Candidates identify and provide support for diverse student information needs.
Reflection
One of the most common questions I was asked during my internship was "Where can I find __________." Often students would ask at the circulation desk before they would attempt to find it themselves. When I would ask them "have you looked in the schools catalog?" Their answer was usually, "where is that?" One of the key roles of the media specialist is to identify and provide support for diverse student information needs. This often means listening to the student's question and then teaching that student the best way to find the answer.
One simple way to support the diverse learner is to ensure that students know where to start. When I look around my internship library there is very little in the way of signage that directs the students to resources. Of course they are going to come to the circulation desk...there is a person there with the answers. A way to cut down on the questions and empower students is to create signage that walks them through everyday research processes. |
Artifacts
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During the Organization and Access class, I created posters that walked students through the process of accessing and using the library catalog. Before creating these posters I considered the diverse needs that my students may have. I used my conclusions to create the posters. The elementary poster uses simple language, images, and bright colors to help students find what they are looking for. The secondary poster is bilingual, and uses QR codes, images and steps to guide students through the system. Both could be printed and posted next to student computers as a guide to finding information.
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Another way to support student information needs is to create a Information Sources Website with links to commonly asked questions and useful information. This website could serve as the homepage for student computers or link off of the media center's website. In my Information Sources Website I have included links to free government resources, educational websites, and databases that are categorized by grade level. It also includes visual and written instructions on how to use the more popular databases. I hope that through the use of visual markers, and step by step instructions the audio/visual learners will find it easier to access information. The site also includes pathfinders connected to the different curricular units offered in my school. The Holocaust Pathfinder can be used with English 9's reflection unit and with US History and Modern World History. The pathfinder includes links to articles, books, images, and video that will help students of all learning styles and needs access the information. When I use this website within my own library I plan to add a citation resources page to help assist students with using information responsibly. I would also add a staff resources page with professional links about teaching that would allow staff to explore ways that they can support the needs of our diverse learning culture.
It is amazing how much diverse information is filtered through the library...it is our job as librarians to ensure that students are able to find the information they need, both in and out of school. Throughout my coursework I have learned that helping students with their information needs is about more then finding the information. It is about listening to them, asking questions, and identifying what their needs are. Then using my knowledge of the resources offered in my library I can help them find what they need. With this understanding I have become a better listener and observer. I have realized that students will not always ask for what they need, but once they find it and realize that I care about their needs, they will keep coming back. The best way to do that is to show them how to find information.
It is amazing how much diverse information is filtered through the library...it is our job as librarians to ensure that students are able to find the information they need, both in and out of school. Throughout my coursework I have learned that helping students with their information needs is about more then finding the information. It is about listening to them, asking questions, and identifying what their needs are. Then using my knowledge of the resources offered in my library I can help them find what they need. With this understanding I have become a better listener and observer. I have realized that students will not always ask for what they need, but once they find it and realize that I care about their needs, they will keep coming back. The best way to do that is to show them how to find information.