Posted for Friday, 26 March 2010
Christine Stilwell's presentation on the future of libraries in South Africa was helpful and enlightening, coming in as the last presentation of the academy. One of the comments she had from last year's academy participants, was the following: "LIS workers in the current diverse environment, must be highly skilled people with technological, social and creative skills, who have insight into the important role they play in the education of South African people." I can thoroughly identify with this statement In my current position, I have to wear many hats, one technological, where I am well versed with the current IT, both PC knowledge and knowledge about networks, the Internet and databases, and be a people's person. My knowledge of the information contained in my library is also put to the test on a daily basis and I constantly have to scan the literature to keep abreast of what happening in my field of librarianship and that of the Health and Wellness faculty which I serve.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Multi-Culturalism in the Workplace
Posted for Thursday, 25 March 2010
The most interesting aspect of Dr. Danny Titus' presentation was the description of our society not as a melting pot, but as a "mosaic" or "tossed salad" which sees all the individuals in the society retaining their identity. These terms are replacing the "melting pot" concept of society, in which differnces are valued and appreciated as opposed to an "assimilation" culture in which ALL cultures have to adopt one dominant culture. The issue of "dimensions of diversity" is highlighted and expanded upon; some of these are:
1)Gender and religious beliefs
2) Race and marital status
3)Ethnicity and parental status
4)Age and education
5)Physical and mental ability as wells as income
6)Sexual orientation and occupation
7)Language and geographic location (these that are grouped do not necessarily relate to each other)
The most interesting aspect of Dr. Danny Titus' presentation was the description of our society not as a melting pot, but as a "mosaic" or "tossed salad" which sees all the individuals in the society retaining their identity. These terms are replacing the "melting pot" concept of society, in which differnces are valued and appreciated as opposed to an "assimilation" culture in which ALL cultures have to adopt one dominant culture. The issue of "dimensions of diversity" is highlighted and expanded upon; some of these are:
1)Gender and religious beliefs
2) Race and marital status
3)Ethnicity and parental status
4)Age and education
5)Physical and mental ability as wells as income
6)Sexual orientation and occupation
7)Language and geographic location (these that are grouped do not necessarily relate to each other)
Digital Preservation
Posted for Wednesday 24 March 2010
Ria Groenewald's work on digital preservation rang true for all we are currently doing. One of the authors she quotes states that we are living in a "digital dark ages" and that there are new "barbarians at the gate." We as librarians are, according to the author quoted, much as the monks of the Dark Ages who preserved the knowledge which was being lost. Digital information is ephemeral and it is up to librarians to preserve and make public that which is created digitally. Some of the risks for documents which are digitally created are the following:
1. Hard Drive Failure
2. URL Error - broken links
3. Storage Medium failure
4. Loss of information/ data
5. Human Error and memory
6. Hackers
Ria Groenewald's work on digital preservation rang true for all we are currently doing. One of the authors she quotes states that we are living in a "digital dark ages" and that there are new "barbarians at the gate." We as librarians are, according to the author quoted, much as the monks of the Dark Ages who preserved the knowledge which was being lost. Digital information is ephemeral and it is up to librarians to preserve and make public that which is created digitally. Some of the risks for documents which are digitally created are the following:
1. Hard Drive Failure
2. URL Error - broken links
3. Storage Medium failure
4. Loss of information/ data
5. Human Error and memory
6. Hackers
Johan Greef's Living Organisation
Posted for Tuesday, 23 March 2010
Johann Greef's presentation was fascinating. The tasks he gave us to complete was also helpful in terms of learning to complete groupwork and looking at "problems" from different positions and points of view. The task with the string tied around our hands was all about thinking outside of the box, besides being entertaining. In his notes he states that, "Nobody has a crystal ball with which they can predict the future. People will often say that senario planning is a waste of effort. However, by doing this we are actively trying to create our own future. As we consider possibilities, it will be easier for us to adapt our strategies to meet the challenges of the future." I sincerely believe that scenario planning is one way of planning for the future. Without it we simply amble along aimlessly, allowing things to happen to us without an attempt at anticipating them. Johan's living organisation, therefore, becomes a "learning" organisation through plannning for the future.
