Health Concerns of Computer Use

Source:
---------. Health Concerns of Computer Use. Retrieved from Google, Sept. 18, 2009.
http://business.tafe.vu.edu.au/dsweb/Get/Document80143/Health+Concerns+of+Computer+Use+Draft.doc

Abstract:
This article tackled how the extensive use of computers affects the health of the people. It discusses some computer health risks and preventions, along with measures users can take to keep the environment healthy.

3 Things that I've Learned:

1. One third of all job-related injuries and illnesses are due to musculoskeletal disorders (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports). A musculoskeletal disorder (MSD), also called repetitive strain injury (RSI), is an injury or disorder of the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, and joints.
2. The following are health related condition and problem due to computer usage: tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and computer vision syndrome. Computer addiction and Internet addiction disorder are also growing health problem of today’s environment.
3. Green Computing involves reducing the electricity and environmental waste during computer use. One of the green computing computing suggestions is to use computers and devices that comply with the Energy Star program. One example of the program, many devices switch to standby or power save mode after a specified number of inactive minutes or hours.
   

Applications/Implications:
Today, computer is part of our everyday living. Most of us spend more than 8 hours a day in front of a computer which sometimes led to important health concerns. As an active user of computer, I need to be well-informed with the possible health complications it may cause. With my enough knowledge on computer health risks and preventions, I can share this with my colleagues as well as with our high school students in Ateneo during our Information Literacy Program.

Here are some hand exercises we can do to reduce the chance of a repetitive strain injury:

1. Spread fingers apart for several seconds while keeping wrists straight.
2. Gently push back fingers and then thumb.
3. Dangle arms loosely at sides and then shake arms and hands.

Other techniques to prevent eyestrain are:

1. Every 10 to 15 minutes, take an eye break.
2. Blink eyes every five seconds.
3. Use large fonts.
4. Adjust lighting.

These are just some techniques to avoid injuries and disorders from computer usage. It is still best that we take care of ourselves by being aware and informed against the increasing computer related injuries and disorders and by doing the right thing and taking some preventive measures.

Are Philippine Laws Ready for Electronic Commerce?

Source:
Cruz, Christopher E. Are Philippine Laws Ready for Electronic Commerce? Dec. 6, 2004.
Retrieved from Google, Sept. 17, 2009.
http://www.dlsu.edu.ph/research/centers/cberd/pdf/bus_focus/Phil_Laws_for_ECommerce.PDF

Abstract:
This article addresses if the Philippine laws regarding electronic commerce and electronic evidence suffices the security concerns in this kind of environment we have, which allows people from all walks of life to exchange goods and services from almost anywhere in the world any time, as well as any electronic document or data offered or used in evidence in court. Hence, in these laws, it is very difficult to prosecute a person under the law since "electronic trail" cannot be used in a criminal case. It is said that there is an urgent need to pass a law against cyber crimes. The Supreme Court should also issue new rules to make the Rules on Electronic Evidence applicable to criminal cases.

3 Things That I've Learned:

1. I learned there is such thing as Rules on Electronic Evidence in the Philippines which took effect on August 1, 2001.
2. Rules on Electronic Evidence includes digital signature, electronic data message or document, electronic signatures and the like.
3. There is still a need to come up with a law against cyber crimes because the laws we have here does not cover this issue.

Applications/Implications:
Having learned about the Rules on Electronic Evidence, it is our duty to comply with this law and be an information officer to all people that does not know it. As a librarian, we need to be cautious about what we are doing online, especially with electronic messages and documents we are sending to different people. I can also inform our students in high school about this law and what entails this law. Every transactions should be treated seriously and confidently.

With the growing popularity of online business via the Internet, cyber crimes like hacking, data manipulation, spreading viruses and fraudulent E-commerce transactions are becoming rampant. So we need to be aware on this. As the author of this article said, "The computers and the Internet will work for us and not against us."

Considering Open Source Software

Source:

Balas, Janet. “Considering Open Source Software.” Computers in Libraries 24 8 (2004) : 36-39. Retrieved from, Education Research Complete Database, Sept. 4, 2009.

Abstract:

This article talks about open source and what makes it interesting. It also discusses the use of open source software in library automation and in digital libraries. It suggests that before engaging in any open source projects, it is very helpful if we learn more about the topic. One place to start is the Open Source Initiative Web site. The Open Source Initiative or OSI, defines itself as a “non-profit corporation dedicated to managing and promoting the Open Source definition for the good of the community.” Users can learn more about the OSI certification mark and program by reading about successful open source software products and accessing current news on open source as well involve in online discussions like the WebJunction. Several suggestions were laid down for those who are interested in open source and implementation.

3 Things That I've Learned:

1. Before engaging in an open source software, we should learn and evaluate it carefully. We can read reviews and join forums.
   
2. An open source library automation project must be carefully planned and thoroughly researched before implementation .
3. There are various reviews, articles, bibliographies, and discussions online that tackles open source that a librarian may look up to, such as WebJunction, oss4lib Web site, etc.

