23 Mobile Things: self-directed and effective professional learning
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the “Mobile 23 Things” survey results from the program offered by Guldborgsund-bibliotekerne (a public library in Denmark) and present the findings as support for professional development (PD) models to increase library staff familiarity with emerging technologies.
Design/methodology/approach
Using an integrated, exploratory approach, a web-based survey tool, developed for a previous Learning 2.0 study, was adapted for this study, with survey questions translated English – Danish, and responses Danish – English. The data gathered from both pre- and post-program surveys are presented and analyzed.
Findings
The research results identify that 23 Mobile Things increases familiarity with movable technologies, promotes inclusive learning, and can be an effective model for delivering PD.
Originality/value
This paper reports on the first research study to evaluate the 23 Mobile Things model and provides evidence that this model of library staff PD can be an overall beneficial experience that increases staff knowledge and expertise related to mobile devices and applications.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Special thanks to Jan Holmquist for his work on this 23 Mobile Things program and for partnering for research. Thanks also to Kenneth P. Nielsen of Phrase It for his assistance with the survey translations.
Citation
Stephens, M. (2014), "23 Mobile Things: self-directed and effective professional learning", Library Management, Vol. 35 No. 8/9, pp. 582-593. https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-02-2014-0034
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited