Ann Whitney Gleason - New Methods of Teaching and Learning in Libraries

ROWMAN & LITTLEFIELD

Lanham Boulder New York London

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

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Description: | Includes bibliographical references and index.

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TM The paper used in this publication meets the minimum requirements of American National Standard for Information Sciences Permanence of Paper for Printed Library Materials, ANSI/NISO Z39.48-1992.

Printed in the United States of America

Throughout history, libraries have always been about gathering knowledge and providing education. Since the days of the great library of Alexandria, libraries have served as centers of teaching and learning. This book focuses on new methods of teaching and learning in libraries and presents possible directions for the future of teaching and learning in libraries. A solid background in teaching and learning methods and practices is given as an introduction. Emerging models of library instruction and library support of instruction will be presented with practical ways that libraries of all types can implement some of these new models. Increasingly, librarians are called upon to partner with educational faculty and community members to deliver content and support innovative educational initiatives. Since libraries reach across academic disciplines and provide resources for the greater community, they are uniquely positioned to provide services and technologies that are available to many, bringing innovation out of silos and facilitating cross-community collaborations. More and more, education is reaching beyond institutional walls and becoming a global enterprise, promising to increase educational opportunities around the world. Topics of educational innovation in libraries and the implications for planning for future services and programs will be presented.

New Methods of Teaching and Learning in Libraries aims to offer librarians beginning their practice of library instruction the background information and practical guidelines needed for success. Those interested in improving their instructional practice should also find topics of interest. In addition, each chapter offers new directions for delivering instruction in both physical and virtual spaces, using many different types of tools and technologies. The book is divided into three main areas of focus:

• Part I: Teaching and Learning Practices in Library Instruction

• Part II: Using Educational Technology to Scaffold Learning

• Part III: Facilitating Learning in Library Spaces

Background knowledge of teaching methods, educational theories, and teaching practices provides a good starting place for librarians who are called to teach in their institutions. In order to truly engage and motivate students to learn, knowledge of effective teaching methods and tools is essential. In part I, we will explore teaching methods and practices as well as guidelines for planning, delivering, and assessing educational instruction in libraries. Creative ideas, sample lesson plans, and advice from practicing librarians will be presented.

Chapter 1 focuses on the background environment of teaching and learning in libraries. It also presents an overview of learning theories and pedagogical methods. Chapter 2 focuses on teaching students skills for career success, including critical thinking, problem solving, information literacy, and evidence-based practice instruction. Active learning using group work and collaboration, problem-based learning, and other topics will be explored as ways to encourage higher-order thinking skills. Methods of planning for instruction and assessing student learning, as well as tips for improving library instruction programs, will be explored.

Chapter 3 focuses on teaching beyond the library walls, including discussions of embedded librarianship, teaching through online guides, videos, and tutorials, as well as using web conferencing and massive online open courses (MOOCs). Practical guidelines for integrating instruction with online course management systems (CMS) are presented. A well-designed CMS can be instrumental in flipping the classroom so that valuable in-class time is spent honing skills for lifelong learning. Global education initiatives and mHealth are also discussed. Open educational resources (OERs) and sharing of educational materials in learning communities will be explored.