2005Summer.Q5.Response

Summer 2005 Question Five

Digital Library for a School Library A. Definition
 * organized collections of digital information for a particular community of users designed to support the information needs of these users

B. Comparison of a traditional library and a digital library __Traditional Library__ __Digital Library__
 * formal learning
 * physical collection
 * informal learning
 * immediate access to range of materials
 * just-in-time learning
 * flexible
 * up-to-date information
 * organized to particular uses
 * helps breaks down barriers for people with disabilities
 * video and audio
 * screen readers
 * refreshable Braille displays
 * reader can become author

C. Challenges __management challenge-__-need a skilled professional to organize, maintain the collection. This person needs to be able to coach and scaffold the site for a group of diverse learners. __technical challenge__--digital divide--some students do not have access at home and there is also a second divide between those who are knowledgeable about searching and those who don't. Other challenges include: how to archive the information, storage of digital information, and the permanency of the collection. __Service challenge__--how to provide students the skills needed to access and utilize the information effectively when they are not at school