Assignment 6

This is the URL for Assignment 6

http://www.pitt.edu/~nds28/Nan's%20Index.html

Muddiest point 22/11

Does citing an article increase the webpage’s probability of being retrieved by a crawler? I’m looking at this in the context of a site’s 'hubness' .

Comment links-Unit 11

November 20, 2010 7:27 AM

Reading notes_Unit 11: Web Search and OAI Protocol

Web Search Engines: Pt1&2

While reading the article and considering the data processing potential of today’s search engines I was reminded of Moore’s Law and capacity capabilities. The content was fairly easy to follow and it clarified some points for me on the search processes of search engines. I found the section on spam rejection to be especially interesting; the ‘policing task’ seems to exist everywhere and spam evolves like everything else.

The second article dealt with the more involved task of actually processing queries, the speed needed for crawling through the W3 is incredible and makes you realize how vast the network really is. The use of caching, which increases capability and reduces cost is something that really emphasizes the amount of separate processes that take place behind the scenes in the www.

OAI

The aims and goals of the OAI, as is relate to metadata harvesting, will have far reaching consequences for digitally mined data on information. The fact that this will allow search engines to trawl parts of the ‘hidden web’ indicates exposure to previously hidden information sources. The implication for libraries is a deeper information mine for user consumption and a more extensive resource pool.

The Deep Web:

In order to maximize information sources we would then require better searching tools, there are constant upgrades but from the statistics quoted there seems to be a disconnect between possible sources and those actually being unearthed.  

Muddiest point for 11/15

No muddiest point

Comment links for Unit 10

November 11, 2010 6:00 PM

November 11, 2010 6:10 PM

Muddiest Point for 11/8

Labs are being set up to help with assignment 6, how will they be structured for online students? Can I use Skype to interact for the session?

Reading Notes for unit 10

Digital Libraries

Most worthwhile endeavors are challenging and fraught with hurdles, creating the ideal resource access repository is probably no different. With so much effort from so many quarters the digital research environment can only get better, maybe not perfect, but definitely better.

Dewey meets Turing

An interesting insight into the still developing but permanent relationship between the fields of Librarianship and Computer science and the influence each one is having on the other. That the contemporary librarian has to straddle some of the roles of the computer savvy has added a new dimension to the perception of what librarianship now entails and has, no doubt, removed layers of dust from our collective image.

Institutional Repositories

The move away from traditional scholarly publishing avenues has come about for a variety of reasons. That educational institutions have undertaken the task seems to be a move in the right direction since it affords greater control of the entire process. But what are the long term implications for ensuring its continuance and persistence; will the task become too burdensome financially and technologically? What happens then, to decades of intellectual property that mankind can ill afford to lose?    

Muddiest Point for 11/1

Muddiest point:

In the lecture, in answer to a question, it was stated that search results depend on two factors: The information being indexed and the ranking algorithm.

Is the ranking algorithm based on  popularity (the no. of hits the site/ page gets) or content relevant to the query?

Comments for Unit 9

November 3, 2010 8:26 PM 

November 5, 2010 11:12 AM

November 5, 2010 11:22 AM

Unit 9- Reading notes

Unit 9- Reading notes

Introducing the Extensible Markup Language (XML)

-   An interesting insight into the pre-internet days and the creativity involved in information   dissemination.

A survey of XML standards: Part 1

-          XML is the standardized platform language for the web environment.

-          There are multiple facets to this language with an ever increasing range of permutations that allow for flexibility and increased capabilities and adaptability.

Extending your Markup

-          Much advancement in web language development has led to XML and the ability to better manage information.

-          Including different elements within the language structure affords greater representation of data and allows the incorporation of more information.

-          XML structure contains many extensions that lead to more diverse usage of the language; it is a step-up to previous language potential. XML extends HTML’s linking possibilities by involving XLink, XPointer and XPath.

-          New developments will further enhance the capabilities of XML.

XML Schema Tutorial

-          A helpful hands-on tool that is informative as well as interactive.

Assignment 5- Collection Building in Koha ILS

Link to virtual bookshelf:

http://upitt01-staff.kwc.kohalibrary.com/cgi-bin/koha/virtualshelves/shelves.pl?viewshelf=77

User Name: NDS28

Name of virtual bookshelf: Teaching Reading.

No muddiest point / a comment.

I had known that there is a layering to the information contained in the WWW, I hadn’t realized that there was such a huge disparity in what is available freely and what is stored in the deep web, that require a password or other permissions in order become accessible, and is therefore shrouded. Incredible!

