumble and ramble, teachers, artists, reading advocates, socio-civic volunteers, NGO's and the religous continue to carry the mission of enlightening young people - their minds, hearts and souls.
BASA & Fr. Ted Gonzales SJ
I was surprised to learn that Fr. Ted Gonzales, our ME Spiritual Director, is founder of a volunteer-outreach project fostering reading advocacy. Bayan Akayin sa Abot Tanaw (BASA), dreams of developing minds that are alive for nation building. And what better way to do that but to put up a library and expose children to books and reading.
Aklatang Pambata
Barangay Paltok is fast becoming a popular destination for volunteers who believe that a community of readers must have a working and visible community library. Troy Lacsamana, the brainchild behind Aklatang Pambata is continously nurturing the young people of Barangay Paltok towards that goal.
Sa Aklat Sisikat Foundation (SAS)
After a successful four day teacher conference in Xavier School, the Programang Kaakbay of SAS & Petron Foundation is well on its way to becoming an annual event for public school teachers in basic education. This year's conference, 154 public school teachers listened to plenary speakers and participated in workshop sessions that firmed up their teaching of reading skills. Founded by Lizzie Zobel and Margarita Delgado, SAS continues to partner with foundations, institutions, organizations donors and corporate sponsors who share the same vision and mission of *building a nation of readers. For photos of the recent confeence (October 27-30, 2006) go here.
These are but some of the many literacy initiatives in the country today. It can not be denied that the presence and accesibility of reading centers and libraries is crucial for children to read and love books. Hope floats after all. If only our government leaders would invest on education and literacy development.
BASA & Fr. Ted Gonzales SJ
I was surprised to learn that Fr. Ted Gonzales, our ME Spiritual Director, is founder of a volunteer-outreach project fostering reading advocacy. Bayan Akayin sa Abot Tanaw (BASA), dreams of developing minds that are alive for nation building. And what better way to do that but to put up a library and expose children to books and reading.
Aklatang Pambata
Barangay Paltok is fast becoming a popular destination for volunteers who believe that a community of readers must have a working and visible community library. Troy Lacsamana, the brainchild behind Aklatang Pambata is continously nurturing the young people of Barangay Paltok towards that goal.
Sa Aklat Sisikat Foundation (SAS)
After a successful four day teacher conference in Xavier School, the Programang Kaakbay of SAS & Petron Foundation is well on its way to becoming an annual event for public school teachers in basic education. This year's conference, 154 public school teachers listened to plenary speakers and participated in workshop sessions that firmed up their teaching of reading skills. Founded by Lizzie Zobel and Margarita Delgado, SAS continues to partner with foundations, institutions, organizations donors and corporate sponsors who share the same vision and mission of *building a nation of readers. For photos of the recent confeence (October 27-30, 2006) go here.
These are but some of the many literacy initiatives in the country today. It can not be denied that the presence and accesibility of reading centers and libraries is crucial for children to read and love books. Hope floats after all. If only our government leaders would invest on education and literacy development.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Reflections of a Teaching Librarian
I have just finished completing all requirements for my graduate school courses - EDR 210 - Trends in Teacing Reading & EDR 211 - Reading in the Content Areas. Now some may wonder, why a school librarian studying Reading Education. My short essay provides reason enough. So I hope.
Reflecting the Links in Learning
The experience of teaching street kids and public school children is not something new to me. I have had opportunities in the past to facilitate learning structures with such a group. It was a long time ago that it seemed so strange and surreal to have done it again. I am surprised at myself to have survived and endured the whole thing.
To prepare for the demo teaching in Learning Links, I had to catch up with my group mates who were practitioners of the Four Pronged Approach. There were videos and group discussions of course, but in teaching, the real stuff matters more. The actual “doing and making” counts a lot compared to viewed and simulated environments. Much as I tried, I was a newbie. And so, I let my two group mates run the show and lent support as much as I can. For a graduate student who juggles work, motherhood, wifehood and all the extras on the side, my two group mates, Daisy Cunanan and Joyce Dumlao were a blessing. I learned as much from them as I did with the kids in Learning Links.
