Unit 9 - Creating a digital catalog

Challenges have most definitely presented themselves during these past couple of weeks. In the past, my experience with cataloging has A.) only been print materials, and B.) working with established systems (i.e. using SEARS subject headings). Now I've had the chance to install repository software to catalog a small collection, and examine if LOC subject headings are really the best option. When describing an image, for example, in my EPrints collection, I felt like I was settling the closets LC heading shown, rather than finding the best headings to describe my item. This also leads to me to wonder how a user would see the collection when searching through it. The LC headings I assigned don't really seem like the types of keywords a user today might enter. Having a complete descriptive record (for example, a detailed description) could help. Those other descriptive fields could be utilized to include terms more likely to be used in a search.

Unit 7 - Building digital collections

As we're getting deeper into building a digital collection I'm learning more about the intricacies which affect how valuable/useful a collection can be. I'm actually a little concerned that a simple concept like controlled vocabulary is trickier than I imagined! The readings this week support what we've been learning about the Open Archives Initiative, and one segment discusses how the strength of the OAI is common metadata formats among various repositories. This leads me to really consider how I arrange the metadata for the items in my collection, because in a real world scenario I would want other institutions to locate and harvest this information; I worry that if I do a poor job at this, my "repository" is insufficient. I realize this is an issue that isn't new to what we have been discussing, but it's definitely opened my eyes to how much I should really be paying attention to, and learning about this area.

Unit 5 - modules

There were actually a couple of modules I installed, and hope to soon test out: a FAQ section and a chat room section (this one I'm unsure about- I didn't see technology requirements listed so I thought I'd give it a try). After reviewing available modules, these two seemed fitting for a collection of information relating to cleft lips/palates. I anticipate that many users of this collection are seeking information because they're personally involved with this birth defect. Some users might not know where to start with their research, which is why an FAQ section can help get them started. A chat room might not enhance the collection itself; it would be there as an added bonus, as many users are overwhelmed and need to talk to someone who not only shares in their experience, but may suggest further resources. In fact, suggestions via a chat room could give guidance on what my collection needs. Another module I'm considering is the daily news feed.
The only problems experienced was the correct format for entering the command in my VM. For example, typing "FAQ" vs. "Frequently Asked Questions," and keeping "chatroom" as one word vs. two. The simplest omission of a letter or one letter too many will result in an error message, so you need to pay very close attention to how you're entering the command.