Unit 8 Comment links

October 28, 2010 8:19 PM

October 28, 2010 8:24 PM

October 28, 2010 8:29 PM

Unit 8 Reading notes

W3schools HTML Tutorial

The step by step tutorial is great, at least I think I understand the basic functions and I don’t feel as intimidated as before. The ‘try it yourself’ really made a difference for me; this will take some more practice for me though!

HTML Cheatsheet

This really puts things in a nutshell and it assumes some pre-knowledge of the process, a good supplement for the W3schools tutorial.

W3 School Cascading Style Sheet tutorial:

I think I’ll have to be more confident about the HTML tutorial before I try to modify, again, the ‘try it yourself’ really helped.

Beyond HTML

The ability to utilize web-authoring skills to create an environment that caters to the needs of website users is an important consideration in this study. The importance of standards and a certain level of conformity is required if users are to comfortably navigate within the realm of the web offerings of a site in order to find the content that they require.

Selecting a Content Management system depends on many factors with prime considerations being placed on cost and system usability. Proprietary and Open Source systems are both viable options as well as creating home-grown ones. In this case the latter was the preferred choice because there was sufficient in-house skill and more importantly, the need for controlling the eventual end product.

The development of an indigenous Content Management system is a lengthy and time-consuming project that relies on the skills and efforts of many. However, the satisfaction of developing a system that is specially customized to suit the needs of the users probably makes it all worthwhile and represents the ‘beyond’ of the learning process.

Assignment 4 - Personal Bibliographic Mangement System

This is the URL to my Library in CiteULike;

http://www.citeulike.org/user/ndevisirju

Comments- Unit 7

    October 21, 2010 6:22 PM  

    October 21, 2010 6:33 PM 

             October 21, 2010 9:41 PM 

        

Reading Notes for Unit 7

How stuff works:

The history of the internet and its subsequent blanket of global communications with cables and wires emphasize the impact it has had on the world. The fact that connectivity moves from a few to billions in a short space of time can be a very humbling prospect for an individual user. LANs can migrate into CANs, MANs and WAN’s and these expand exponentially to eventually include the WWW. It is interesting to note just how this connectivity works and the level of dependence it has generated within the global populace. The article is easily understandable and it is evident that the writer kept the technicality to a necessary level so as not to scare off readers. I found the sections on DNS and URLs to be very enlightening and the coverage of ‘caching’ and ‘client /server’ relationships very informative.

Dismantling ILS :

Converting to an automated library system is costly, time consuming and sometimes nerve wracking even in a small library with less than ten thousand items. It took months before we could operate confidently and comfortably in the knowledge that we could handle minor glitches as they arose. This article jarred me out of my relative complacency with the information that unless I am able to change with system alterations I will be left behind and my interaction with outside resources compromised.

It is unreasonable to expect that the same system will serve the needs of disparate institutions and library systems will evolve to become more marketable and competitive. Interoperability and scalability are two elements that are important in ILS and so far these have not been adequately addressed hence the proliferation of options open to libraries. Though competition is a good and healthy thing in that the strongest, and hopefully the best, emerges victorious, in this instance it may create isolation for those libraries that are unable to adapt or acquire at the same rate as others. If legacy systems are being dismantled to make way for improved models there are probably implications for hardware requirements as well, and that is a costly time consuming process. 

Sergey Brin and Larry Page on Google

This talk is a fascinating exposé on the extent to which Google impacts the world. The use of fiber optics and satellites to transfer data and the traffic it generates is mind boggling. A great sales pitch for the Google foundation and its philanthropic endeavors as well as some interesting insights into how Google functions- complete with employee laundry humor!

Muddiest point for FT Weekend

Can I increase my computer's buffer capacity for streaming? When viewing panopto I get cut off quite often, it's frustrating, time consuming and affects the continuity of the lecture.

Unit 6 - Comment links

October 9, 2010 6:02 PM

October 9, 2010 6:08 PM

October 9, 2010 9:17 PM

Reading Notes for Unit 6 : Computer Networks, Wireless Networks

Local Area Network:

The development of networks/networking has impacted the field of computing and the use of computer accessories by allowing systems to share these resources - printers, scanners and storage space as well as software. This is, of course, a very cost effective occurrence. The advancements from twisted pair wire connection to coaxial and fiber optic cables have certainly reduced the frustration level for those of us who were weaned on the earlier products. I have only recently experienced the advantages of fiber optics and DSL and it is vastly different to what I usually have to work with. The article also clarified some points related to classification of networks and the determination of its topology type. I had erroneously thought that the physical arrangement determined the nomenclature however; I see that it depends on the logical relationships between the units that rule the respective network.

