LogMeIn

Martha sent an article about LogMeIn.  LogMeIn is the parent company of Join.Me - the app I use to work on the computer remotely with students.  LogMeIn allows for remote access of all of your computers.  It is free and works on the Mac and PC.  I don't often have two computers on at the same time, with the exception of the laptop and iPad, although some might question that assertion.  Dropbox has probably been the main reason that I don't use LogMeIn anymore.  I would never have any files in DropBox that reveal any confidential information.  Most of the files relate to meeting minutes or course lessons. Anyway, LogMeIn is a very nice app if you need a file that is stored on a remote computer..

Skitch for Evernote

Learned about a new app, Skitch, that works with Evernote yesterday. It is free for the iPad from the iTunes store.  To learn more, go to http://skitch.com/

Skitch allows you to annotate media.  It is really easy to use.  When you are finished, simply save it to Evernote.

Encryption Software

Now that I have most of the paperwork for fall semester completed, I have time to do some exploring.  With privacy issues associate with HIPAA and FERPA, it is important for clinicians and educators to use encryption software.  AxCrypt (http://www.axantum.com/) has just released a new update to the free encryption software.  The software is really easy to use.  Simply right-click on a file or folder and select encrypt from the menu. 

To learn more about encryption, go to How Stuff Works at http://www.howstuffworks.com/encryption.htm 

New computers often have encryption software pre-installed.

Social Media Use in Nursing

I stumbled upon a 6-minute video on the use of social media in nursing on YouTube.  It provides a very nice overview on the subject. In my research on the topic, I found that the video is posted on the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website with the NCSBN social media guidelines at https://www.ncsbn.org/2930.htm,  
The American Nurses Association has published a toolkit on the topic.  The toolkit can be accessed at http://nursingworld.org/socialnetworkingtoolkit

Outlook 2010 Power Shortcuts

 Oscar (my 12 pound dachshund) decided that I had to get up at 5 AM! :-(  Of course, he is now curled up and asleep.  Anyway, I explored new 2010 Outlook features.  Thought of Martha when viewing Lynda.com because she uses 2 monitors at the office.  The URL for  the video is noted below.
Outlook 2010 Power Shortcuts

Transferring an eBook ot the iPad

I just finally finished writing a chapter for a textbook on distance learning.  One of the sections in the chapter had to do with eBooks - so of course, that took some research.  I had already downloaded some eBook readers (discussed in an earlier blog) to my iPad. I knew that I could purchase or in some cases with really old books, like those written by Florence Nightingale, download for free.

The new adventure was to figure out how to check out eBooks from the local public library.  I went to the Twin Lakes Library website and found a tab that had all of the eBooks.  It included both audio books and digital books.  There were not as many digital books  as audio.  One blog I read during the research indicated that eBook publishing companies were hesitant to make their resources available because of concerns about losing sales.  Oh well....

One of the YouTube videos on the topic indicated that Adobe Digital Editions was a free app for checking out an eBooks, so I downloaded it.  It required for me to enter my Adobe ID and password.

On the local public library website, I found a book by a favorite author.  When I tried to check out the book, it was not available.  A couple of days later, I received an email stating that the book was available for checkout.  I downloaded it to Adobe Digital Editions. The following steps were use to get the eBook to the iPad.

• Downloaded the Bluefire Reader from the Apple store onto the iPad
• Synced the iPad with iTunes
• Added the eBook from Documents > Adobe Digital Editions to Bluefire Reader
• Opened the Bluefire Reader and authorized it with my Adobe ID and password
• Done!

Well, that might seem like a complicated process, but in reality, most of the steps had to be accomplished only once.  I have all of the necessary applications downloaded.  The next time I check out an eBook, all that I have to do is to add it to the Bluefire Reader and sync.  

Air Print

Air Print is just amazing!  HP worked with Apple to make it happen.  With air print I can print from my iPhone or iPad from any room in the house. 
The HP printer has other useful tools.  For example, it allows me to email documents for printing – from anywhere that I have Internet access.  That comes in very handy since my laptop from the university does not recognize the home network and cannot print using the network. 
It is also helpful when working with others on research at the house because they can also print from their iPads or email documents to the printer.
I am using Windows Live Writer to create this post.

Social Bookmarking Tools - Part 2

Clipmarks offers a different twist on social bookmarking. You have choices, including emailing the clip to others. Unlike Diigo, you cannot use it on the iPad or smartphone

Social Bookmarking Tools

I have used Delicious to bookmark my favorite websites for several years because I use more than one web browser and several different computer platforms.  Recently, I heard that Delicious was a thing of the past and that sparked my curiousity.  Well today, I figured out the reason - Diigo! I got it!  :-)

Diigo V5: Collect and Highlight, Then Remember! from diigobuzz on Vimeo.

Embedding a YouTube Video into PowerPoint - An Update

A couple of years ago, I posted a blog on how to embed a YouTube video with PowerPoint 2007 and 2003. That was before PowerPoint 2010 was released.  If you have PowerPoint 2010, the procedure could not possibly be easier!  You just click insert video from website and copy the embed code from the YouTube website.  I have updated the PowerPoint tutorial to show the tricks that allow you to embed a YouTube video in PowerPoint.  The PowerPoint presentation is online at http://hercules.gcsu.edu/jsewell/Embedding_a_YouTube_Video.ppt

The Empowered Healthcare Consumer

A student in one of my courses shared a great story about a recent healthcare experience.  It punctuated the amazing possibilities for empowering the consumer.  I have de-identified the report, but you should be able to appreciate the story.

"I thought I would tell you that my kids are both sick and I had to take them to see their pediatrician last night. ...when I checked them in, they asked me for my email address. When I got home last night I had an email from them telling me how to log into their new Patient Portal. They are using eclinicalweb and I was able to log in and see everything about the kids' visit including their lab results, the visit report, vitals, etc. It was so nice to have access to that and it really made me think about how good it would be for all offices to do this so that patients can be informed about their care!"

Loss of Steve Jobs

It is a sad day around the world with the loss of Steve Jobs.  His brilliance has transformed how we use technology.

Patient Rights

The HealthIT website has been updated with frequently asked questions for patients/families. It includes information about the personal health record (PHR) and HIPAA.  It is certainly worth  exploring as nurses advocate for others. 

http://www.healthit.gov/patients-families/frequently-asked-questions

Usability

Am WAY behind on posts. 
Linda added this resource to the textbook website. 
September 22, 2011 HIMSS EHR Usability Task Force (2009, June). "Defining and Testing EMR Usability: Principles and Proposed Methods of EMR Usability Evaluation and Rating." Provides agood description of usability, and methods of evaluating both during planning, and after. Must reading for those considering a new system, or an upgrade. Also discusses the differences between usability and user satisfaction as well as efficiency and effectiveness. (Chapter 18)


http://www.himss.org/content/files/himss_definingandtestingemrusability.pdf.

QR codes in the Georgia College Library

A few weeks ago I was exploring QR codes.  I downloaded the app for my cell phone and iPad.  Then Martha shared the fact that a library was using QR codes to provide additional information about resources.  In the particular example she shared the library used the QR codes as a "where in the world" game.  Just a few minutes ago, I received an email that says QR codes are now available in the Georgia College library.

Am quoting the email below:
"These square symbols are “read” by a QR code reader application (on a smart phone or device) and information is brought to the screen. The library is introducing these codes to provide students and researchers with additional information about the library, to find subject guides, etc. Special Collections is also using QR codes for their displays and exhibits to provide viewers with more insight about the materials."

Hope that the students and faculty appreciate the interactive innovation! 

Free Breakfast from Chick Fil A - when ordered online

Tracy shared an interesting Chick Fil A e-order initiative.  Order your food online and get a free breakfast.  I found that there are 104 available reservations in my town for the next three days.  The offer is only available from September 6-10.  Try it! http://www.chick-fil-aforbreakfast.com/Start

EHR Simulation

I am in pursuit of an open EHR that nursing programs can use to build simulations.  I have explored proprietary EHRs for simulation and am not impressed (hope that I don't hurt anyone's feelings).  Nursing programs need something simple and easy to use.  Last weekend, a colleague sent me a couple of files from the QSEN 2010 conference and one was a presentation about an EHR simulation using an Excel workbook! The tabs at the bottom of the workbook provide views of different EHR windows.

I contacted the author, Debra Filer, and she has graciously given permission for me to use in this blog. I am including a screenshot below.  In the meantime, I am still looking for open EHR models.  I downloaded one that was developed for a rural world clinic, but have not gotten it to work correctly.  

Teacher Training Videos and Glogster

I had a few moments to explore a website developed by Russell Stannard, Teacher Training Videos at http://www.teachertrainingvideos.com/

He has a wealth of information available for teachers and has developed short video tutorials for the resources he discusses.  One that I viewed was about Glogster.  Glogster (http://www.glogster.com/) allows us to create interactive posters that include video and audio.  A teacher can have a free account that will accommodate 50 students. Glogster is a social networking tool because the posters can be shared and  rated. It is an interesting teaching tool and certainly one worth exploring.

I can envision using Glogster to create an interactive concept map.  I thought of concepts maps after reviewing a QSEN (Quality and Safety Education for Nurses) presentation, Advanced Practice Nursing

Education: Teaching QSEN Informatics and Teamwork Competencies, where DNP students used concept maps to depict the electronic health record (EHR). The PDF presentation is online at http://www.qsen.org/docs/2011_conference/QSEN_2011_Warren.pdf

Transforming Care at the Bedside

The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) started the initiative that was funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Transforming Care at the Bedside, in 2003.  The IHI has a number of excellent tools to improve care outcomes at http://www.ihi.org/offerings/Initiatives/PastStrategicInitiatives/TCAB/Pages/Materials.aspx

Examples include:

• Transforming Care at the Bedside How-to Guide: Creating an Ideal Transition Home for Patients with Heart Failure
• Transforming Care at the Bedside How-to Guide: Developing Front-Line Nursing Managers to Lead Innovation and Improvement
• Transforming Care at the Bedside How-to Guide: Engaging Front-Line Staff in Innovation and Quality Improvement
• Transforming Care at the Bedside How-to Guide: Increasing Nurses' Time in Direct Patient Care
• Transforming Care at the Bedside How-to Guide: Optimizing Communication and Teamwork
• Transforming Care at the Bedside How-to Guide: Reducing Patient Injuries from Falls
• Transforming Care at the Bedside How-to Guide: Spreading Innovations to Improve Care on Medical and Surgical Units

  
  
  

Projector Integration Innovation for Apple Devices

Tracy sent me a link to an article that describes plans to integrate a projector into Apple devices like iPhones and iPads.  The link is at http://appadvice.com/appnn/2011/08/apples-plans-for-projector-integration-are-groundbreaking-exciting-possibly-ready-to-go

What is even more innovative about this function is that it would allow gesturing.  Very interesting.

Now, just in case you might not know it, you can project using an iPhone or iPad, but it takes a separate device (the size of a deck of cards and weighing about 4 ounces).  Examples include:

• Optoma Pico PK101 Projector [PK101] - about $179
• MicroVision SHOWWX+ Laser Pocket Projector - about $294

It is clear that our nursing grad students are going to give me a workout this fall semester as they explore innovations that can be used in the healthcare setting with their iPads.  Can't wait!

Teaching with an iPad

Tracy, emailed me an article about teaching an online course with an iPad.  The instructor was teaching a course entitled Technology and Innovation Management.  The article is online at

http://www.zinio.com/reader.jsp?issue=416180327&o=int&prev=si&p=69

I use many of the apps shared in the article including Dropbox and Evernote.  I plan to use the iPad for myself and students in one of my graduate informatics courses this fall.  We will have to explore some of the apps described in the article over the next few weeks.  Perhaps the experience will be something that the students want to write about (for publication) in NRSG 6724. Hint, Hint...

It is an excellent read! I especially enjoyed the lessons learned section of the article.

iPad EHR - Meaningful Use Certification

An iPad EHR, drchrono EHR, received meaningful use certification!  It is designed for ambulatory care settings.  What is even more interesting is that it is free.  It is definately an app that I want students to explore in the two graduate informatics courses that I am teaching this fall!  It certainly may be perfect for our undergraduate nursing program clinical lab settings and nurse practitioner students.

Read more about the EHR at https://drchrono.com/ipad_ehr/

Features include:

• Real time clinical speech-to-text on the iPad
• Custom workflows and the ability to integrate photos and videos into a patient chart
• Integrated electronic medical billing
• Electronic prescribing to send prescriptions to any pharmacy in the U.S.
• A streamlined user interface that allow doctors to complete their clinical notes before the patient leaves the exam room

 

QR Codes and Education

Martha shared an idea on how Layfayette University library is using QR codes.  The library developed a game, Where in the Library is Carmen Sandiego?: An Interactive Library Mystery Game. Read more at http://calendar.lafayette.edu/node/121.  Essentially, it is a game that also allows the students to become oriented to the library.  Martha and Erin discussed using the idea with the freshman seminar.

Another idea is to have students in the freshman seminar interview the different librarians responsible for library sections, write up a short descriptions, and create QR codes that would be posted in the library. 

Some websites with more information about QR codes are:

• 40 Interesting Ways* to Use QR Codes in the Classroom at
  

  *and tipshttps://docs.google.com/present/view?id=0AclS3lrlFkCIZGhuMnZjdjVfNzY1aHNkdzV4Y3I&hl=en_GB&authkey=COX05IsF&pli=1
• QR Challenge:The Events of the American Civil War at http://tinyurl.com/3pnrszphttp://tinyurl.com/3pnrszp
• QR Codes in Education at http://livebinders.com/play/play_or_edit/51894
• Blended Teaching with QR Codes - http://prezi.com/un-8c93k-cdy/blended-learning-with-qr-codes/
• Using QR Codes in Education at http://www.iste.org/connect/iste-connects/blog-detail/11-01-12/Using_QR_Codes_in_Education.aspx

  
  
  
  
  

QR Code Scanners and Creators

Have you seen any of those little squares of code on a magazine, newspaper, museum picture, or other?  It would look similar to the code noted below:

The code above is a link to this blog!  Wonder how to use it?  First, download a QR (Quick Response)  scanner to your mobile device (it needs to have a rear-facing camera).  Open the QR app - and hold it over the code.  You will receive a menu with options, such as opening a web page.  Wikipedia is a great starting point to learn more about QR codes - at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code

QR scanners are available for all of the popular smartphones including the iPhone, Android, and Blackberry.  I am using the app, QR Scanner, on the iPhone.

