'Sources of Information' - Learning from others!!!

What have I learnt from looking at other people's 'Sources of Information'??

In the majority of cases I felt that most people on the course used and valued similar 'Sources of Information', as you would expect with people working in a similar field.  However, as always I have learnt new things from the work of others and can definitely see ways in which I can improve upon mine. 

Facebook
I have always been reluctant to admit that I used Facebook in a Professional way, however after reading other Blogs I have had my eyes opened to it's use as an Information Source and Networking tool.  Corinda Hall mentioned how she uses Facebook for the 'Calendar of Events' tool and also as a way to advertise, whether it be a class you are teaching or a product you have to sell.  I realised how advantageous this could be: it is a free form of advertising and facebook is such a huge phenomenom that your 'advertisement' can reach a vast amount of people. 
Liam Conman also commented on how he 'Status Searches' on Facebook and will often find out information from his Dance Teacher friends, whether it be a class being held or a useful resource to look up.  I had to giggle to myself when reading this as I do this so often and haven't realised until now that this is a huge part of my source of information.  I will quite often spend an hour or so looking at facebook, friend's statuses, profiles etc.. just to find information on auditions, classes and other relevant events. 
I think it is finally time to admit that Facebook is part of my Professional life and is a huge feature within my Professional Networking!

Gathering and Organising Information
Alicia Beck made an interesting point....'The emphasis should be placed on the value of what is produced not how we do it'.  This comment really stuck out to me and I completely agree with it.  It links with the idea that we all learn differently: everyone will have their own way of gathering the information and as long as the value of the information remains and is accessible, then the way in which we do it should not matter. 

As with learning and reflection, it is about finding the best method for you and I do believe we can learn from others and utilise their methods for our own gain! Liam mentions his I-Pod as a top source of information - I think the I-Pod could be the tool for gathering and organising the information, instead of actually being the source!
It is so easy to organise on an I-Pod - playlists, albums, genre etc. When I think about it in more depth my own I-Pod is used in this way.  I have playlists for different teaching classes, vocal warm ups separated into age group categories etc.

Today's technology allows us to be super organised and it allows us to carry our information sources with us at all times, which is fantastic.  I have to agree with Alicia though, nothing will replace my hand written appointment diary.  No matter how many gadgets I accumulate with the function of a diary included, my Pocket Diary will remain pride of place :)