Computer network :

The fact that networks are labeled according to its size, function and purpose is not new to me however, the fact that my system at home has its own classification (PAN) was. It is interesting to note that scalability moves from the one unit utility to the intranet and then onto the mighty internet with all sorts of permutations included within.

Common types of computer networks (youtube):

Basically a repetition of the computer network article but interesting still, the one entitled ‘How a computer works’ was informative in that the simulations of what takes place to move data or information from one place to the other were really appropriate. The robotics helped in explaining the process in a very literal way.

RFID in Libraries:

The possibilities of RFID in libraries is clearly enumerated, some areas will be heavily impacted whilst others will remain virtually unaffected.  Security concerns aside, it sounds great and will take away some of the monotonous and time consuming tasks that librarians have to perform. ‘Check out’ and ‘inventory’ are the two prime targets here and very few will argue with the possibilities in those areas.  Of course there is also the cost effectiveness of its inclusion to consider as well as its viability for low traffic libraries; still, it is a possibility worth exploring. The less time spent on routine tasks means more that can be channeled into the non-routine ones.

Muddiest Point for 10/4

No Muddiest point for this class

Assignment 3 _ URLs

This is the URL to the video:
http://screencast.com/t/NjY5Zjk3ZTM

urls to annotated images:
  1.http://www.flickr.com/photos/53981515@N02/5043751811/

 2. http://www.flickr.com/photos/53981515@N02/5044392938/

 3. http://www.flickr.com/photos/53981515@N02/5043781377/

 4. http://www.flickr.com/photos/53981515@N02/5045309207/

 5. http://www.flickr.com/photos/53981515@N02/5045372037/

Week5- Comment Links

September 29, 2010 5:03 PM

September 29, 2010 8:12 PM

September 29, 2010 5:24 PM

Unit 5 Reading Notes

Unit 5 Reading Notes

Database:

There are different types of databases linked to the type of computer systems they support, however all databases are structured so that they can integrate with others through the Open Database Connectivity (OBDC). Operational databases are business /organization oriented with modules catering to all aspects of the organization’s needs. They are therefore structured to suit particular groups of end users.

Indexing is an important feature of databases since it impacts the time required for running a query, however, maintenance of it slows down the system because of the many possibilities it requires for accurate indexing. Database replication allows multiple copies of a database on different computers for increased user access. Different levels of authorization are utilized to control system accessibility; databases generally require authorization for access depending on the target user.

Introduction to Metadata:

Data about data, Metadata is significant for classifying, describing, locating and creating data with a view to aid in the location and utilization of same. All information objects have three features- content, context and structure. Library metadata is governed by rules and regulation of a specific governing body such as AACR2 or LCSH. It has been recognized that no one single metadata standard can cover all types of information objects especially since data and information is increasing at such a fast pace, never-the-less, a structured metadata system is vital for creating widespread access to usable information packages. This means also, that the use of this structured metadata system would have to be taught to users or it will not serve its intended purpose.

There have been an increase in user created metadata and though these generally serve a particular group or community (folksonomies), these community specific labeling are proving to be a success even outside of their grouping especially with those who are familiar with the semantics of the grouping. This has given rise to metadata that is based on the objects creation or origin and the target user with consideration for the user capability.

All information objects have a life cycle ranging from creation to obsolescence?

Metadata is crucial to effective data management.

Dublin Core Data Model:

1.       An international effort that attempts to create consensus in resource management/metadata creation.

2.       Aims to apply a ‘core set of semantics’ that will cater for all types of resources and its descriptors.

3.       There is still a lot of work to be done with this ‘work in progress”.

Muddiest point for 9/27

If a movie/video was saved in a particular format previously can it be easily transferred and stored, for example a wmv as a swf? Would there be any requirements other than having access to the new format.

Links to comments on other people’s posts for wk4

http://att16.blogspot.com/2010/09/muddiest-point_23.html?showComment=1285381115848#c5743513279669031656

http://jonas4444.blogspot.com/2010/09/week-4-reading-notes.html?showComment=1285381651245#c1935331341637454964

http://skdhuth.blogspot.com/2010/09/week-4-notes_21.html?showComment=1285382280907#c1867739935089736195

Week 4 Readings - Comments

Data Compression

An informative and extensive script on data compression, the most important things I learnt are;-

1.       There are different types of compression possibilities therefore the user must be cautious in selecting the most appropriate one for the job at hand.