So you still might be wondering about why to use QR codes.  Think about it.  With QR code, you do not need to enter the URL of a website - just point and click.  QR codes allow the creator to share messages to users. PS, I used the Kaywa website to create the QR code at  http://qrcode.kaywa.com/

I read a blog on design thinking this morning that discussed the use of QR codes in the educational setting.  In that context, students who created a projects created QR codes to provide additional information to users. 

Wow - need to think about how I can incorporate the use of creating/using QR codes in my courses.

More Android Apps

A Lifehacker article has a listing of more Android apps at http://lifehacker.com/5827518/lifehacker-pack-for-android-our-list-of-the-best-android-apps

Some of the favorites still include Dropbox (cloud storage), Evernote (word processing, notes, pics, voice synced to the cloud), Kindle, and Pandora (music). 

Apps for the Smartphone

A few weeks I posted a request to hear from those using smartphones, especially the Droid, favorite apps.  Tracy - I know that you must have missed that blog :)

Anyway, the August 2011 has a very nice article, Essential Apps for Every Smartphone.  It includes apps for the Droid, Blackberry RIM, Apple, and Windows Phone 7.  You can read the article online at http://www.pcworld.com/article/230629/essential_apps_for_android.html

Would like to hear your comments - what you liked and what might have been missing from the list. 

Thinking about Purchasing a New Laptop?

Katie called me yesterday morning from Pennsylvania.  Her 7 year old laptop is on death's door and she needs to purchase a new one.  Her local IT guy said that she needed to spend over $1000.  I knew that she was not doing much other than Quickbooks - especially with  very old computer.  I also knew that tablets were taking a big bite out of the laptop market.  We did some quick searches together and verified that indeed she can find a great laptop for less than $1000 ($500-$800 range). 

Of course, the IT guy was also going to charge her to transfer her files.  My recommendation (since software would have to be are regular install) - go out a purchase a thumbdrive.  She will be able to drag her entire My Documents and My Desktop folders over to the new laptop.  Afterwards, she could use the thumbdrive to back up her essential documents.

ZocDoc for scheduling appointments

Martha sent me a link to a new app, ZocDoc.  It is available in the iTunes store and it is free.  What the app does is to allow you to search for a provider and see available appointment times. Thc concept is awesome!  That said, if we are having difficulty getting providers to use technology.... you get the idea.

Check out the link at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/zocdoc-doctor-appointments/id391062219?mt=8&ls=1

DoseMinder

Martha shared info on a free app,DoseMinder. You can enter the names of individuals, their Medscape, amounts, and times. The app sends a reminder. The price is right. Certainly worth exploring.

4th Edition of Informatics and Nursing Textbook

I received final proofs of the 4th edition of the Informatics and Nursing textbook yesterday.  According to an email from the acquisitions editor - the textbook will be available in February 2012!  I believe that everyone will enjoy the new fresh "look and feel" of the book.  The graphics have been updated. 

SINI

This year's SINI in Baltimore was excellent!  Thanks to those of you who commented personally to me re the blog.  Please consider "following this blog" so that you can contribute to the discussion.  I don't know about the rest of those who attended, but I am just now catching up.  See you in the "cloud." 

There is an App for That!

I presented at and attended the Sloan/Merlot Emerging Technologies for Online Learning conference in San Jose this past week.  There were so many excellent presentations!  Attended one given by Robbie Melton and her team from the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) on apps and elearning.  The TBR has a phenomenal web site at http://www.tbrelearning.org/.  Robbie brought every mobile app device created (not much of an exaggeration :-).  The website is certainly worth exploring. 

One of the presenters (a nurse) used an iPad to give her presentation.  It was excellent.  I have not had the courage to take only an iPad to give a conference presentation. 

Weebly and SoftChalk Connect

Worked all morning with my friend Laura to finalize our 3-hour pre-conference workshop for the Emerging Technologies for Online Learning International Symposium.  Laura introduced me to a new app, Weebly (http://www.weebly.com/) which allows us to create online web pages.  The free version uses the word, weebly, in the URL address.  I has a sharing aspect where others can provide feedback.  There is a subscription version for commercial use.  It is worth exploring.  Would like to hear from others who have used it.

I took the time to explore SoftChalk Connect some more.  SoftChalk Connect is a learning object repository of resources created with the commercial app, SoftChalk.  The unique aspect of the SoftChalk Connect is that users can share with both a URL or imbedded code - so that the apps can be added to the other collections like MERLOT (http://www.merlot.org/) and web sites.

Twitter

Learn more about Twitter at http://support.twitter.com/groups/31-twitter-basics/topics/104-welcome-to-twitter-support/articles/215585-twitter-101-how-should-i-get-started-using-twitter

Figure out why Twitter uses "hashtags" (#) and the @ symbol.  Share your experiences.
http://twitter.com/jeannesewell

iPad 2

OMG - love the iPad2!!  Have had it for only 1 week.  Plan to have grad students in one of my courses this fall to use it to see what they discover (Yes, Debbie - I picked up on your lead with the RN-BSN students).

The front facing camera works really well with Skype.  It will be a great way to have virtual office hours this fall semester.

The Emerging Technologies for Online Learning Conference emailed the conference program book and attendance list.  Rather than print it, I saved it to the Dropbox and then opened it in iBooks.  I won't have to print anything and will have the program book the entire conference. 

Please share your experiences and apps with an iPad (1st or 2nd generation).

Microsoft Web Apps and Co-Authoring

I can't tell you how many times I have worked in a group on the same document simulataneously.  Of course, we had to use Google docs because it allows co-authoring.  Just received an email announcement that Microsoft finally allows for co-authoring in their web app Skydrive.  You can read more about the feature on the Microsoft blog at  http://blogs.msdn.com/b/officewebapps/archive/2011/07/07/10184240.aspx

That feature may prompt me to use my Skydrive account more.  Until now, I have used it as a cloud computing backup for critical files (one of several backups :-). 

Using Excel to Create a Concept Map

Debby and I were working on the graduate handbook yesterday - while she also had Elluminate Live open chatting with the grad students taking pathophysiology.  She has the students create concept maps for topics the students are studying in patho.  She was commenting on the impressive creativity that the students are demonstrating.  One of the apps the students use was Excel.  At first I was surprised, but then reflected on the fact the Excel has the same drawing tools found in Word and PowerPoint.  I did a little research and found a website that has a tutorial on how to use Excel to create a concept map.  The site is http://www.internet4classrooms.com/excel_concept_map.htm

Pocket Medical Spanish with Audio

Epocrates Pocket Medical Spanish with Audio is a free download for the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad until July 8th.  You can download it from iTunes.  It includes an introduction, general questions, and different categories such as pain, chest problems, etc.  Each phrase is written in both English and Spanish with audio clip to state the phrase in Spanish.  Enjoy and have a wonderful July 4th holiday!