At this point in my scholarly life, learning from my peers is, to me, more important than actually acquiring skills to better my teaching craft. I have already reached a certain level of facilitating library skills. Though the room for improvement is always the biggest in the house, I did not strictly require myself to immerse in the Four Pronged Approach. This does not mean that my interest and motivation is little. It just so happens that my application of it is very different from the regular classroom teacher.
Sure, I have many uses of the Four Pronged Approach and the other theoretical trends taken up in class but from a different context. By being able to understand such theories, concepts and philosophies, I could speak with literacy teachers in the language that they are comfortable in. I am not merely a librarian who would recommend learning resources. I am a librarian who could help them teach better with the use of both theories and learning resources. Better yet, I could select and acquire resources that are relevant to the curriculum and to the instructional needs of teachers.
I am thankful that Joyce provided balance to the force. She is my contemporary in the classroom of life. On the other hand Daisy, is what I was ten years ago – assertive; strikes while the iron is hot. I still am assertive, but I have learned to choose which hot iron to strike. As for the kids in Learning Links, they may be scruffy and rough at the edges, but they are no different from my own or from the privilege boys I teach in Xavier Grade School. All children, no matter who they are or where they come from must be taught; be taken cared for; be looked after. Children deserve to be respected.
Monday, October 23, 2006
PBBY @ Powerbooks
The Philippine Board on Books for Young People (PBBY) is inviting all parents, teachers, librarians, and reading advocates to participate in two workshops at Powerbooks Live, Greenbelt this coming November.
Hooked on Books: 25 Ways to Promote Literacy at Home and In School
Facilitator: Neni Sta Romana Cruz (children's book reviewer and former teacher, PBBY Board member)
Nov. 18, 2006, Powerbooks Live, 1-5 pm, Workshop fee: P500
The Role of the Librarian in Developing a Library for Children Facilitator: Zarah Gagatiga (librarian, storyteller and reading advocate, PBBY Board member)
November 25, 2006, Powerbooks Live, 1-5pm, Workshop Fee: P500
An early bird rate of PhP400 per workshop will be offered to all those who will register on or before October 27, 2006. For inquiries, email pbby@adarna.com.ph, or call 372-35-48 loc 110 and look for Vanessa.
Hooked on Books: 25 Ways to Promote Literacy at Home and In School
Facilitator: Neni Sta Romana Cruz (children's book reviewer and former teacher, PBBY Board member)
Nov. 18, 2006, Powerbooks Live, 1-5 pm, Workshop fee: P500
This workshop will assist parents and teachers in making children enjoy reading and writing. Topics for discussion are what's current in children's books, choosing books for young readers and the many ways to lure children to read. An optional session is addressed to those interested in learning how to write book reviews for publication.
The Role of the Librarian in Developing a Library for Children Facilitator: Zarah Gagatiga (librarian, storyteller and reading advocate, PBBY Board member)
November 25, 2006, Powerbooks Live, 1-5pm, Workshop Fee: P500
This seminar identifies the important roles that librarians play in the development of of children's libraries. It explores current literature enunciating the rationale for developing print, AV, and online resources that are developmentally relevant and age appropriae. It discusses techniques and strategies to an improved children's library program and services. Opportunities for linkages and resource sharing for librarians are included as well.
An early bird rate of PhP400 per workshop will be offered to all those who will register on or before October 27, 2006. For inquiries, email pbby@adarna.com.ph, or call 372-35-48 loc 110 and look for Vanessa.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Plagiarized Posts
Von is not the only one perplexed these days. I am too. I just discovered from his post today that he is not the only victim of the cut-and-paste habit. Tsk.Tsk.Tsk.
Arnold Zafra's comment on Von's post says it all. Two of my original written articles, part of the paper I wrote as lecture for PATLS' lecture forum on Information Literacy, made it to this blog without attribution nor citation. Read my post here and compare. If that is not plagiarism, tell me what is.
The blog was constructed by LIS (Library & Inofrmation Science) students of UST, which makes the situation very disturbing, to me at least. I hold UST's LIS Department with great esteem given the very good teachers that the department has. I also know a lot of excellent librarians who are graduates of UST. And now, this.
Surely, there is a reasonable explanation.
Arnold Zafra's comment on Von's post says it all. Two of my original written articles, part of the paper I wrote as lecture for PATLS' lecture forum on Information Literacy, made it to this blog without attribution nor citation. Read my post here and compare. If that is not plagiarism, tell me what is.
The blog was constructed by LIS (Library & Inofrmation Science) students of UST, which makes the situation very disturbing, to me at least. I hold UST's LIS Department with great esteem given the very good teachers that the department has. I also know a lot of excellent librarians who are graduates of UST. And now, this.
Surely, there is a reasonable explanation.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Code of Ethics for Registered Filipino Librarians
I am posting the Code of Ethics to always remind myself of the oath I have taken as a Filipino Librarian, lest I forget.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
SlideShare
The moment I got Von's invite for SlideShare, I tried it immediately. See what I uploaded and embeded here in SLIA.
SlideShare is still in Beta version, meaning, it's in a testing period. I expect more improvements in the future.
SlideShare is still in Beta version, meaning, it's in a testing period. I expect more improvements in the future.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
The Internet for Teaching Reading in the Content Areas
Here is a copy of my report in EDR 211 - Reading in the Content Areas. I have distributed CD's of my report to my classmates in grad school, but I feel it necessary to upload in SLIA.
Introduction
The Internet for Teaching : Issues & Concerns
IRA Position Paper on Technology Integration
NETS Standards for Teachers
Web Enhanced Teaching
Introduction
The Internet for Teaching : Issues & Concerns
IRA Position Paper on Technology Integration
NETS Standards for Teachers
Web Enhanced Teaching
Web Enhanced Teaching
Now we go to the exciting part! Since the Internet has a lot to offer, this part of the report narrows three functions of the Internet that is useful to teaching and instruction. Activities, projects and strategies for its use in the content areas are provided.
A. Information Source
The Internet is a source of information. How to access and locate information from the Internet can be taught to children. Apart from the Internet lessons they get from Computer Education class, teachers can strengthen the skill by teaching search strategies.
Bernie Poole lends four easy search strategies.
1. Use quotes to narrow your search
2. Use simple math (+ and -) to narrow your search
3. Use Quick Keys to construct your search string (Control-c & Control-v)
4. Use Control-f to quickly find what you're looking for on a Web page (Control-f)
The ever dependable semantic webbing can also be called upon to narrow search words before using Google or Yahoo.
Locating and accessing information is one thing. Evaluating information is another. Children should be empowered to determine if the information they need has value to their assignment, report or project. Kathy Schrock has developed evaluation rubrics for websites that children in the primary and intermediate levels can use (Attachment 4).
As information source, the Internet is abundant with online newspapers and references. Here are recommended websites:
Online Newspapers & References for Kids
The New York Times for Kids
http://www.nytimes.com/learning/index.html
Weekly Reader Online
http://www.weeklyreader.com/index.asp
Time for Kids
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/
Online Encyclopedia
http://www.worldbookonline.com/wb/Login?ed=wb
Online Dictionary & Almanac
http://www.factmonster.com/
Given the wealth of resources available for teachers, it is necessary that they teach students to become critical readers of online materials. Here are web evaluation rubrics to empower the learning child in using the Internet as resource tool.
ALA Great Websites for Kids
http://www.ala.org/ala/alsc/greatwebsites/greatwebsitesforkids/greatwebsites.htm
It gives a very brief but substantial set of criteria. Tips on how to maximize the WWW in the classroom are also included.
Kids’ Selection Criteria
http://www.madison.k12.wi.us/tnl/detectives/kids/selection.html
It identifies four simple criteria that children can use. Emphasizing on the evaluation of both content and design for better projects and reports help the student appreciate the value of assessing a website independently.
Kathy Schrock’s Web Evaluation Rubrics
http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/evalelem.html
B. E-Learning Tool
Aside from its strength as an information source, the Internet is a viable tool for electronic learning. Below are examples of e-learning activities.
WebQuests
Web Quest Blog
http://webquest.org/
WebQuest for Science (Integrating Lang. Arts and Civics)
http://www.teachtheteachers.org/projects/MBergey/top.htm
More WebQuest for Grade 3, 4 and 5
http://www.thematzats.com/webquest/grade.html
Online & Distance Learning
Xavier School ELF
http://elf.xs.edu.ph/login/index.php
Using Moodle, online activities, homeworks, assignments and quizzes are designed and uploaded in the e-learning software.