2.       Compressed files have to be decompressed before being used, this means that both sender and receiver must have and be able to use the required tools.

3.       Lossless compression is totally reversible whilst lossy incurs some content contraction in the process.

4.       Though compression saves storage space it requires additional processing before it can be reused, the implication here is that immediate use of content is compromised somewhat.

5.       Streaming, the way we look at lectures, is not true streaming since it is not live.

6.       Data compression usage in libraries will cut back on storage space but would that exclude usage of content by those who don’t have or cannot use decompression software. In addition, will loss of content, if applicable, be advertised so that the user will be forewarned?

Imaging Pittsburgh

1.       This article reminded me of a tour I did for another class where Pittsburgh then and now was the focus.

2.       The need to preserve and share the past is not just a good thing it is necessary to inculcate an appreciation of what was and what is.

3.       Many skills from disparate contributors are required for a task of this complexity.

4.       Metadata's importance is underscored; it is the thread that links the user to the information source.

5.       The availability of this content online will no doubt impact both access and usage.

YouTube and Libraries 

1.       Utilizing YouTube’s extensive reach has great possibilities for libraries; many have already jumped on board and are having some success. In addition to those listed in the article I came across one that is close to home (for me). Check it out!

http://www.youtube.com/user/nalistrinidad?feature=mhw5#p/a/u/2/AKffmILijZA

Muddiest point for 9/20

 Parts of files are stored in different places on the storage disks in a computer, what happens to files when sectors go bad/are corrupted? Is the entire file lost or just the part that is in the bad sector?

Unit 5 Reading - Comments

Unit 5 Reading - Comments

Database:

There are different types of databases linked to the type of computer systems they support, however all databases are structured so that they can integrate with others through the Open Database Connectivity (OBDC). Operational databases are business /organization oriented with modules catering to all aspects of the organization’s needs. They are therefore structured to suit particular groups of end users.

Indexing is an important feature of databases since it impacts the time required for running a query, however, maintenance of it slows down the system because of the many possibilities it requires for accurate indexing. Database replication allows multiple copies of a database on different computers for increased user access. Different levels of authorization are utilized to control system accessibility; databases generally require authorization for access depending on the target user.

Introduction to Metadata:

Data about data, Metadata is significant for classifying, describing, locating and creating data with a view to aid in the location and utilization of same. All information objects have three features- content, context and structure. Library metadata is governed by rules and regulation of a specific governing body such as AACR2 or LCSH. It has been recognized that no one single metadata standard can cover all types of information objects especially since data and information is increasing at such a fast pace, never-the-less, a structured metadata system is vital for creating widespread access to usable information packages. This means also, that the use of this structured metadata system would have to be taught to users or it will not serve its intended purpose.

There have been an increase in user created metadata and though these generally serve a particular group or community (folksonomies), these community specific labeling are proving to be a success even outside of their grouping especially with those who are familiar with the semantics of the grouping. This has given rise to metadata that is based on the objects creation or origin and the target user with consideration for the user capability.

All information objects have a life cycle ranging from creation to obsolescence?

Metadata is crucial to effective data management.

Dublin Core Data Model:

1.       An international effort that attempts to create consensus in resource management/metadata creation.

2.       Aims to apply a ‘core set of semantics’ that will cater for all types of resources and its descriptors.

3.       There is still a lot of work to be done with this ‘work in progress”.

Assignment 2- Link to Flickr

Hello,

This is the Link to my image collection. Enjoy!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/53981515@N02/?saved=1

Links to comments for week 3 readings

http://amybeeslisblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/week-three-readings.html?showComment=1284596404850#c5553301664169580298


http://lostscribe459.blogspot.com/2010/09/week-3-reading-notes-software.html?showComment=1284597066898#c6171541259906392042

Muddiest point for 9/13

No muddy point, the questions I had were answered in class. The lecture itself was clear since I did the readings before viewing the lecture

Reading Notes - week 3

Introduction to Linux:

I had already done readings on this for a previous class so that the material was familiar. The following points are my take-away from the article.

1.     The impact of UNIX on interoperability is profound; Linux is a free OS, that is, no proprietary provider fees.

2.     Open source software is being touted as being of a better quality because development input is wider ranging than the not-for-free software.

