Welcome! 

My name is Amanda Osborne.  I am the Librarian at Oxford High School in Oxford, MS.  I have served over 20 years in Mississippi public schools as a school librarian and English teacher. My love for reading and learning has shaped my life and career.  I believe that knowing a little bit about a lot of things and having the curiosity to learn more makes for a good librarian. Currently, I am working toward an MLIS degree at the University of Southern Mississippi, specializing in emerging technology.  The 21st century library is an exciting place to be today! Navigating the ever-changing digital world with my school community really charges me up! I strive to provide a technology rich library environment that teaches digital literacy in our ever expanding informational world.  My goal for this blog is two-fold: 1) Showcase the AMAZING ways emerging technology can be used in a school library (any library, really) 2) Describe the strategies I use to create and deliver effective tech rich programs in my library.

 

BUT (you know there is always one), there's more to emerging technology than simply owning the equipment.  The tools must also be incorporated into a library program/service that meets the needs of the patrons.  While the technology itself may be really cool, learning how to effectively use it is an entirely different thing.  It has taken years of work.  I started by hosting programs featuring other people who owned the equipment.  I discovered how technology engages students and teachers, so I got deeper and deeper involved with it.  I use the "wow" factor as leverage.  I may struggle to get students to read a book, but they are more than willing to play with VR.  When I get them engaged and excited, I talk books or other library related topics.  Many great collaborations have been born staring at the 3D printer. 

 

My technology integration is modeled on what is happening in makerspaces/idea labs, in academic libraries.  It is important for students to develop their digital literacy skills as so many fields of study and careers now use these machines to develop and manufacture things.  To date, I have used the technology featured here with all levels of classes from AP to special eduction.  I have taught lessons in English, AP European History, U.S. History, biology, engineering, African American history, Holocaust history, AP U.S. History, geography, Earth and space science, marketing, French, Spanish, and ESL classes. In short, the OHS Library is plugged in, powered on, and CHARGED UP!