Tracy shared this link to the June 2011 Open Government Progress Report.  It provides an update on the four key domain areas:

• Leadership, Governance and Culture Change at HHS
• Transparency and Data Sharing
• Participation and Collaboration
• HHS Open Government Flagship Initiatives

Read more at http://www.hhs.gov/open/discussion/june_2011_ogov_progress_report_released.html

Computer Analytics and the Connection with Beer, Pop-Tarts, and Hurricanes

Okay, I realize that you probably believe that I have gone over the edge!  Actually, the connection between analytics, hurricanes, beer, and Pop-Tarts was brought up by Dr. Bates in his presentation last Friday evening. 

In essence, Wal-Mart used predictive analytics during Hurricane Charlie when it hit Florida in 2004 in order to discover what buyers were purchasing on all items.  As it turned out, buyers bought lots of beer and Pop-Tarts!  Interesting!!  You can read more at http://www.evancarmichael.com/Small-Business-Consulting/982/What-Beer-PopTarts-and-Hurricanes-Have-to-do-with-YOUR-Business.html

Imagine what healthcare would look like if the use of predictive analytics was pervasive in our practice?  I believe that there is a treasure chest in all of the data we hoard!

29th International Nursing Technology Conference

I just returned from Boston last evening where I attended the 29th International Nursing Technology Conference.  I have attended the conference many times over the years - but this particicular one was the best!!

On Friday, Dr. David Bates opened the conference discussing "meaningful use" and the work of many developing the initiative of the ONC.  Dr. Bates was an excellent speaker.  While he was optimistic, he was also a realist and discussed the challenges as progress is made on the electronic health record.

On Saturday, the opening speaker was Patty Dykes.  She spoke on informatics research to promote meaningful use.  She gave examples of apps developed at Partners Healthcare to addressed patient safety.  Examples included the Fall TIPS Toolkit, an electronic communication center (imagine a computer monitor located abover the head of the bed with useful information for caregivers - that can also swing around for use by the patient), and the work at Partners to standardize data for quality reporting.

The breakout sessions were also excellent.  My favorites were the sessions conducted by Michelle Troseth and Denise Tucker. Michelle did two presentations.  One addressed the IOM, The Future of Nursing and the book Educating Nurses.  Michelle stressed the importance connecting assessment and interventions and using a framework that is evidence-based.  Her other session brought the attendees up-to-date on the TIGER initiative.

Denise Tucker did a wondership presentation on providing end-of-like care and ethical principles with simulation.  She provided very specific information in a compelling and meaningful manner.

The other presentations I attended were all very good. 

iAnnotate for the iPad

Tracy sent me an email that reminded me to blog about iAnnotate for the iPad.  It is a very nice app that allows the user to navigate and "mark-up" a PDF file.  Some unexpected features include the ability to use the iPad's camera (obviously - the iPad 2) as an annotation in a document.  You can also record a Sound Clip annotation. There are many other features in the newest version, 1.5, that was updated on June 15th. 

Hmmm - those particular features (ability to add photos and sound clips) remind me of some educational software that allow groups of students to share and learn.  I wonder if groups of students might contribute to and share annotations using the DropBox app. 

iPad and Huntington's Disease

Martha shared an interesting article, Augmented Communication Devices, published in the May 2011 newsletter for HDSA.org.  The article was especially meaningful because my husband's goddaughter's mother-in-law has Huntington's Disease.

The article describes how the iPad can assist individuals who has difficulty with motor skills and communication to communicate with others.  The size and dimensions of the iPad allow it to be mounted conveniently for uses.  Moreover, there are numerous apps that are designed to facilitate communication.  Apps listed in the article were (most require purchase - some costing over $150):

• Proloquo2Go
• TapSpeak Choice
• Speak It Text to Speech
• NeoKate
• NeoPaul
• Talk Assist
• iCommunicate
• Grace Picture Exchange for Non-Verbal People
• ArtikPix
• Look2Learn
• Predictable

Not mentioned, but might be useful is iSpeakIt. 

Other types of apps and iPad features that might be helpful to facilitate communication include eBooks, word prediction, speech recognition software, and gaming apps.

Although the article specifically addressed Huntington's Disease, it is easy to see how any of the apps could benefit individuals with communication difficulties ranging from children to adults.

Google Health Going Away

According to several news articles that popped up today, Google Health will be discontinued in January of next year.  What Google may or may not understand - is that the personal health record will not have widespread adoption until there is infrastructure that allows for information exchange between consumers/providers. 
http://www.healthdatamanagement.com/news/google-health-personal-health-records-discontinue-retire-phr-42690-1.html?ET=healthdatamanagement:e1856:144174a:&st=email&utm_source=editorial&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=HDM_Daily_062711

Justice Done with Conviction of Texas Sheriff Who Retaliated Against Nurses

Justice has been done with the conviction of Sheriff Robert Roberts who retaliated against two nurses who reported the Sheriff's friend, a physician.  You can read more at http://www.star-telegram.com/2011/06/15/3155780/nurse-advocate-state-medical-official.html

As frustrated as I have been with the American Nurses Association at times, it came through once again when they supported the two nurses.  You can read more at http://www.texasnurses.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=509#verdict

Physician Use of Mobile Devices

An interesting study of over 3 thousand physicians use of mobile devices was recently released and can be viewed at http://www.quantiamd.com/q-qcp/QuantiaMD_Research_TabletsSetToChangeMedicalPractice.pdf

Am behind on blogs...  have been working on our graduate program with other member of the graduate committee. 

Considering Social Media Policies for Nursing Education Programs

Diane Skiba wrote a wonderful article in Nursing Education Perspective earlier this year.  The article is available at http://www.faqs.org/periodicals/201103/2343728661.html

Nursing education programs and other organizations should consider adopting a social media policy.  When  a group of college students were polled about the Facebook posting a a nursing student in uniform holding up a placenta - half of the students saw no problem with the posting.  That sentiment did change after some discussion. 

Of course, the story about Representive Weiner's Tweets sheds light on the implications of inappropriate postings. The difference between Rep. Weiner and nursing students is striking.  He is much older and knew what he was doing was not a societal norm.  The students are just gaining real world experience.

Education about the use and inappropriate use of social media is crucial to the successful implimentation of a policy to guide users.

