Why should I schedule library instruction for my class?
Students entering college bring with them a diverse range of information seeking capabilities. As educators we have a shared obligation to instruct students on how to effectively and efficiently access current, accurate, and authoritative information.
Library instruction provides an opportunity for students of ALL levels to develop an increased awareness of the resources available to them. Library instruction will assist students by reinforcing research skills and familiarizing them with the resources necessary for a successful college experience. [page top]
How do I know if my students need library instruction?
Information access and delivery changes rapidly and library instruction can help bridge the gaps. Library instruction in conjunction with a research project can help produce better results.
Assessment tests are available to be distributed to your class in order to assess their research skill level. Drop the completed tests at the reference desk and a librarian will be happy to score them and provide you with detailed feedback. [page top]
What if my students have already had library instruction?
Developing a solid foundation of research skills cannot be achieved in a handful of one hour instructional sessions, but must occur over time in a student’s course of study.
Library instruction sessions may be scheduled to cater specifically to a course’s content or research topic. For example, a research class in Music would receive instruction in such databases as RILM Abstracts of Music Literature and Classical Music Library. [page top]
What kinds of instruction are available?
Actual and Virtual tours of the facilities at Carlson Library
Orientation (for new students) of Carlson Library and its services
Skills and Composition Classes - for a strong foundation in research skills
Upper-division specialization in course content area. Private appointments (Individual or group) for all students, faculty and staff
Online tutorial - useful for Distant Learning classes
Outreach programs - The University Libraries supports the community by assisting underserved, non-traditional students as well as local high schools. Groups may come to the Carlson Library or schedule library services as outreach [page top]
Does my class have to meet in the library for instruction?
While meeting at a library location is preferable because resources are more readily available, library instruction does not have to occur at these locations. Library instructors will come to your classroom or a campus lab that you have reserved.
The library has three classrooms for library instruction:
CL 1025 - accommodates 34 students at laptop computers
CL 1027- accommodates 34 students at laptop computers
CL 1035 - accomodates 24 students at laptop computers
CL 2000 (alternate)- accommodates 40 students with laptop computers (to be checked out at the circulation desk by each student before the session begins.) [page top]
Do I need to be present during library instruction?
Instructors are highly encouraged to attend library instructional sessions for various reasons:
Who will provide library instruction to my class?
Information and subject specialty librarians who are experts in information access and retrieval of the newest print and electronic resources. [page top]
Can I provide my own instruction without a librarian?
Policy dictates that a librarian must be associated with and be responsible for the instruction session. With the aid of a librarian, a faculty member may conduct his or her own library instruction. [page top]
When is the best time to schedule library instruction?
Please contact us as early as possible. We encourage instructors to allow 2 weeks notice for library instruction. Instruction is available any time during the fall, spring and summer sessions. [page top]
Should I schedule more than one library session?
After formal instruction, students may encounter problems or have further questions regarding the resources that were introduced in the first session. Subsequent library sessions may be scheduled with a librarian as individual research time to provide assistance for problems and questions that may occur. [page top]
