CPD23: Thing 6 - Online Networks and Thing 7 - Real Life Networks

Week 5

Thing 6: Online Networks and Thing 7: Real-Life Networks

"Social Networking"...the term keeps popping in every now and then! And that's the essence of it..we cannot   do away with socializing - be it apparent or virtual. Networking enriches your growth, if practiced in a meaningful manner. In the olden times, we networked ( is equal to socialized) with our family and friends at festivals and get-togethers. However, it assumed a new meaning with the onset of online networks. The inherent meaning remains unchanged, although new dimensions creep in! Having said that, let me become a bit more professional:
LinkedIn: Yes, I am on LinkedIn.
Facebook: I and my library - both are on FB.
LISPN, LAT and CILIP: I am not a member of any of these groups but let me tell you about a few on this side of the World:

LIS-Forum: A first of its kind in my knowledge in the series of online networks! Since 1995

NMLIS (New Millennium LIS Professionals):  Since 1999. Group owner: Dr. N. Laxman Rao. Post messages to: nmlis@yahoogroups.com

MLOSC (Maharashtra Librarians Online Study Circle): An excellent initiative by Shri. Ajay Kamble (Annasaheb Vartak Arts, Commerce, Science College, Vasai Rd.) and Shri. Bhupendra Bansod (PVDT College of Education, SNDT University, Mumbai). Post messages to mlosc@googlegroups.com

LM_NET: Although intended primarily for school librarians, the give and take of information is a must visit. One of my favorites indeed!

Another great example is that of WikiEducator. WikiEducator has been conducting several online workshops for the benefit of those who wish to dive in the open learning environment. I have recently completed their EL4C53 workshop and attained the status of a proud Wiki Buddy.
I have currently enrolled for their OLC4Ed (Open Content Licensing for Educators) free workshop. Wikieducator gives us an opportunity to collaborate (network) with our workshop facilitators and co-learners from around the World and so I do not hesitate to include it in my list of Online Networks.

- Chinmayee Bhange