Frequently Asked Questions:

How does this online learning program work?  This is a self-directed discovery program which encourages participants to take control of their own learning and to utilize their lifelong learning skills through exploration, collaboration, and play. Participants are encouraged to work together and share with each other their discoveries, techniques and "how to's" both in person and through online interactions.  MSL staffers Lauren McMullen (lmcmullen@mtlib.org), Suzanne Reymer (sreymer@mtlib.org), Maggie Meredith (mmeredith@mt.gov)and Tracy Cook (tcook@mtlib.org) are also available to answer questions from registered participants.  

Is this program open to all Montana library staff?  This program is open to ALL library staff regardless of position and status (full and part time). If you are not a staff member of a Montana library, you are welcome to follow along on your own.

How long do I have to complete the program and how much time will it take?  The spring round of the 2009 Challenge will kick off on March 16 and will run through June 1st.  This includes 5 lessons which are offered according to the following shedule (you can also see the program calendar):

March 16 - March 29:  Getting Started - Registration and preliminary assignments

March 30 - April 12: Communications 2.0 - IM, text messaging, Skype, webconferencing and more

April 13 - April 26: Twitter

April 27 - May 10: Social Networking Sites

May 11 - May 24: Tagging + RSS = Information Power

May 25 - June 1:  Discovering Web 2.0 tools

The program will continue to be available after after the official end on June 1, but MSL staff members will not track assignments after the closing date.  Since this is a self-directed learning program, you decide how much time you need to complete the lessons.  Some participants may choose to devote one hour per week; it can be broken up into 15 minutes a day.  Library Directors are encouraged to give staff work time to complete the program.  Participants who do the program at home or on their own time may elect to spend more time with the lessons.

How do I track my progress in the program?  All participants in the Challenge are required to have a blog which will be used to complete some of your assignments.  This year, you will also have the opportunity to Twitter and join a social network as part of your lesson assignments.  If you are seeking CE credit, MSL staffers will track your progress in completing lesson assignments according to the schedule on the program calendar.

I don't feel comfortable with putting my real identity online -  can I participate anonymously? Yes, you can choose a "screen name" for your online identity if you want to remain anonymous.  However, if you want to earn CE credit you need to share your real name with MSL staff so they can track your progress.

What if I need help - who can I call?  Since this program is self-directed, you are encouraged to work with colleagues along your journey of discovery. Often you will find your questions answered by checking out other participants' blogs or comments.  You can also contact Suzanne, Lauren, Tracy, Maggie or other Challenge participants for help.

Will I receive Continuing Education (CE) Credit for this?  Yes this class is eligible for CE credit in technology for the Montana Certification Program.  You can earn 1 CE credit for each lesson you complete.

Return to the Front Page for more information about the program schedule, then you'll be ready to get started.