3.     There is a Linux OS to suit every need and there is readily available help on the internet if required. Still, many people pay for software, hence the success of software providers like Microsoft. Is it that we feel that it is not reliable because it is free, or, is that some members of the computing  population feel more comfortable with the after sale support offered with proprietary packages?

Mac OS:

The history was interesting noting mergers and collaborations; the use of pre-existing open source software to create a proprietary system was an eye opener since I thought that the use of this type (free) meant that the resulting product would also be free. Some of the technical information was confusing whilst others clarified certain points eg. Java and the many uses of it in a variety of electronic devices. The conclusion was the most helpful, in it the author compared his three most eligible systems for client computing. In his Linux statements he says, “No. Not today. Not yet”. I felt that was probably what a lot of computer users would say when confronted with adopting this OS, “not now, when I’m ready for it”.

Mac OSX (Wikipedia)

A lot of repetition from the previous article but I recognized that the system is a dynamic one continually evolving to be more versatile, user-friendly and ultimately more marketable.

Update on Windows Roadmap

Totally relevant information in this article since I am currently using Windows Vista Home Premium on my PC, I was heartened to know that support will continue for a few more years and that upgrading to windows 7 is not immediately mandatory. It seems that as soon as I get comfortable with one OS a new one looms, lifelong learning is not an option it is a survival technique!

Muddiest point -Week1

The most confusing thing about this lecture is figuring out when each item is due. This can be further clarified.

Week 2 Reading Notes / muddiest point

Computer Hardware: Though I am familiar with the hardware I use on a daily basis I found the article explained their functions clearly and effectively, I shall be using some of the explanations in my Library classes next term and of couse the source will be sited so that students can visit and get more details if needed.

Moore's Law (article and video): I first came into contact with this concept whilst doing the impact of technology from a management/costing point of view. The fact that capacity doubles every eighteen months  or sooner has implications for cost projections. Sadly however, it has been found that the savings derived from this always seems to be wanted in some other supporting expense to ensure that the technology functions. On a more personal note, taking into consideration the fact that technology's obsolesence is also affected by Moore's Law, I wonder if the price for the latest smartphone is really worth it? Hmmmm.

Computer History Museum: Enjoyed the tour and may I say thanks to digitization that I was able to be part of this virtual tour and 'see' the items on the marketing brochures in the collection. Those machines were really huge, I will not complain about logging my laptop around again, I guess it's all about perspective huh?

Muddiest Point: I am aware that there is the perception that digitization will negatively affect the need for librarians, in Trinidad I think it will increase the need, for guidance and research skills especially for non-print media. Is the fear only with those who are not up to par with the electronic side of librarianship?



Links to week 2 Comments:

http://pittlis2600.blogspot.com/2010/09/week-three-reading-notes.html?showComment=1284598083808#c2463415441622108104

http://kel2600.blogspot.com/2010/09/reading-notes-september-13-2010.html?showComment=1284599023893#c666765032756924416

http://maj66.blogspot.com/2010/09/wikipedia-articles.html?showComment=1284253844092#c4745464930538065859

Reading notes- Week 1

Information technology literacy and information literacy are divergent issues with clear overlaps since the understanding of one is necessary to fully appreciate the other. Schools' curricula seems to fall short in adequately preparing students with the requirements for navigating real life issues in this rapidly evolving digital environment, but where does it really end? Do student's realise the need and implications of lifelong learning? Where does the school's responsibility end and an individual's quest for knowledge begin? What happens if it doesn't kick in and who is ultimately responsible. As the writer points out thre is "...the need for continued updating of these skills throughout one's adult life..."

Content not container- When information is required format is immaterial; a book, audio recording or DVD should not impinge on the reality of content. That digital is sometimes more portable, accessible or suited to the users taste is of little consequence when the transfer of information and the creation of knowledge is the prime objective. The fact that digital and electronic transfer of information is a rapidly increasing preference points to the adaptability and versatility of the species and the delineating generational stamp which may well be the trademark of this era.

The sustainability of a high-tech library is what comes to my mind after reading the article by Jason Vaughan, after all the initial costs it seems that the whole thing has to be constantly upgraded and reviewed to keep abreast of changes and advances.Is it feasible for everyone or is it something to aim for in the distant future when money is more available for trained staff, equipment, resources.......

Links to wk 1 Comments

http://sek80.blogspot.com/2010/09/hands-on-point-machine-adware-cleaning.html?showComment=1283913657761#c8371860059870007046

http://sek80.blogspot.com/2010/09/muddiest-point.html?showComment=1283556584779#c5576658389770682274