Comparing Healthcare

It is interesting to talk with healthcare providers and nursing students (some who are already RNs) regarding hospital comparisons and patient satisfaction.  Several of the RN students thought that the patient satisfaction initiative was only at their facility.  They did not understand that it related to reimbursement.  The Medicare site explaining HCAHPS (Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems).
Medicare site - comparing outcomes of HCAHPS (https://www.cms.gov/HospitalQualityInits/30_HospitalHCAHPS.asp) http://www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov/

Until recently, I did not realize that the AHRQ (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality) provides the ability for users to view measures of state performance by region (State Snapshots - http://statesnapshots.ahrq.gov/snaps10/index.jsp) for the following:
"•Overall health care quality
•Types of care (preventive, acute, and chronic)
•Settings of care (hospitals, ambulatory care, nursing home, and home health)
•Five clinical conditions (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, maternal and child health, and respiratory diseases)
•Special focus areas on diabetes, asthma, Healthy People 2010, clinical preventive services, disparities, payer, and variation over time"

If you haven't already done so, take a few moments to compare performances of healthcare agencies in your region.

Update

Am still here.... just finishing up finalizing grading for two courses for Maymester and working on reports for the Georgia College new DNP program.  Have several blogs in line, thanks to emails from Tracy and others. 

Thanks to Our Textbook Users!

The sale of our textbook quadrupled the 4th quarter of last year!  Wow!!!  A warm thank you to everyone who purchased the book.  The 4th edition is finished and gone to the publisher.  We tried to take the best of the 3rd edition and make it even better in the 4th edition.  For example, all of the files used for illustration and explanation in the chapters on office applications will be available for users to download.  Office applications include Microsoft Office 2010 and cloud office computing apps. The Affordable Care Act information has been added along with the many changes in the political landscape affecting informatics. 

What are Your Favorite Droid Apps?

I want to hear from you!  What are  your favorite apps for the Android phone?  Why? 

Nursing Informatics Awareness Day

May 12^th is Nursing Informatics Awareness Day.  Learn more about nursing informatics at http://www.himss.org/handouts/NIAwareDayFlyer.pdf

iRecorder app

Kendra and I conducted a focus group with graduating senior nursing students a couple of weeks ago.  We wanted a qualitative component to assess the BSN program effectiveness.  We used a borrowed digital recorder and I experimented using iRecorder on the iPad (downloaded the free version).  We placed the microphone for the digital recorder in the middle of the tables (there were 17 students who participated).  I had the iPad in front of me at one end of the tables.  The most amazing thing is that iRecorder picked up the conversation with amazing clarity which was much better than the digital recorder!

We discovered that the downside to free version of iRecorder was that we could not share the recording file.  I "broke the bank" and downloaded the $2.99 version of iRecorder, but the app did not recognize the file that was recorded with the free version.  I ended up loaning my iPad to Kendra for a couple of days so that she could complete typing up the transcript. 

The results of the focus group were very helpful.  We plan to repeat the process with every graduating cohort! Next time we will use the purchased version of iRecorder in order to take an advantage of file portability.

If anyone has ideas for the recording/transcribing process - please share.

NEJM This Week App

New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) has an app for the iPad or iPhone - NEJM This Week.  The app is free and includes numerous articles, images with interpretation, audio summaries of articles, and video tutorials.  The articles are on a variety of topics.  As an example, this week there are articles on implementation of healthcare reform in California, accountable care organizations, and a case study of a 9-month child with liver failure. Examples of videos include blood pressure measurement, chest-tube insertion, and paracentesis.  The videos are pertinent to medical and nursing students.  The quality of the videos is excellent! 

Holistic Care Issues

Interesting article - "Mystery Patients Help Uncover Medical Errors at http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2010-07-19/health/ct-met-mystery-patient-20100719_1_mystery-patients-medical-errors-physicians

Bottom line - explains that socioeconomic factors must be considered when assessing patient problems.  Although the article addresses physicians, the topic is certainly applicable to nursing.

Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows and Mac Computers

Keyboard shortcuts can save lots of time!  Sure you can use the right-click menu or use the application menu, but that entails using the mouse. 

Information about common keyboard shortcuts will be included in the 4th edition of Informatics & Nursing:  Competencies and Applications.

To learn more about keyboard shortcuts for Windows 7, go to
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Keyboard-shortcuts

To learn more about keyboard shortcuts for the Mac OS X, go to http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1343

The shortcuts in the websites above are very generic to other versions of the operating system.  Many of the shortcuts for Windows and the Mac are virtually the same.  Try it. On the Mac use the Command key instead of the Control key.  For example, to copy text on a Windows computer, use Control C; on the Mac computer, use Command C.

Loaning/borrowing a Kindle eBook

Amazon allows users to loan ebooks now.  You can read more from http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/ref=hp_200549320_receive?nodeId=200549320&#receive

From what I understand - the public library can be the lenderer or any one of us can loan our ebooks.  If I loan one of my ebooks, I will not be able to read it when the book is checked out.  The loan period is two weeks.  During that time, the borrower can "mark up" the book, but that will not be available to the lenderer when the book is returned.  The ebook can be loaned to a person only one time.  The second time, the borrower will be required to purchase the book. 

Wow!  What a terrific idea! 

Free Credit Card Bar Code Reader for Payment

If you have ever visited a large Apple store - like the one in San Francisco, you have probably experienced a salesperson who comes to you, offers to assist you,  and then completes the payment transaction - where you are standing in the store (as opposed to going to a cash register).  Well, the Square (https://squareup.com/), a free credit card bar code reader provides that ability to anyone.  Yes, it is FREE and soon should be available for pickup at any Apple store.  The Square works with the iPhone, iPad, and Androids.

Square charges the customer 2.75% per swipe.  It should be a huge assistance to small store owners who have traditionally had to purchase equipment.  Most of us the the US are dependent upon the use of "plastic" for purchases, rather than cash - so it is helpful to the consumer, too. 

Overall, the Square is an interesting concept to explore and follow.

Team Viewer - Another App to Share a Computer Desktop

Team Viewer is an app  that works just like Join.me.  It allows desktop sharing between a laptop/desktop and an iPad.  The non-commercial version of the app is free.  The shared desktop must be the laptop or desktop with Team Viewer software installed.  After opening the app, the user of the desktop/laptop is provided a login and password.  That information is shared with the remote user. Just like Join.me, the remote user can control the computer of the person who initiated the session. 

eBooks & eBook Readers

I attended a wonderful presentation about eBooks by a GC student, Emily Chamison, on Friday.  As a result, I plan to write several blogs about eBooks.

Emily shared an eBook that she had written with us.  You can download her eBook, Making eBooks,  from the Georgia College podcasting server at http://podcasting.usg.edu/4dcgi/podcasting/gcsu/episodes/95/15538.epub

This will serve to update earlier blogs on eBooks.  Below is a listing of common questions you may have about eBooks.

What eBook readers are available for laptop and desktop computers?

• Adobe - Digital Editions (http://www.adobe.com/products/digitaleditions/)
• Calibre (http://calibre-ebook.com/)
• Kobo (http://www.kobobooks.com/desktop )
• FB Reader (http://www.fbreader.org/downloads.php)
• IBIS Reader (http://ibisreader.com/  )
• Google Books (http://books.google.com/ebooks)
• Monocle Books (http://monocle.inventivelabs.com.au/)
• EpubReader (https://addons.mozilla.org/en-us/firefox/addon/epubreader/ ) Note: EPUBReader is an add-on for the Firefox web browser.