Applications/Implications:

It is important for any institution that we evaluate and conduct further studies on the software that we are about to use. Especially with the creation of open source software, we need to see if that will fit our system, and if it answer our needs. A failed library automation project would not be embarrassing, but also expensive.

In our institution, we are starting to use DSpace (an open-source platform for accessing, managing, and preserving scholarly works) as repository of digital sources such as photos. But before we start doing that, we make further research and interviews regarding this open source. After some evaluation and the advantages and disadvantages have been known, we decided to push through with this project.

With the existence of open sources, we need to consider using this especially in this time of financial problems. We should make use of the many available open sources and be cautious in getting the right reference.

Trip to IRRI '09

A morning visit to (International Rice Research Institute) IRRI library is a worthwhile away from work. Learnings and insights were gained from the tours and talks, with Ms. Mila Ramos (Chief Librarian), Ms. Ems Lansangan (Librarian, Catalog), and Ms. Lea Delos Reyos (Librarian, Electronic Resources and Serials) as keynoters who introduces the library and its services. At the same, fun and happy memories were left to me by my LIS 260 class (1st sem, S.Y. 2009-2010) as we all traveled together and had our lunch at the Palaisdaan.

Through the lectures and orientation given to us by the librarians at the IRRI library, I have learned that IRRI library has the world's largest collection of rice literature and serves a worldwide clientele from the six continents. It offers various services (locally and internationally) and gives utmost service to their clienteles.

Its services are almost the same with other traditional libraries but what is noticeably good in this library is they maximize the use of available resources and make this as a gateway to better serve their clienteles. It is also very visible that the librarians are equipped in the Web 2.0 applications and they uses this to promote the library and its services as well as to inform their clienteles. Such as the blog of Ms. Ramos that talks about what's new in their library is an active blogging of events that informs their clientele via Web. The IRRI website, managed by a librarian, is similar to the saying "one stop shop" wherein everything is integrated in their website. Links are very well working, blog is present, different databases are there, online public access catalog is integrated, open access journals are used, compilation of web resources is there, and others. Their website can be considered a virtual library.

The IRRI library uses the Millenium Intregrated Library System for cataloging, circulation, and serials but unfortunately the acquisition module was dropped due to financial constraints. I learned that Millenium is a good software and uses Z39.50 gateway. Based from their experiences it is easy to use and requires not an IT person just to be able to use it. They did not encounter any problems with the Millenium except for the sustainability and maintenance that makes it disadvantage to them.

The different services were presented to us and I was happy to know that they are doing Document Delivery System (DDS) Service wherein they deliver research articles to their clienteles via direct access from the library, electronic mail, or snail mail. Ms. Ramos shown us the statistics of the countries they have served and it clearly shows that they are actively doing the service well.

Above mentioned are some of the services they offer. They also have electronic references available on their website, the current awareness or e-alerting service, interlibrary loans, computerized literature searches, bindery, etc... They also uses Skype as a means for reference chatting.

There are many things that we can learn from the services they do and their library. It is true that in the field of librarianship, the work never stops and it continues to evolve just like Ranganathan said in the 5 laws of librarianship that the "library is a living organism". It is true that our work is growing and continuously moving and we need to adapt and be capable.

As we study and see other libraries, realization and understanding in the field of librarianship can be imbibe and learnings will be applied to a better service and work. This field trip is such a wonderful experience to me.

The travel, experiences, interaction, bonding, and last but not the least, the foods that we have shared and eaten--these are some of the things that I will never forget in my trip to IRRI '09 as well as with the said class.

The IFLA Internet Manifesto

Source:
IFLA Internet Manifesto: http://www.ifla.org/III/misc/internetmanif.htm

Abstract:
The IFLA Internet Manifesto presents and asserts that: intellectual freedom is the right of every human both to hold and express opinions and to seek and receive information; freedom of access to information regardless of frontiers; the provision of unhindered access to the Internet by libraries and information services; and barriers to the flow of information should be removed especially those that promote inequality, poverty, and despair. The manifesto insists the freedom of access to information may it be with the Internet and libraries and information services. It holds on to the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights especially in Article 19. Thus, IFLA encourages the international community, national governments, and all governments to support the manifesto and urges the library community and decision makers at national and local levels to develop strategies, policies, and plans that implement the principles.

Three things I've learned:
1.The IFLA created the Internet Manifesto to strongly recommends and supports free access of information to anyone regardless of barriers and hindrances, and promotes freedom, equality, global understanding and peace.
2.The librarian and information profession take a big participation and responsibility in the implementation and application of the Manifesto.
3. There are many ways that the librarian and information profession can do to possibly implement and apply the principles expressed in the Manifesto.

Applications/Implications:
As a librarian, I greatly support the IFLA Internet Manifesto especially that our country, the Philippines, belongs to the third world country wherein access to information is not fully utilized especially by the unprivileged ones. It is very important that the information can be shared not to few but to many. One of our roles is to disseminate right and valuable information. It is hope that through the principles lay down by the IFLA, may our own institution plans for strategies, policies, and programs to support the freedom of information. In our institution, we can make use of the Manifesto in drafting our own ICT plan and program.

In A Paperless World A New Role for Academic Libraries : Providing Open Access

Source:

Bosc, Helene and Stevan Harnad. (2004). "In A Paperless World A New Role for Academic Libraries : Providing Open Access." Spreading the Word : Who Profits from Scientific Publications. Google Scholar, July 28, 2009. (http://eprints.ecs.soton.ac.uk/10721/1/boscharnadLP.htm.)

Abstract:

This article discusses that academic libraries should be considered research tools, co-evolving with technology. Due to many changes occurred brought to us by the information age and the way science is communicated, the role of libraries should be adaptive to this new tools. The development of central, discipline-specific online archives paved the way for a new scientific communication, known as Open Access (OA). The OA as defined and explained in the article presents that researchers provide OA to their peer reviewed journal articles in two different ways such as by publishing in them in OA journals and by publishing them in non-OA journals but also self archiving them in their institutional OA Archives. The researchers are said to be the best allies of the librarians both in the OA provision strategies. Also, some examples of the pioneering libraries are discussed in the article and from there the authors of the article concluded that an official mandate for OA provision is significant to increase the growth of OA as well as contribute in the growth of research usage and impact worldwide. The new era of OA to scientific research will begin, and researchers and research will draw all the benefits when academic libraries done their part.


3 things I have learned:

1. The librarians should always be aware on the technical developments resulting from the information age and must adopt and adapt to these changes and new tools not just on-paper but also on-line.
2. Libraries must explore on creating new OA journals, set-up OA archives and self-archive journal articles by "proxy: on behalf of their researchers" to access the necessary research information and gain scientific productivity.
3. In these present times, libraries especially the academic ones should practice providing OA to their clients by promoting both OA self-archiving and OA journal publishing.


Applications/Implications:

We all know that continuous changes are happening in the world of information, communication and technology. As a librarian, I need to be updated on the new trends brought to us by these new tools and technology. I need to explore on the different means and ways of acquiring right and accessible information and echo it to our clients. This way I can help spread the information, like the use of OA, which is one of the most significant role of a librarian.

In our institution, I can suggest to provide OA resources, OA search engines and OA journal directories in library web interfaces to help maximize and promote access to information provided that giving credits are always present in every information we freely get.

Evaluation of IR User Interface : Implications for User Interface Design

Source:

Hansen, Preben. (1998). “Evaluation of IR User Interface : Implications for User Interface Design.” Human IT. Retrieved July 21, 2009, from Google. (http://etjanst.hb.se/bhs/ith/2-98/ph.htm)

Abstract:

This paper presents the experimental evaluation study of information retrieval (IR) interaction for a user interface redesign of an online WWW-based IR system and discusses its implications. The goal of the study is to set up a methodological framework in order to investigate if the user interface provided sufficient support in order to conduct an information seeking behavior. In IR interaction, the user interface is the primary mechanism and serves as a link or a communication channel between the user and the computer (system). The focus of user interface design process is on who users are and what the tasks are. Recent studies show that when the end-users are given more instructions and more control over their searches, this affects their satisfaction and performance in a positive way. Throughout the study, it is concluded that when designing a user interface, decisions about the user preferences, user satisfaction, user tasks, user behavior and user requirements should be considered. It is noted that the results and the following conclusions mainly concerns computer science domain, but the implications drawn could represent important factors to be considered for IR design in general. Some factors emerged when examining the user background preferences, user satisfaction and user requirements. The task environments (work-task, information seeking task and search task), the users specific goals and tasks, the users information seeking behaviour, the use of an IR system and its components, including the user interface are some of the levels of work that must be understood in order to understand information seeking in context.

3 things that I've learned:

• Interaction in an IR system is important and can be thought of as being the level of control and support in the decision making of the various information seeking tasks.
  
• In user interface design process, the focus is on who the users are and what the tasks are. The task of information seeking is complex, and may vary from finding specific information through query formulation to a browsing activity involving exploring the database or information space.The main function of the system is to support the human user in her task(s). This task could be some activity that involves gaining a particular goal or purpose. Support should be designed to provide the user with the necessary assistance in gaining her goal. Generally, the user interface of an IR system has the task of guiding, supporting and transforming user's information problems or needs.
• The user interface can be divided in 2 parts: the interaction components and the development of interface software. The interaction component deals with how the user interfaces works and its behaviour in response to what the user does while performing a task. The interface software deals mainly with the implementation of the code for the interaction component.
  

Applications/Implications:

It is important that we consider the user interface of an IR system to improve the information seeking behavior of a user. As an information seeker, the interface and visualization of an IR system is one of the main factors that I consider. If the interface is user-friendly and appealing, it will be easy for us to search and find what we are looking for plus satisfaction on the part of the user will be achieved. Now, to help promote user interface design in an IR system, what I can do is to make comment and suggestion on the IR system of a site that I visited that I think does not contribute to the fast information seeking. In that way, I can help the developers know and may consider this to improve their system.