The End Complete

I decided to add DigIn to my SIRLS MA because I know digital collections will play an increasingly important role in the future of libraries and archives. Prior to this course, my only real exposure to the technical side of computing came during IRLS 571 in fall semester 2009. Success in that class encouraged me to pursue further studies, which brought me to 672 this summer. I entered both classes apprehensive that I might not be able to keep up, and afraid that my classmates would be starting well ahead of me in their experience and understanding. Fortunately, my fears were largely unfounded.

I liken my experience so far to learning a new language (which is essentially what we’re doing). Eleven weeks ago I understood basic computer functions – hardware, software, networks, etc. Today that understanding has been reinforced by an additional layer; namely, the LAMP stack. Except for phpMyAdmin, I had actually heard of the other three components before this summer, but had never used them. Before 672 I had no real understanding of how digital collections were designed or implemented. I knew databases formed a critical component, but couldn’t articulate much beyond that. Today I have an elementary appreciation for how they work and the underlying architecture. Obviously, I am far from prepared to actually apply this limited knowledge to a real-world project, but I know enough to feel attuned to the language and characteristics of digital collections. I think this stuff is new enough to me that I haven’t had any major changes in perspective yet, probably because my initial perspective was so undeveloped. But, if I’ve gained a greater appreciation for one aspect, it’s database design. I’ve toyed with Access a little in the past, but it wasn’t until our units on databases that I really began to realize how complicated database design really is.

This was my first DigIn class so, of course, there’s a long way to go. And I’m not going to lie, I still feel a little apprehensive about 675 this fall. I often worry that one week I won’t get the material, and I’ll fall behind and never catch up. But, at the same time, I’m excited to continue. There’s a certain satisfaction in being able to make a computer do what you want, especially when the results are displayed in a browser. Somehow, browser displays seem more tangible. So I’m going to call this class a success, hope I don’t forget what I learned over a couple weeks break, and pick up where we left off in 675.