What eBook readers are available for mobile devices like the iPad, iPhone, and Android phones?

• iBooks (Apple mobile devices)
• Kobo
• Kindle (access to Amazon books)
• Nook (access to Barnes & Noble books)
• Google Books

I like the feel, touch, and smell of paper books.  What would I want an eBook?

• eBooks are often less expensive that paper books.
• Mobile devices make reading so easy!  Turn the pages by swiping the screen.  
• Depending upon the eBook reader, you can change the font type and size, write notes, and bookmark pages.  When you open an eBook that you are reading, you are automatically returned to where you left off.  
• You do not have to be "online" to read an eBook.  You only have to be online to download an eBook.
• Many rare and  historical books are not available at most libraries; however, they can be downloaded as eBooks.  Examples include books written by Florence Nightingale and Isabel Hampton Robb.
• The really great eBooks do not mimic printed books, instead they incorporate multimedia. Examples include video, images, and audio.

How Much is in a Byte?

The size of files and storage devicesis sometimes confusing.  How much is in a byte, megabyte, other? The website, How Much Data is That, at http://www.focus.com/images/view/52784/ may be hlepful by providing a visual comparison.

Catheter Related Bloodstream Infection Prevention Update

The CDC issued updated guidelines for prevention catheter related bloodstream infections at http://www.cdc.gov/hicpac/pdf/guidelines/bsi-guidelines-2011.pdf 

This is an important document for all healthcare providers who work with patients who have indwelling bloodstream catheters.

Map Projector with Google Maps

Map Projector with Google Maps is a $1.99 app for the iPad that allows you to create live maps and satellite imagery on the iPad.  You have the option of dropping colors "pins" on the map and adding descriptions.  The finished maps can be projected to a television or displayed to a screen with a projector. Wow!  I can see so many potential uses for the app.  It could be used in an online class to display where students and faculty are located.  It could also be used to depict disease outbreaks in an epidemiology class.  The maps can also be saved as a graphic and used on the design on course lesson. Just let you imagination go on with other ideas...

An example of a map created with the app is below.

Learning Using Comic Strip Methods

Last weekend I heard a wonderful presentation that discussed the use of Comic Strip CS (http://yourcomicstrip.com/), an app for the iPad and iPhone.  The app has won several awards. It costs $0.99.

This app allows the user to create their own "comic strip" using images in their photo library.  It includes templates, bubbles, etc.  In the teaching learning context, it could be used by students to depict course learning information.  It stimulates creativity and has the potential to make learning fun and interesting.

To read some reviews, go to http://appshopper.com/photography/comicstrip-cs

The example show above came from  http://www.appsmenow.com/app_page/10035-ComicStrip_-_CS

Facebook Privacy Guide

PC World published a wonderful article about Facebook and privacy settings in the February 2011 issue. The title of the article is "The Paranoid's Guide to Facebook" and it is available online at http://www.pcworld.com/article/210859/the_paranoids_guide_to_facebook.html

As noted in the article, over 1/2 BILLION people worldwide are using Facebook. In my interviews with faculty worldwide about global e-learning and the Internet - Facebook is commonly mentioned.

Read the article if you want simple, but helpful information on the following:

1. Disabling Facebook places
2. Controlling items posted to your profile
3. Hiding your app activity
4. Disabling Facebook apps
5. Controlling what your friends reveal
6. Deleting your Facebook account

Nursing Informatics Online Articles

Linda added a couple of new resources to the textbook website at http://dlthede.net/Informatics/Informatics.html

March 30, 2011 Canadian Journal of Nursing Informatics. Edited by June Kaminski, this is a peer-reviewed online quarterly journal started in 2006. (Added March 30, 2011)
http://cjni.net/journal/?p=1094

March 30, 2011 Kaminski, June. (2011). Theory applied to informatics – Lewin’s Change Theory. Canadian Journal of Nursing Informatics (6)1. (Chapter 18)
http://cjni.net/journal/?p=1210

Online Meeting app

Recently, I shared information about join.me, a free app that allows for monitor sharing. This past weekend I learned about an app that allows for a online meetings - FuzeMe. A free trial service is available. To learn more go to http://www.fuzemeeting.com/

What is unique about this app is that it works with all mobile devices. The invitation data is imported from your device contact list. The monthly fee for the regular product makes the app less desirable for educators. At any rate, the app is worth exploring.

Whiteboard Sharing app

This weekend I attended the Southern Regional Faculty Development and Instructional Consortium (SRFDIC)meeting at Auburn University. Besides lots of networking with great friends, the presentations were fantastic. Those of us with iPads had a terrific time sharing apps. Whiteboard sharing (http://www.greengar.com/apps/whiteboard/ ) is an interesting concept. It allows two devices (iPhones and iPads) to connect via wifi to share drawings. I experimented with my iPhone and iPad this morning. I noted a few seconds time lag, but it worked flawlessly! It might be useful when designing models to convey concepts collaboratively.

Learning with Notecards app

Zen.do (http://www.zen.do/)is a new beta app that allows users to take notes and create flash cards at the same time.  This app does not work with Internet Explorer, so use the Firefox web browser. What is unique about this app is a review mode that allows users to score their grasp of material. Users create a login and password to use the service. Wow!! This app will be so helpful to learners! View the vido below to learn more. 

Zinc to Treat Common Cold

Read an interesting review about using zinc to treat the common cold at http://pubget.com/paper/21328251.  It would be wonderful to have a means to prevent and/or reduce the symptoms of the annoying illness. 

Backing Up and Recovering Computer Data

Microsoft has an excellent article about backing up and recovering computer data at http://www.microsoft.com/athome/setup/backupdata.aspx.  Since Wayne and I  have had two laptops to "die" within the past couple of months, having a backup has particular importance.  I have the fourth edition of the textbook backed up in four places.

It is important to understand what files or folders that need to be backed up.  For example, while it may be common sense to back up My Documents or Documents folder, what about email or other files?  I use Respondus and StudyMate Author.  The files that I create with those two programs are stored in the Programs folder, not the Documents folder.  Likewise, email is not stored in the Documents folder.  The truth to having an effective back up is like the saying - "the Devil is in the details." 

Students and Technology Use

Have spent many hours analyzing research data this week.  Our findings show marked similarities with the ECAR study (http://net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/ERS1006/RS/ERS1006W.pdf).  The study is a worthwhile read for faculty in higher education. 

Microsoft Office 2010

I upgraded to Microsoft Office 2010 on my Windows computers the past couple of weeks.  Users are prompted to open a website with resources to learn the new features.  As an example, there is a video showing the new slicer and sparklines featured in Excel and the ability to embed the code in a website as noted below. There will be additional information about Office 2010 in the 4th edition of our Nursing and Informatics textbook.