Johann Greef's presentation was fascinating. The tasks he gave us to complete was also helpful in terms of learning to complete groupwork and looking at "problems" from different positions and points of view. The task with the string tied around our hands was all about thinking outside of the box, besides being entertaining. In his notes he states that, "Nobody has a crystal ball with which they can predict the future. People will often say that senario planning is a waste of effort. However, by doing this we are actively trying to create our own future. As we consider possibilities, it will be easier for us to adapt our strategies to meet the challenges of the future." I sincerely believe that scenario planning is one way of planning for the future. Without it we simply amble along aimlessly, allowing things to happen to us without an attempt at anticipating them. Johan's living organisation, therefore, becomes a "learning" organisation through plannning for the future.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Marketing and Branding
POSTED FOR Monday, 22 March 2010
The quote in Ronel Rensburg's presentation that stood out for the entire day was the following:
" The measure of a true leader is one who not only is the first among equals, but someone who is prepared to draw on the collective knowledge of everyone around him/her. A leader is someone who fearlessly bears the consequences of his/her decisions, who does not strive to be popular, but who walks the road to which he or she is committed." I have always attempted to draw on the knowledge of others and to act on concensus as far as possible. This is not always possible as a leader has sometimes to act and make decisions on his or her own, based on past experience and knowledge of what needs to be done in the moment. The other aspect of her work stated that as a leader one should never forget the importance of formal and informal internal communication . We discussed the fact that a good leader always has his/ her "ear to the ground" and is aware, where possible, of the grapevine discussions.
The quote in Ronel Rensburg's presentation that stood out for the entire day was the following:
" The measure of a true leader is one who not only is the first among equals, but someone who is prepared to draw on the collective knowledge of everyone around him/her. A leader is someone who fearlessly bears the consequences of his/her decisions, who does not strive to be popular, but who walks the road to which he or she is committed." I have always attempted to draw on the knowledge of others and to act on concensus as far as possible. This is not always possible as a leader has sometimes to act and make decisions on his or her own, based on past experience and knowledge of what needs to be done in the moment. The other aspect of her work stated that as a leader one should never forget the importance of formal and informal internal communication . We discussed the fact that a good leader always has his/ her "ear to the ground" and is aware, where possible, of the grapevine discussions.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Visit to the National Library
Posted for Saturday, 20 March
The visit to the National Library was impressive. The design of the “palace”, as it is called, was well thought out in terms of 21st Century design and form to function issues of the building. Planning for its existence well into the future, with provision for materials acquisition in terms of legal deposit, has been done for continued use for the next 150 years. Bravo to the architects and librarians who planned this facility. The speeches which launched library week, was generally plodding and ultimately exhausting (this may have been due to the fact that we were immersed in work for the past week without any REAL breaks). A golden theme that ran through all the speeches was something we had discussed in one of our sessions in “class” at Riverside 1, which is the freedom of expression. Whether it was the poets, the music or the talks, they all had an element of freedom of expression link to their talks, either directly or indirectly.
The visit to the National Library was impressive. The design of the “palace”, as it is called, was well thought out in terms of 21st Century design and form to function issues of the building. Planning for its existence well into the future, with provision for materials acquisition in terms of legal deposit, has been done for continued use for the next 150 years. Bravo to the architects and librarians who planned this facility. The speeches which launched library week, was generally plodding and ultimately exhausting (this may have been due to the fact that we were immersed in work for the past week without any REAL breaks). A golden theme that ran through all the speeches was something we had discussed in one of our sessions in “class” at Riverside 1, which is the freedom of expression. Whether it was the poets, the music or the talks, they all had an element of freedom of expression link to their talks, either directly or indirectly.