Educational Games & Drills
Language Arts
Grammar Gorillas
http://www.funbrain.com/grammar/
Online Stories
http://www.magickeys.com/books/
Literacy activities
http://www.busyteacherscafe.com/literacy_centers/main.htm
Worksheets on Phonics
http://schoolexpress.com/fws/cat.php?id=2254
Worksheets on Reading
http://schoolexpress.com/fws/cat.php?id=2255
Math Drills & Games
Basic Operations
http://www.busyteacherscafe.com/wspages/math.htm
Drills for Word Problems, Fractions, etc.
http://donnayoung.org/math/drills.htm
Timed drills and activities
http://www.glc.k12.ga.us/trc/cluster.asp?mode=browse&intPathID=4987
Make your own drills and games
http://www.quia.com/web
C. Communication Tool
Content can be created in the Internet. It can be communicated using email technology, e-groups and blogs. Conferences and email exchange projects are engaging activities for students.
Telecolaboartion - The Storylady Project Full Paper
http://sblogs.writingproject.org/gems/blogwrite9/gagatiga.pdf#search=%22Zarah%20Gagatiga%2BTelecollaboration%22
The Storylady Project – Articles
http://www.xs.edu.ph/storylady.php
http://www.xs.edu.ph/x.php?x=telecollaboration
http://lovealibrarian.blogspot.com/2005/06/telecollaboration.html
Web Publishing – Blogs as Teaching Tools
http://lovealibrarian.blogspot.com/2006/05/full-paper-blogs-as-teaching-tools.html
Indeed, the Internet has a lot to offer the teacher of today. There are factors and issues that must be considered when using this technology in instruction. In the creative and innovative hands of the teacher, he has the power to engage students in learning via this medium but only when he has a clear understanding of what responsibility lies in its power.
References:
Websites
Promoting a Safe & Legal Digital World. BSA
http://www.bsa.org/usa/press/newsreleases/kids-teachers-online-safety.cfm
Kids’ Safety in the Internet
http://www.commonsensemedia.org/news/press-releases.php?id=23
Survey Shows Widespread Enthusiasm for High Technology
http://www.npr.org/programs/specials/poll/technology/index.html
International Society for Technology in Education
http://www.iste.org/
NETS Technology Standards for Teachers
http://cnets.iste.org/getdocs.html
Website Evaluation Criteria
Elementary Level (K-4))
http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/evalelem.html
Middle School Level (Gr. 5-8)
http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/evalmidd.html
Bernie Poole’s Search Strategies
http://www.education-world.com/a_tech/tech/tech225.shtml
Books:
Verma, Mahesh. Online Teaching Tools & Methods. Murari Lal & Sons, New Delhi. 2006
A. Information Source
The Internet is a source of information. How to access and locate information from the Internet can be taught to children. Apart from the Internet lessons they get from Computer Education class, teachers can strengthen the skill by teaching search strategies.
Bernie Poole lends four easy search strategies.
1. Use quotes to narrow your search
2. Use simple math (+ and -) to narrow your search
3. Use Quick Keys to construct your search string (Control-c & Control-v)
4. Use Control-f to quickly find what you're looking for on a Web page (Control-f)
The ever dependable semantic webbing can also be called upon to narrow search words before using Google or Yahoo.
Locating and accessing information is one thing. Evaluating information is another. Children should be empowered to determine if the information they need has value to their assignment, report or project. Kathy Schrock has developed evaluation rubrics for websites that children in the primary and intermediate levels can use (Attachment 4).
As information source, the Internet is abundant with online newspapers and references. Here are recommended websites:
Online Newspapers & References for Kids
The New York Times for Kids
http://www.nytimes.com/learning/index.html
Weekly Reader Online
http://www.weeklyreader.com/index.asp
Time for Kids
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/
Online Encyclopedia
http://www.worldbookonline.com/wb/Login?ed=wb
Online Dictionary & Almanac
http://www.factmonster.com/
Given the wealth of resources available for teachers, it is necessary that they teach students to become critical readers of online materials. Here are web evaluation rubrics to empower the learning child in using the Internet as resource tool.
ALA Great Websites for Kids
http://www.ala.org/ala/alsc/greatwebsites/greatwebsitesforkids/greatwebsites.htm
It gives a very brief but substantial set of criteria. Tips on how to maximize the WWW in the classroom are also included.
Kids’ Selection Criteria
http://www.madison.k12.wi.us/tnl/detectives/kids/selection.html
It identifies four simple criteria that children can use. Emphasizing on the evaluation of both content and design for better projects and reports help the student appreciate the value of assessing a website independently.
Kathy Schrock’s Web Evaluation Rubrics
http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/evalelem.html
B. E-Learning Tool
Aside from its strength as an information source, the Internet is a viable tool for electronic learning. Below are examples of e-learning activities.
WebQuests
Web Quest Blog
http://webquest.org/
WebQuest for Science (Integrating Lang. Arts and Civics)
http://www.teachtheteachers.org/projects/MBergey/top.htm
More WebQuest for Grade 3, 4 and 5
http://www.thematzats.com/webquest/grade.html
Online & Distance Learning
Xavier School ELF
http://elf.xs.edu.ph/login/index.php
Using Moodle, online activities, homeworks, assignments and quizzes are designed and uploaded in the e-learning software.
Educational Games & Drills
Language Arts
Grammar Gorillas
http://www.funbrain.com/grammar/
Online Stories
http://www.magickeys.com/books/
Literacy activities
http://www.busyteacherscafe.com/literacy_centers/main.htm
Worksheets on Phonics
http://schoolexpress.com/fws/cat.php?id=2254
Worksheets on Reading
http://schoolexpress.com/fws/cat.php?id=2255
Math Drills & Games
Basic Operations
http://www.busyteacherscafe.com/wspages/math.htm
Drills for Word Problems, Fractions, etc.
http://donnayoung.org/math/drills.htm
Timed drills and activities
http://www.glc.k12.ga.us/trc/cluster.asp?mode=browse&intPathID=4987
Make your own drills and games
http://www.quia.com/web
C. Communication Tool
Content can be created in the Internet. It can be communicated using email technology, e-groups and blogs. Conferences and email exchange projects are engaging activities for students.
Telecolaboartion - The Storylady Project Full Paper
http://sblogs.writingproject.org/gems/blogwrite9/gagatiga.pdf#search=%22Zarah%20Gagatiga%2BTelecollaboration%22
The Storylady Project – Articles
http://www.xs.edu.ph/storylady.php
http://www.xs.edu.ph/x.php?x=telecollaboration
http://lovealibrarian.blogspot.com/2005/06/telecollaboration.html
Web Publishing – Blogs as Teaching Tools
http://lovealibrarian.blogspot.com/2006/05/full-paper-blogs-as-teaching-tools.html
Indeed, the Internet has a lot to offer the teacher of today. There are factors and issues that must be considered when using this technology in instruction. In the creative and innovative hands of the teacher, he has the power to engage students in learning via this medium but only when he has a clear understanding of what responsibility lies in its power.
References:
Websites
Promoting a Safe & Legal Digital World. BSA
http://www.bsa.org/usa/press/newsreleases/kids-teachers-online-safety.cfm
Kids’ Safety in the Internet
http://www.commonsensemedia.org/news/press-releases.php?id=23
Survey Shows Widespread Enthusiasm for High Technology
http://www.npr.org/programs/specials/poll/technology/index.html
International Society for Technology in Education
http://www.iste.org/
NETS Technology Standards for Teachers
http://cnets.iste.org/getdocs.html
Website Evaluation Criteria
Elementary Level (K-4))
http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/evalelem.html
Middle School Level (Gr. 5-8)
http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/evalmidd.html
Bernie Poole’s Search Strategies
http://www.education-world.com/a_tech/tech/tech225.shtml
Books:
Verma, Mahesh. Online Teaching Tools & Methods. Murari Lal & Sons, New Delhi. 2006
NETS Standards for Teachers
Another useful document to aid teachers with the use of technology is the International Society for Technology in Education standards. Known as the National Educational Technology Standards (NETS) for Teachers, it enumerates six areas with specific indicators to guide teachers in the application of technology in education.
