Computer Alert-- Health Concerns Mount as Kids Use the Machines at Home, School

Source Article
King, M. (1991). Computer Alert—Health Concerns Mount as Kids Use the Machines at Home,
School. Retrieved September 23, 2009 from

http://www.community.seattletimes.nwsource/archive/date=19910414&slug=1277254

Abstract
Computer use of individuals increases as they grow up. Children using and are exposed to this machine at an early age are likely to acquire various health problems when they grow up. Proper workplaces in schools and houses play a big role in preventing health troubles. Seattle’s nine educational technology centers teach educators how to operate the machinery and then integrate it into the curriculum. But there are no official guidelines to help school districts make judgments about potential risks to kids from using computers or any coordinating approach to disseminate information.

Things I learned from the article

1. Electromagnetic emissions from computer terminals vary, but they are strongest at shirt range.
2. To minimize exposure to electromagnetic emissions, place an arm’s length between you and the front of the screens and 4 feet between you and the sides or back of your neighbor’s computer.
3. Let children touch the computer first before adjusting the workstation to fit her rather than adjusting it beforehand.

Using computer is inevitable during these days. We use computers in school, work and at home. Everybody is prone to health problems caused by this machine and the likes. Since exposure to technologies imposes harm to human, proper education, especially to the young beginners, should be implemented. This may be the most we can do for we all know that we cannot put up computer stations with proper chairs, tables and other equipments.

E-Signatures: Are We Building Sufficient Evidence?

Source Article
Wright, B. (2007, January). E-Signatures: Are We Building Sufficient Electronic Evidence?

Retrieved September 17, 2009. from

http://www.insurancetech.com/news/showArticle.jhtmlarticleID=196901540

Abstract
The article presents cases in which electronic signatures and other computer records were used as evidence in court. It also cites what are needed and admissible in court to supplement and support such evidence.

Things I learned from the article:
1. Clicking the “I agree” button and some other symbols in the Web corresponds to your signature

and may be used in court against you.
2. There is such a thing as “hearsay” in electronic records which pertains to unreliable records.
3. Voice signature can be considered as signature in paper.


Though evidences in paper are still favored over their electronic counterparts, they are gradually gaining considerations among the law practitioners. It can’t be denied that one of the reasons why electronic evidences are less reliable is that they can easily be altered. With the use of different technologies, it’s not impossible.

We, as librarians, are also after the authenticity of materials we use and provide for our clients. Evidence wise, electronic data can’t really be 100% reliable. For instance, students can say that they have returned the book but the system says otherwise. If a signature of the student or the staff who received the book appear, then the issue is settled, the student, did returned the book and the system indeed had error.

Joy of the Open Road

Source Article:
Caldwell, T. (2007, September). JOY OF THE OPEN ROAD?. Information World Review,
Retrieved September 9, 2009, from Business Source Complete database.

Abstract
The article discusses the pros and cons of open source software in classroom and library settings. It aims to give answers to the following questions; (1) who is really accountable for the use of open source in the institution, (2) who is responsible for providing maintenance and support and (3)who is looking at managing the real cost.

Things I learned from the article:
1. I am not really familiar with how open source software works. But as the term suggests, I thought that this is fully free of charge. After reading the article, I learned that there is such a thing as service level agreement (SLA) which is being paid for in using open source software (though I’m not still sure if it applies to all open source software)
2. Though a growing number of libraries have been using open source software for their library operations, only a small percentage of these libraries include or mention using such software in their policy. This implies that the use of these softwares is initiated by enthusiastic techies.
3. Some commercial softwares are venturing into a more complex approach where in universities can develop it in same way as an open source system.

In today’s tough times, institutions, especially the small ones, undeniably benefit from open source software. But as the article argues, “open source is not the key feature; the key feature is value for money”, thus the deciding factor should be its interoperability, nature of support and security issues. Though this may be true, the problem with small institutions is the lack of IT staff who can evaluate and maintain the software, not to mention the budget. Reality wise, more institutions will prefer open source over commercial solutions.

On Liempo, Rambutan, Buko Pie and IRRI Library

The long road that leads to IRRI Library in Laguna has been so tiring. Hours of sitting can also make you wear out. But the tour to Laguna would not be complete without those. It will also make you appreciate more what the place has to offer.

First stop, IRRI. After taking a nice breakfast, the group went straight to the Library. We were warmly welcomed by Ms. Mila Ramos and the rest of the IRRI staff. They presented and discussed the IRRI Library history, Millennium, they electronic collection of both subscribed and open access journals and how they do their Document Delivery System. Below are the things I learned after the presentation and tour in the library:

1. Marc tag 856- though I used Millennium in cataloging before, I never came across this MARC tag which is used for URL.
2. Techniques in arranging the list of electronic journal in which users will be guided which among the list is open access and/or free.

The trip was very enriching. We were exposed to a premiere example of information retrieval system as well as Web 2.0 application in libraries. Millennium, the library system used in IRRI as well as in DLSU, was deemed as the best in its field. It provides for all the technical and circulation needs of libraries, especially for the big ones. The library’s collection of online journals is very comprehensive that it covers probably all aspects of rice and agricultural research. The Document Delivery Service is very helpful for researchers who don’t have direct access to the library’s resources.

After feeding our minds, we went our way, this time to feed our tummies. We were soooo hungry arriving at Kamayan sa Palaisdaan giving more appeal to the foods served, especially to the liempo. Rabutan and buko pie were bought as pasalubong, then off we go.