CLIC’s Mobile Technologies and Apps event was held in the bright and colourful, recently refurbished, Canton Public Library. Simon Rhys-Philips (CAVAC) began the morning’s sessions with an Introduction to mobile technology, outlining the basics of: What is an App?
The second presentation was led by MariAnn Hilliar (Cardiff University): Keep Calm: there is an App for that! MariAnn outlined the various areas of leisure and workplace apps available; for reading, note-taking, entertainment, shopping, organising, catching the bus, info searching and more…Some familiar names, others new that we will possibly be checking out soon! As well as offering handy tips on using different types of apps and the the devices they are accessible on. We finished the session with a group discussion where the group shared examples of “my favourite app” and why they liked it: check out Topsy to search for tweets, Socrative smart student response system using educational games and Cardiff Bus so no need to run for your bus!!
Jason Wicks (Cardiff Metropolitan University): The development of the Cardiff Met App – This session demonstrated how apps are currently being used in HE Institutions, detailing how the app was developed, and the various features available. MyCardiffMet app offers students quick means to view their university details, check PC availability, access VLE Blackboard and soon email link too. As well as including useful maps for new students to finding their way around it also provides easy access to the Library Services, facility to pay their overdue fines and the popular laundry monitor!
Staying with HE, Emma Harrison (University of South Wales): The library in our hands: using iPads to supplement library support for students at the University of South Wales. Emma discussed examples and benefits of being a “mobile librarian”; how her and her colleagues are continuing the development of roving librarians using ipads both in the library and venturing to other department buildings on campus to help students with library resources and queries. Staff are now using tools like Facetime to communicate from different parts of the building saving time and confusion.
Many thanks to all the speakers, Simon, Mari Ann, Jason and Emma for their time and contributions; to Canton Public Library staff for their lovely hospitality and also to those of you who attended, your participation was much appreciated.
CLIC will be planning future events so please check our website: http://www.cliclibraries.co.uk/
Rebecca A. Evans, Cardiff Metropolitan University
CLIC: Cardiff Libraries in Cooperation 