1 TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS AND CONCEPTS.
Teachers demonstrate a sound understanding of technology operations and concepts.
2 PLANNING AND DESIGNING LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS AND EXPERIENCES.
Teachers plan and design effective learning environments and experiences supported by technology.
3 TEACHING, LEARNING, AND THE CURRICULUM.
Teachers implement curriculum plans that include methods and strategies for applying technology to maximize student learning.
4 ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION.
Teachers apply technology to facilitate a variety of effective assessment and evaluation strategies.
5 PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE.
Teachers use technology to enhance their productivity and professional practice.
6 SOCIAL, ETHICAL, LEGAL, AND HUMAN ISSUES.
Teachers understand the social, ethical, legal, and human issues surrounding the use of technology in PK-12 schools and apply those principles in practice.
1 TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS AND CONCEPTS.
Teachers demonstrate a sound understanding of technology operations and concepts.
2 PLANNING AND DESIGNING LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS AND EXPERIENCES.
Teachers plan and design effective learning environments and experiences supported by technology.
3 TEACHING, LEARNING, AND THE CURRICULUM.
Teachers implement curriculum plans that include methods and strategies for applying technology to maximize student learning.
4 ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION.
Teachers apply technology to facilitate a variety of effective assessment and evaluation strategies.
5 PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE.
Teachers use technology to enhance their productivity and professional practice.
6 SOCIAL, ETHICAL, LEGAL, AND HUMAN ISSUES.
Teachers understand the social, ethical, legal, and human issues surrounding the use of technology in PK-12 schools and apply those principles in practice.
IRA Position Paper on Technology Integration
Since Internet use for teaching does not exist in a vacuum, it is necessary to establish moorings given the factors that influence its application. Here is the position statement of the International Reading Association on the facility of technology (the Internet, included) for instruction.
We (IRA) believe that children have the right to:
* Teachers who are skilled in the effective use of ICT for teaching and learning;
* A literacy curriculum that integrates the new literacies of ICT into instructional programs;
* Instruction that develops the critical literacies essential to effective information use
* Assessment practices in literacy that include reading and writing with technology tools;
* Opportunities to learn safe and responsible use of information and communication technologies;
* Equal access to ICT
We (IRA) believe that children have the right to:
* Teachers who are skilled in the effective use of ICT for teaching and learning;
* A literacy curriculum that integrates the new literacies of ICT into instructional programs;
* Instruction that develops the critical literacies essential to effective information use
* Assessment practices in literacy that include reading and writing with technology tools;
* Opportunities to learn safe and responsible use of information and communication technologies;
* Equal access to ICT
Internet for Teaching : Issues & Concerns
There are factors that a teacher must consider before taking the plunge on Internet use for teaching and instruction. These are; technology competencies – his own and his students’; the available technology – hardware, software, online resources and infrastructure; the school’s policy for Internet and technology use; curriculum and pedagogy.
a. Technology Competencies
Whatever inspired you to use the Internet for teaching you must start with an assessment of your own competencies on using this technology. It would help if you could also evaluate related technology skills apart from surfing, browsing, book marking and using of key words in search engines. Self evaluation will allow you to level off; to see strong and weak areas. It’s not possible to know everything, but a cognition of what you will be dealing with comes in handy at difficult times.
Attached with this paper is a checklist of technology skills (Attachment 1). Let’s go over it and do some ticking. Once you’re done, you can gauge the extent of Internet activities you can do in the classroom.
The very nature of the Internet is appealing to children, but, it is important that their computer and Internet literacy are assessed as well. It is not pedagogically sound to assume that “they already know”. A similar checklist may help. Coordinate with your school’s computer teacher to find out. Ask him or her if she has a profile of your students’ skills in computing and surfing. Consult the Reading teacher to know the level of reading skills of your students. Meet with your Guidance counselor for their developmental profile and socio-economic background.
Included in this report is a list of indicators to understand the maturity and vulnerability levels of children. Together with it, is a set of tips on how to engage children to use the Internet effectively. (Attachment 2)
b. Available Technology
After identifying yours and your students’ skills, level of understanding, profile, etc., move on to the tools. Check for available hardware and software; network requirements, computer labs and structures that will support your teaching. This also means that, you must know who the IT people are and the extent of their work in the school. They help in trouble shooting and upgrading.
c. School’s Policy on Internet Use
The school’s stand on Internet use may be reflected on an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). This is decided upon by academic administrators or the school board in the light of effective Internet utility for the whole school community. There are many ways of making this tangible. Some are simple. Others are seriously stated.
Samples of AUPs are attachments to this report. (Attachment 3)
d. Curriculum & Pedagogy
Instructional technology is dependent on curriculum and pedagogy. A teacher’s use of the Internet for instruction should be based on the course’s or subject’s learning goals and objectives. The instructional materials that teachers make and use help achieve a learning objective. Furthermore, it assists students to understand knowledge, skills and attitudes of a given discipline. It is therefore very important that teachers use instructional technology, in this case, the Internet, appropriately.
a. Technology Competencies
Whatever inspired you to use the Internet for teaching you must start with an assessment of your own competencies on using this technology. It would help if you could also evaluate related technology skills apart from surfing, browsing, book marking and using of key words in search engines. Self evaluation will allow you to level off; to see strong and weak areas. It’s not possible to know everything, but a cognition of what you will be dealing with comes in handy at difficult times.
Attached with this paper is a checklist of technology skills (Attachment 1). Let’s go over it and do some ticking. Once you’re done, you can gauge the extent of Internet activities you can do in the classroom.
The very nature of the Internet is appealing to children, but, it is important that their computer and Internet literacy are assessed as well. It is not pedagogically sound to assume that “they already know”. A similar checklist may help. Coordinate with your school’s computer teacher to find out. Ask him or her if she has a profile of your students’ skills in computing and surfing. Consult the Reading teacher to know the level of reading skills of your students. Meet with your Guidance counselor for their developmental profile and socio-economic background.
Included in this report is a list of indicators to understand the maturity and vulnerability levels of children. Together with it, is a set of tips on how to engage children to use the Internet effectively. (Attachment 2)
b. Available Technology
After identifying yours and your students’ skills, level of understanding, profile, etc., move on to the tools. Check for available hardware and software; network requirements, computer labs and structures that will support your teaching. This also means that, you must know who the IT people are and the extent of their work in the school. They help in trouble shooting and upgrading.
c. School’s Policy on Internet Use
The school’s stand on Internet use may be reflected on an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). This is decided upon by academic administrators or the school board in the light of effective Internet utility for the whole school community. There are many ways of making this tangible. Some are simple. Others are seriously stated.
Samples of AUPs are attachments to this report. (Attachment 3)
d. Curriculum & Pedagogy
Instructional technology is dependent on curriculum and pedagogy. A teacher’s use of the Internet for instruction should be based on the course’s or subject’s learning goals and objectives. The instructional materials that teachers make and use help achieve a learning objective. Furthermore, it assists students to understand knowledge, skills and attitudes of a given discipline. It is therefore very important that teachers use instructional technology, in this case, the Internet, appropriately.
Internet for Teaching : Introduction
The year was 1969. The US Department of Defense launched a hush-hush project that entailed the acquisition of confidential information through the use of interconnected networks. As a military tool for intelligence and defense, this interconnection of networks was developed by the National Science Foundation. After three decades, it has evolved into a phenomenal gadget and means of communication that affects the lifestyles of people from all over the globe. Dubbed as the Internet, its presence is strongly felt in all the fields of scholarly discipline, entertainment and pop culture.
Today, the Internet continues to grow rapidly. People from all walks of life and from different socio-cultural and economic backgrounds are mesmerized by the many advantages it can provide and offer. Children are not excluded to be captivated with this medium and technology. In fact, they are the more frequent users of the Internet than adults.
In many a survey conducted in the US and Australia, children are at a high percentage when it comes to exposure and access to the Internet. Since parents, teachers and caregivers know that the content of the Internet is not all treasure, efforts by schools and parent organizations to guide children in the intelligent and responsible use of the Internet has been the upswing trend in the past three years. Parents recognize the high risk of Internet use among children (commonsense media, 2006). Thus, prompting them to acquire filtering software and establishing rules at home. Teachers face a great challenge in modeling the utility of this technology. Furthermore, they are at a good position to facilitate instruction using the Internet effectively and ethically in their subject or content area.