Thinking outside the box
Posted for Friday, 19 March
Marietjie Schutte’s presentation, what I saw of it (as I took ill half-way through), was informative and interesting. However, after some Immodium and rest for an hour, I was back at it again. The issue of trust in organisations was highlighted. Prof. Johannes Cronje’s session was the most interesting of the entire day. Delivered during the graveyard shift of the day and week, his humour was refreshing ... after a while you realized that he could just stand there and his appearance would be humorous, a bit like Rowan Atkinson (aka Mr. Bean). Anyway, along with the humour, came valuable information and insight into thinking outside the box. I discovered more abot my intellectual, personal and professional behaviour. I’m a “diverger” according to one of the tests we did for him. This was VERY insightful. It explained why my desk is ALWAYS a disaster. Why I have soo many ideas and think laterally ALL the time. I’m essentially an ideas person, but am so divergent that I need someone firmly grounded in reality to keep my feet on terra firma.
Marietjie Schutte’s presentation, what I saw of it (as I took ill half-way through), was informative and interesting. However, after some Immodium and rest for an hour, I was back at it again. The issue of trust in organisations was highlighted. Prof. Johannes Cronje’s session was the most interesting of the entire day. Delivered during the graveyard shift of the day and week, his humour was refreshing ... after a while you realized that he could just stand there and his appearance would be humorous, a bit like Rowan Atkinson (aka Mr. Bean). Anyway, along with the humour, came valuable information and insight into thinking outside the box. I discovered more abot my intellectual, personal and professional behaviour. I’m a “diverger” according to one of the tests we did for him. This was VERY insightful. It explained why my desk is ALWAYS a disaster. Why I have soo many ideas and think laterally ALL the time. I’m essentially an ideas person, but am so divergent that I need someone firmly grounded in reality to keep my feet on terra firma.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Our rights and how it relates to that of others rights
There were three fascinating presentations today. The attorney from the freedom of expression institute, Mbalenhle Cele, was a very informed presenter and the discussion was helpful, particularly with regard to the rights we have in the ambit of freedom of speech and as it relates to the constitution. The issue of freedom of speech relates directly to the violence and intimidation that racked my branch of CPUT earlier this year. The question that comes to mind is, at what point do we infringe on the rights of others when we believe that we need to exercise our rights to protest and express our unhappiness with the organisation we find ourselves in? Does one group of students have the right to disrupt the classes of others simply because they are aggrieved? Once again in this academy, we discussed the fundamental flaws of democracy, and I highlighted the issue that since the dawn of democracy in ancient Greece, its subsequent acceptance in Rome (to some extent) and in modern times in the form of the American republic and all over the world, political scholars have agreed about the fact that democracy is flawed. All these kinds of issues can be discussed on my blog and my facebook site to educate my students about their rights and that of others, especially in the light of what happened on our Nursing College campus in January, which was reminiscent of the mid-1980’s.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Organizational leadership: Maximizing Human Capital
Today we discussed more issues relating to leadership within organisations, presented by John Moalusi. Discussed such issues as Maximizing human capital, dealing specifically with The South African Labour Legislative Framework, Employment Equity, Performance Management, Conflict management, Training & skills development and Optimising Human Talent.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Leadership and all its interesting facets
John Moalusi has boundless energy. Founder of South Africa's first black consultancy. He talks incessantly about many interesting topics on leadership and leaders how they succeed and how they fail, and boy when they fail do they. We talked about leaders at home in government, in politics (there is a distinction) and in our various workplaces. We defined leadership, we discussed personal styles on leadership and I feel that I made a contribution. We talked about Tony O’Reilly, Madiba, Julius Malema (sorry that I place these two next to each other), Winnie and such interesting business figures as Jack Welsch and Warren Buffett. Lady Margaret Thatcher also featured, but rather ignominiously for once being on record as stating that she “Had no time for books!” As an information professional I find this statement irksome. Obama’s “Audacity of Hope” also made an appearance, with me stating that he wouldn’t have made it to the Presidency without Michelle! More of the same all day tomorrow which I will dutifully report on.
