Challenge #2: Learning Express Library

1)  I set up an account in the Learning Express Library and looked at the available exams.  Every practice exam I could think of was available.  It took me a little while to find the ASVAB.  It was under "Military" in the "Jobs and Careers" section.  Later, I realized I could have just typed ASVAB in the search engine and found it sooner.


2)  I chose to answer a few questions on the Math section of the ACT.  I only answered about 10 questions before I scored my test.  I liked being able to look at the diagnostic page which shows what subsection each question belonged to, such as algebra, geometry, probability, etc...  A quick look at this page would reveal what your strengths and weaknesses are.  For example, you may have aced the algebra, but struggled with the geometry.  Then, if you wonder exactly what you did wrong, you can click on "View Answers" which shows each question, your answer, the correct answer, a detailed explanation of how to solve the problem, and what subsection the problem belongs to.  A practice test that provides not just the final answer, but a detailed explanation and diagnostic breakdown would be very valuable for anyone needing to prepare for a test.  I'm glad my kids can use this when they are preparing for the ACT.

3)   Under the "Job Search and Workplace Skills" learning center, I chose to explore "Career Course:  Creating Great Cover Letters" by adding it to "My Center."  I explored the course, read the advice, completed the contact information, salutation, and closing, but just typed miscellaneous letters for the bodies of the paragraphs.  I thought a lot of the advice was very good.  However, I did notice that the sample cover letter correctly showed that you should enter the date between your contact information and the recipient's contact information.  However, in the more detailed instructions, the date is listed and asked for following the recipient's contact information.  One sentence says, "the recipient's contact information follows your contact information."  The date should actually follow your contact information.  I think this might cause a little confusion for users.  Otherwise, I think this course had some great advice.  I am glad I know about this resource.  I plan to recommend it to patrons who come in and ask for help building resumes, etc...  In the past, I have provided them with books, and helped them choose a Microsoft Word template for their resume.  Now, I know how to provide them with more help than they ever realized they needed.

4)  I chose to search for an e-book that would help with "persuasive speaking."  There were 15 results from that search term, with the first being "Public Speaking Success in 20 Minutes a Day."  The other 14 e-books, did not deal specifically with public speaking.  Their primary topics were grammar improvement, writing improvement, and vocabulary improvement.  I added the Public Speaking e-book to "My Center."  Then, I downloaded the book.  The e-book was 196 pages long and judging by the Table of Contents, it seemed to cover everything included in the public speaking course I had in college.  Pages 40-43 dealt specifically with persuasive speaking -- my search term.  I also took a quick look at the list of e-books on the bottom right of the home page.  There are so many e-books on so many topics!  I am amazed with the resources we can provide our patrons from this one website!