Popplet

Popplet (http://popplet.com/)%20is a concept mapping app available for the personal computer (PC) and iPad.  It really is amazingly simple to use.  It allows you to use color, text, drawing, images, and video into linked concepts or popplets.  After you have created the concept map you can share it with others.  The PC version allows you to copy and embed code or share using email.  The iPad version allows you to share the concept map as a PDF (have to purchase the full version of the app) or email the file as a jpg image.

It could be used to create a concept map related to patient care.  I especially like the ability to incorporate media so easily!

Noun Project - Access to Symbols & Icons

The Noun Project (http://www.thenounproject.com/) provides free (no fee) access to symbols & icons using the Creative Commons license. You can search by category:

• Animals
• Food & Beverage
• Healthcare & Wellness
• People
• Safety & Warnings
• Science & Math
• Sports & Recreation
• Tech & Communication
• Transportation
• Travel & Wayfinding
• Weather & Nature

The site works with Safari, Opera, Chrome, but not Internet Explorer. It is a site worth exploring. 

Humanitarian Efforts in the Light of Crisis

My thoughts and prayers go to all of the people affected by the earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear plant malfunctions in Japan!   I am impressed with the humanitarian responses by Google and Skype.  Google has a crisis response website at http://www.google.com/crisisresponse/japanquake2011.html  It includes amazing resources ranging from how to make a donation, how to find people, and the planned blackout times.  Skype (http://www.skype.com/) is offering free wifi access for Japan using Skype Access.  While it will take years for the areas that were hardest hit to recover, hopefully, the acts of kindness will help heal some of the pain and suffering of individuals who were impacted from the tragedy.

Wikis for Educational Purposes

Wikis continue to be popular in the educational setting.  A couple of weeks ago I received an email noting that Wikispaces is now available for higher education without advertising.  Of course, Wikispaces has had that feature for K-12 for a long time.  I signed up and received approval about 24 hours later. 
There are other wiki alternatives available.  This morning I found PBWorks.  It is available free (just one site) for non-commercial uses.  It allows up to 100 users with 2 GB storage.  I did not have to apply for use in higher education.  It looks like a great alternative for the educational setting. 

Wordle and Cloud Tags

I am doing a review of papers for a conference and ran across a new app that allows the user to create tags - Wordle (http://www.wordle.net/).  What I especially like is that the site allows the user to "own" the image that is created with the words.  The app is worth exploring.

PowerPoint 2010

I have written about PowerPoint 2010, but just got it installed on my work computers this past week.  I am looking forward to using the video editing features that are built into the program.  I have been slowly learning new video skills to use in planning teaching/learning lessons.  Although I don't use PowerPoint often, it can be effective.  To learn more, go to http://blogs.office.com/b/microsoft-powerpoint/archive/2011/03/03/ready-to-test-your-hollywood-skills-create-impressive-video-presentations-in-powerpoint-video.aspx

Markle Foundation - HIT Report

The Markly Foundation released a report comparing the views on health information technology by physicians and patients.  To view the 9 page report click here

Reducing Catheter Associated Bloodstream Infections

The CDC Vital Signs (http://www.cdc.gov/VitalSigns/HAI/index.htmlpublication ) noted that there was a 58% reduction in bloodstream associated catheter infections from 2001-2009. A detailed report of the progress is available from MMWR at http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6008a4.htm?s_cid=mm6008a4_w

Students in the NCLEX prep class read discussed several articles pertinent to care this past week.  One of the articles was "Walk the Walk to Reduce Catheter-Related BloodStream Infections" in The American Nurse (http://www.nursingworld.org/mods/mod492/Bloodstream-Infections.pdf ).  The article detailed the evidence-based procedure for cleansing the port of a central line.  Some of the students noted that the procedure was followed in clinical sites where they were working, but not all.  It all relates back to standards of care issues that we discuss in the Legal and Ethical Nursing class.  As professional nurses, we must stay current with literature and not blindly follow hospital procedures.  Differences should be reported to hospital management. Our patients' lives depend upon us.

SKYPE for the Classroom

SKYPE has unveiled an app designed for the classroom.  You can read more about it at http://education.skype.com/about.  It is still in beta format.  It will be interesting to discover how teachers are able to use the application in the teaching/learning process. 

Google Docs Support of New Microsoft, Apple, and Adobe Extensions

Google now supports 12 new extensions from Microsoft, Apple, and Adobe extensions in Google viewer. The announcement was made February 18th.  You can read more at http://googledocs.blogspot.com/2011/02/12-new-file-formats-in-google-docs.html

Nursing Informatics Workforce Survey

Linda added the following resource to the textbook website at http://dlthede.net/Informatics/Informatics.html

February 24, 2011 2011 HIMSS Nursing Informatics Workforce Survey. The HIMSS 2011 Nursing Informatics Workforce Survey builds on research that HIMSS released in 2004 and in 2007. Survey continues to suggest that nurse informaticists play critical role in the implementation of various clinical applications including clinical/nursing documentation and clinical information systems, computerized practitioner order entry (CPOE) and electronic medical/health records. Excellent information! (Chapter 18)

http://www.himss.org/content/files/2011HIMSSNursingInformaticsWorkforceSurvey.pdf

Countering Security Threats Due to Criminal Malware

Linda added the following resource to the textbook website at http://dlthede.net/Informatics/Informatics.html
February 23, 2011 InfoWorld iGuide: Security threats and countermeasures. Interactive guide to criminal malware, the risks to your company from both external and internal threats, and the steps you can take to guard against them including links to more information (Chapter 21).


http://www.infoworld.com/d/security-central/infoworld-iguide-security-threats-and-countermeasures-480?source=ifwelg_fssr#

iPad Apps for Education

Martha shared a gem of  resource - a listing of iPad apps for education.  I am copying the list below.  Hope that you find one or more of them helpful!
1. Teach with Your iPad
http://teachwithyouripad.wikispaces.com/  

2. Apps for Education - Assistive and children
http://www.connsensebulletin.com/2011/01/apps-for-education-update/

3. 26 Apps to Up Your Productivity
http://adrianbruce.com/teacher-toolbox/26-ipad-apps-to-up-your-productivity-learning/

4. iPadSchools
http://ipadschools.wikispaces.com/

5. iPads in Education
http://ipadineducation.co.uk/iPad_in_Education/Welcome.html

6. Apple's Rewind 2010 - Best Apps
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewMultiRoom?fcId=402041463

7. IEAR App Awards (Science and Math apps)
https://spreadsheets.google.com/lv?key=0AoiJs2gxg9KmdE1RQmtoanZpdnBlT0Vvam5jRDEwVWc&hl=en&authkey=CK6twdsC  

8. 40 iPad Apps That Librarians Will Love
http://www.onlinecolleges.org/40-ipad-apps-that-librarians-love/

9. Top 140 Best iPad Apps
http://www.techradar.com/news/computing/apple/top-100-best-ipad-apps-681998?artc_pg=1&resize=003304d3-204d-4884-898f-f8350835c7ca&oldsize=160x600