Monday, 15 March
Posed for date: Monday 15, March
John Tsebe’s talk setting the scene for locating libraries on the national agenda proved interesting and challenging for a non-lawyer. The talk placed the national library within a certain context and highlighted its importance for ALL librarians. What was the highlight of the talk was the fact that we in South Africa can be VERY proud of our heritage, our national infrastructure and our place on the African continent. We need not sit back and wait for the rest of the world to pull us along. We’re already doing it here down under. Rachel More was disappointing. She could have delivered her talk with more enthusiasm. Speaking from the podium for an hour put most of us to sleep. We expected more from our LIASA president. Archie Dick was a refreshing change from the previous dry monologue. Placing our profession firmly in the forefront of social responsibility, highlighting our ignominious past and bringing us to the present, where we have so much potential lurking in the shadows, was enlightening. The talk truly exuded hope for our profession. Prof Bothma’s enthusiasm really rubbed off. He is truly the type of academic whom I admire. His keen intellect, yet humble nature combined with a socially aware bent, was also refreshing.
John Tsebe’s talk setting the scene for locating libraries on the national agenda proved interesting and challenging for a non-lawyer. The talk placed the national library within a certain context and highlighted its importance for ALL librarians. What was the highlight of the talk was the fact that we in South Africa can be VERY proud of our heritage, our national infrastructure and our place on the African continent. We need not sit back and wait for the rest of the world to pull us along. We’re already doing it here down under. Rachel More was disappointing. She could have delivered her talk with more enthusiasm. Speaking from the podium for an hour put most of us to sleep. We expected more from our LIASA president. Archie Dick was a refreshing change from the previous dry monologue. Placing our profession firmly in the forefront of social responsibility, highlighting our ignominious past and bringing us to the present, where we have so much potential lurking in the shadows, was enlightening. The talk truly exuded hope for our profession. Prof Bothma’s enthusiasm really rubbed off. He is truly the type of academic whom I admire. His keen intellect, yet humble nature combined with a socially aware bent, was also refreshing.
Personality analysis: HBDI
Posted for date: Sunday 14, March
Ann de Boer has amazing energy. Her enthusiasm for her work, her being as committed as she is, simply invigorates one. She knows how to get her audience going. I wish I could have a fraction of her energy!! Not only was the HBDI personal profile a fresh take on my personality, but it also shed light on how I work, learn and interact with my colleagues, family and people in general. Strongly in the blue quadrant, highly analytical and enthused by logical, quantitative thinking, I was somewhat pleasantly surprised. Yet, when stressed, I opt for the “D” quadrant with metaphoric, integrative, visual, synthesising and conceptual thinking. I need to stretch into the “RED” quadrant more so than I tend to do.
The Campbell Leadership descriptor tool was also eye-opening. I was a bit insecure about my management and leadership styles, but this gave me more, revised insight into how I live, work and play. Very useful!!
Ann de Boer has amazing energy. Her enthusiasm for her work, her being as committed as she is, simply invigorates one. She knows how to get her audience going. I wish I could have a fraction of her energy!! Not only was the HBDI personal profile a fresh take on my personality, but it also shed light on how I work, learn and interact with my colleagues, family and people in general. Strongly in the blue quadrant, highly analytical and enthused by logical, quantitative thinking, I was somewhat pleasantly surprised. Yet, when stressed, I opt for the “D” quadrant with metaphoric, integrative, visual, synthesising and conceptual thinking. I need to stretch into the “RED” quadrant more so than I tend to do.