Initiatives on technology integration and web enhanced teaching are plentiful. Schools are investing on hardware, software and training to help students become better learners. While traditional learning tools are trusted upon to deliver instruction, more and more teachers are experimenting, learning and assessing the use of Internet for teaching.
This report explores the issues and concerns surrounding the use of the Internet for teaching. Standards and position papers on the use of technology in general are identified as seedbed where teachers can root their practice of teaching using the Internet. Strategies, techniques, projects and activities using the Internet are included to show examples on the many ways that web enhanced teaching can be done in the classroom. Lastly, it provides resources for teachers to further their understanding, skill and competence in teaching using the Internet.
Today, the Internet continues to grow rapidly. People from all walks of life and from different socio-cultural and economic backgrounds are mesmerized by the many advantages it can provide and offer. Children are not excluded to be captivated with this medium and technology. In fact, they are the more frequent users of the Internet than adults.
In many a survey conducted in the US and Australia, children are at a high percentage when it comes to exposure and access to the Internet. Since parents, teachers and caregivers know that the content of the Internet is not all treasure, efforts by schools and parent organizations to guide children in the intelligent and responsible use of the Internet has been the upswing trend in the past three years. Parents recognize the high risk of Internet use among children (commonsense media, 2006). Thus, prompting them to acquire filtering software and establishing rules at home. Teachers face a great challenge in modeling the utility of this technology. Furthermore, they are at a good position to facilitate instruction using the Internet effectively and ethically in their subject or content area.
Initiatives on technology integration and web enhanced teaching are plentiful. Schools are investing on hardware, software and training to help students become better learners. While traditional learning tools are trusted upon to deliver instruction, more and more teachers are experimenting, learning and assessing the use of Internet for teaching.
This report explores the issues and concerns surrounding the use of the Internet for teaching. Standards and position papers on the use of technology in general are identified as seedbed where teachers can root their practice of teaching using the Internet. Strategies, techniques, projects and activities using the Internet are included to show examples on the many ways that web enhanced teaching can be done in the classroom. Lastly, it provides resources for teachers to further their understanding, skill and competence in teaching using the Internet.
Blograrian in the Manila Bulletin
It was Hermie Salazar who first told me of the feature article. I immediately asked for the Saturday Manila Bulletin issue from the library and there was the article indeed. I have totaly forgotten about it. With work, grad school, consultancy & training workshops in line until December, financial and domestic concerns pilling up on top of another, I no longer expected the article to appear in a national daily.
But it's an advantage to have friends in the profession. Several days after, Von Totanes spread the word in Filipino Librarian egroup. The replies were heartwarming. I would not have done and gone this far without my friends, teachers and mentors. I only hope that whatever good they did to me, I can simply pass it on.
But it's an advantage to have friends in the profession. Several days after, Von Totanes spread the word in Filipino Librarian egroup. The replies were heartwarming. I would not have done and gone this far without my friends, teachers and mentors. I only hope that whatever good they did to me, I can simply pass it on.
Tuesday, October 3, 2006
Children's Art Exhibit of Hope
From Ms. Nina Lim-Yuson of the Museo Pambata
*All Together in Dignity (ATD) Fourth World Philippines*, an international non-government organization, invites you to view an Art Exhibit of Hope to commemorate October 17, the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty.
The one-week exhibit is entitled *Listen to Us and We'll Change the World Together! Children's Art Exhibit of Hope*. It will be held at the Museo Pambata from October 14 – 22, 2006. The exhibit features life-sized fabric silhouettes created by children living in poverty from Manila, Bangkok, and various European countries. The art works expresses the hopes and dreams of these children for a better world. Program of activities on October 14 and 15 includes storytelling, children's activities, and art workshops by well know artist, Mr. Robert Alejandro.
Children are encouraged to visit the exhibit and be part of the various activities. They can create their own miniature silhouette and write their message of hope.
To participate in the various activities, contact the ATD office at telephone number 563.9312 or Museo Pambata's office at telephone number 523.1797.
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