Tuesday, 6 November 2007

Week 8: Online Applications and Tools continued

#19 Discovering Web 2.0 tools
For this exercise I decided to explore the Music category of the 2007 Web 2.0 Awards. In my learning 2.0 journey I had read reports that PANDORA was a good music site, but unfortunately access outside of the U.S. is restricted at this point in time. Therefore, I went on to explore the next music site recommended via the awards, www.last.fm

I had terrific fun setting up a profile and creating a playlist of music. I have embedded my playlist so if you are interested to know my taste in music, turn your speakers on and listen! (I'd recommend headphones at work).

Whilst I enjoyed this exercise, and am thrilled to listen to music I like emanating from my blog (my favourite feature), it did take me some time to work on this task. 'Play and learn' really is the best way to explore this music site (I can also highly recommend FAQ for assistance).

Useful features of last.fm? Social networking is evident in that you can join Groups and connect with other members who share similar tastes in music. You can also edit artist wikis and tap into an Events calender for further information. Once you start selecting or listening to music, other artists are recommended. I only accessed free features, but if you subscribe there are other options available.

Reference to a Library environment? End user training of Web 2.0 technologies could include exploration of online music tools. I have seen many of our younger patrons listening to music online, so I now have more of an idea of what they are doing.

Ultimately I explored this tool to learn something new and fun and because it's a tool I'm likely to use.

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