The Campbell Leadership descriptor tool was also eye-opening. I was a bit insecure about my management and leadership styles, but this gave me more, revised insight into how I live, work and play. Very useful!!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Ann De Boer and the HBDI
POSTING FOR WORK DONE ON SUNDAY 14 March, 2010:
Ann De Boer and the HBDI personal profile provided fascinating and realistic insight into my personality and the way I conduct my intellectual and pesonal life. The HBDI profile located me strongly in the BLUE quadrant which showed that I am more analytical, quantitative, logical, tecnical and factual. However when these strengths are under threat I move distinctly into the yellow quadrant where I distinctly display metaphoric, integraive, visual, synthesising and conceptual qualities. Ann De Boer's upbeat, energetic and somewhat extrovert personality was a real plus for the day.
The Campbell leadership descriptor tool was a real surprise. I definitely underestimated my abilities as a leader.
Ann De Boer and the HBDI personal profile provided fascinating and realistic insight into my personality and the way I conduct my intellectual and pesonal life. The HBDI profile located me strongly in the BLUE quadrant which showed that I am more analytical, quantitative, logical, tecnical and factual. However when these strengths are under threat I move distinctly into the yellow quadrant where I distinctly display metaphoric, integraive, visual, synthesising and conceptual qualities. Ann De Boer's upbeat, energetic and somewhat extrovert personality was a real plus for the day.
The Campbell leadership descriptor tool was a real surprise. I definitely underestimated my abilities as a leader.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Saturday 13 March: My Expectations of the Academy
I hope to network with and learn from other leaders in the field of Librarianship. My area of expertise in the field of Librarianship is in Information literacy education of Engineering and Nursing Students. I hope to come away with new leadership skills which will further enhance my abilities as a leader and realise the potential of my library. Some questions I want to reflect on while I'm here are and things I want to change which are outcomes of the course:
1) What kind of a leader am I? I believe that I need to be a more assertive leader and communicate more with the staff through passing along decisions made at a higher level. Communication has been a problem from my side. In this respect I need to be clearer when giving an instruction and delegating work.
2) I have identified that I am more of a diplomat than a manager and lead through diplomacy, given my unique circumstances at work. Allow me to elaborate: I manage a branch library of CPUT, the Nursing college library in Athlone. All the teaching staff are paid by the Provincial Government of the Western Cape (PGWC). CPUT has an agency agreement with the Nursing College. All the students are CPUT students. The staff do not all have access to the electronic sources of the library subscribes to such as online databases and e-books. How do I go about navigating these two cumbersome bureaucracies? How do I provide staff of the nursing college access to my e-resources without overstepping the copyright laws and lead in this area?
3)I definitely want to create a wiki and place all my papers complete to date, 6 of them, on the wiki along with completed links to the important keywords so that the documents can be searched on the web.
4) I also need to set up a blog addressing information literacy issues on my campus. My library users will be able to access information on a daily basis on various developments in Nursing and Medicine.
5) I have already set up a facebook site for my library. I just did this today, and it needs to be developed. I can use this as a forum to inform my students/ users about various developments in the library.
1) What kind of a leader am I? I believe that I need to be a more assertive leader and communicate more with the staff through passing along decisions made at a higher level. Communication has been a problem from my side. In this respect I need to be clearer when giving an instruction and delegating work.
2) I have identified that I am more of a diplomat than a manager and lead through diplomacy, given my unique circumstances at work. Allow me to elaborate: I manage a branch library of CPUT, the Nursing college library in Athlone. All the teaching staff are paid by the Provincial Government of the Western Cape (PGWC). CPUT has an agency agreement with the Nursing College. All the students are CPUT students. The staff do not all have access to the electronic sources of the library subscribes to such as online databases and e-books. How do I go about navigating these two cumbersome bureaucracies? How do I provide staff of the nursing college access to my e-resources without overstepping the copyright laws and lead in this area?
3)I definitely want to create a wiki and place all my papers complete to date, 6 of them, on the wiki along with completed links to the important keywords so that the documents can be searched on the web.
4) I also need to set up a blog addressing information literacy issues on my campus. My library users will be able to access information on a daily basis on various developments in Nursing and Medicine.
5) I have already set up a facebook site for my library. I just did this today, and it needs to be developed. I can use this as a forum to inform my students/ users about various developments in the library.
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