10. HC iPad User Group favorite apps (Mobile, History/Geography/Economics, Sharing, Art/Drawing/Brainstorming, Bible, Voice Recording, News/Podcast, Reading/Books, Science, Math, Physical Education, Brain Games, Applications for Finding Apps, & General Apps)
http://walden.hollandchristian.org/groups/hcipadusergroup/wiki/19d60/Favorite_Apps.html

11. 30 Useful IPad Apps for Business and Presentation
http://www.hongkiat.com/blog/useful-ipad-apps-for-business-presentation/

12. Apple's Recommendations - Check Both iPad and iPad/iPhone links (English Language Arts, English Language Development, Math, Science, History/Geography, Art/Music/Creativity, Health/Physical Education, Language)
http://www.apple.com/education/apps/

13. Escondido SD App Spreadsheet (A listing of apps by pertinent school grade levels)
https://spreadsheets.google.com/lv?key=tenru11ELMGfma9kDka2moQ&type=view&gid=0&f=true&sortcolid=0&sortasc=true&rowsperpage=250

14. Acalanes SD App List
https://sites.google.com/site/learningcontinuity/with-ipads

Searching for Apps

A. AppAnnie Top 500 Charts
http://www.appannie.com/top/

B. App Guide from MacWorld - iPad
http://www.macworld.com/appguide/browse.html?compat=iPad

C. Appolicious
http://www.appolicious.com/

D. AppShopper Top 200 Education
http://appshopper.com/bestsellers/education/free/?device=ipad

Creating Slideshow Movies on the iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch Devices

In a few months, I will be writing a chapter entitled "There's an App for That" - and I am really looking forward to the experience :-).  I am always on the lookout for simple and powerful ways to enhance the teaching/learning experience.  I stumbled across an app that allows users to create slideshow movies on the iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch devices with the capability to upload the movies to YouTube.  The app is called Sonic Pics (http://www.sonicpics.com/).  The free version is "crippled" because it allows the use of only 3 images.  That said, it certainly demonstrates the app.  The cost to purchase the app is $2.99.  The app website includes videos that step the user through the process.

This app may be a perfect solution for faculty in the GC Faculty Development Workshop using the iPad. We will be covering podcasting in an upcoming workshop.  Sonic Pics may not be as robust as using KeyNote and GarageBand, and iTunes, but it is certainly a reasonable alternative. 

PollDaddy and SoftChalk

  The past two weeks, I used clickers (TurningPoint) in class and the students really liked the anonymous polling.  I decided to try to have a few online class meetings in my legal and ethical issues class - so how to replicate that experience? 

All of my face-to-face classes are "hybrid" classes, meaning that the course resources are all in a learning management system.  I had designed the lessons using SoftChalk, so I needed an online polling solution.  I decided to use PollDaddy.  I selected a court case study from the textbook and entered the questions into PollDaddy - along with some choices for answers.  PollDaddy provides the "code" that you can copy/paste for web pages.  I copied the code and then opened my course lesson in the HTML view - and copied the code.  All I could see in SoftChalk was "Script" buttons.  However, when I previewed the poll in a web browser it looked PERFECT!!  Yesterday I made the announcement to the students that the poll was open.  Today a third of the students have already take the poll and are split 50/50 on the answers.  They are looking forward to hearing feedback about how the case was decided in court. 

Polling, whether done in the classroom or online is phenomenal resource! 

Wifi Hacking Problem

One of my friends experienced fraud recently.  There is a rash of fraud involving debit cards at the university.  I read in the newspaper this morning about a new free app that cybercriminals are using to hack debit cards.  You can read more about the problem at http://www.indianexpress.com/news/new-hacking-tools-pose-bigger-threats-to-wifi-users/752559/

Violation of HIPAA - $4.3 million penalty

HHS imposed a $4.3 million civil money penalty for violations of the HIPAA Privacy Rule on Cignet Health of Prince George’s County, Md.  According to the news CIGNET refused to allow 41 patients access to their medical records between September 2008 and October 2009.  This was the first civil penalty that HHS has issued for HIPAA violation.  Read more at http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2011pres/02/20110222a.html

Another Data Breach

Tracy shared this article noting another data breach, this time at the Charleston, West Virginia Medical Center.  Read the article in Modern Healthcare.  It is clear that although IT provides the opportunity for significant benefits - there are dangers when facilities do not make certain that information is secure. 

Join.me

Discovered a new app that allows users to share the desktop of a Mac or PC with others who have a mobile device, such as an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch (probably works with  Droids, too). The FREE app is Join.me https://join.me/.  Participants can also use the app to share files and chat. 

Nursing Podcasts

Nursing Schools.net posts podcasts of interest to nursing at
http://www.nursingschools.net/blog/2011/02/50-awesomely-educational-podcasts-for-nurses/

According to the website, the podcasts come from nursing journals, news, and other resources.  You may find something of interest on the site. 

Central-line Catheter Bloodstream Infection Prevention

In an earlier blog I discussed central-line bloodstream catheter infections and the reporting system in the state of Maryland.  The IHI has published resources to reduce the problems, Prevent Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections.  The resources are free and can be downloaded from http://www.ihi.org/IHI/Programs/Campaign/CentralLineInfection.htm

Creating Videos for the Web

The first three days of class were cancelled at Georgia College this semester because of snow and ice.  I had all of my courses, except one, were designed in a hybrid mode, but not stand alone online.  Since timing of getting courses started was a critical factor, I created several podcasts to introduce the course syllabi, calendar, and navigation.  The Mac laptop (KeyNote, GarageBand, iTunes) and the free Elluminate headset (give-away at a conference last year) were immensely helpful.

After I created the podcasts, I uploaded them to the GC podcasting server.  One student had difficulties viewing them, so I also uploaded the PowerPoint equivalent (no audio).  The podcasts served as a work around to assist the students to get started on their courses.
We began a new series of Faculty Development workshops yesterday.  My goal is to improve the quality of my podcasts and to share resources that I discover helpful with everyone.

One of the education listservs that I follow has a very nice resource designed to help others create video for the web.  The resource is designed by Richard Byrne.  It is online at http://issuu.com/richardbyrne/docs/making-videos-on-the-web/1

ICU eLearning

The Society of Critical Care Medicine has an elearning website at http://www.learnicu.org/Pages/default.aspx  Interesting resources! 

Ergonomics

Linda added two resources to the textbook website at http://dlthede.net/Informatics/Informatics.html

January 23, 2011 Cornell University Ergonomics Site. (Chapter 21)

Guidelines for arranging a Computer Workstation - 10 steps for users. Just as the title says, this site has 10 steps with links to more information on some of the topics.
http://ergo.human.cornell.edu/ergoguide.html

Workplace Ergonomics Tools. Links to great information such as tips for using laptops, tips for alleviating pain when using a computer, and many evaluation tools for items such as keyboards and mouse.. In short, a handbook for ergonomics for computers and other items.
http://ergo.human.cornell.edu/cutools.html

Medicare Website

Medicare has developed a "consumer friendly" website at http://www.medicare.gov/Default.aspx
It includes links to compare hospitals, nursing homes, and way to find a doctor.  Consumers can search for physicians that accept Medicare as full payment. The site is worth exploring.