What it is
Course related library
instruction refers to single or multiple class sessions taught by a library
faculty member. Classes are intended to introduce students to library research
strategies and the basic information sources available. Working with the
classroom instructor, the librarian can tailor the instruction to the specific
needs of the class. |
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What it can do
Help reduce library anxiety
Help students with a specific assignment
Teach students to focus and narrow a topic
Teach students to identify the type of information they need
Teach students to find books
Teach students to find book reviews
Teach students to find plays, poems or short stories
Teach students to find articles
Teach students to find statistics
Teach students to find government information
Teach students to use a specific database (i.e., Lexis-Nexis Academic)
Teach students to search the Web
Teach students to distinguish scholarly vs. popular materials
Teach students to evaluate resources
Teach students about the research tools in a specific discipline
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Make it count
Focus on a research project
The most effective
library instruction is tied to a class assignment when students can
often be convinced of the benefit of the information they are receiving
(i.e., if you listen to me for the next hour you can save time, write
a better paper and get a better grade). Consider timing your instruction
session to coincide with the beginning of a research assignment.
Also, your subject
librarian is available to work with you to create an effective library
assignment. This could be instead of or in addition to a research project. |
Attend a session with your students
Experience shows that students benefit more from library instruction when their professors attend the session with them.
Your presence is strongly encouraged because it:
offers the opportunity for you to relate your own research experience to
the material the librarian presents,
conveys the importance of learning research skills,
maintains your currency with the library's research tools
encourages
student attendance,/
prevents
behavior problems during the library instruction session, and
allows
you to provide feedback to the librarian so the session may be improved
in the future.
If you must miss the
class, please consult with the librarian. He or she may suggest ways to
ensure your students' attendance and active participation. |
Where does instruction take place?
Classes are generally taught in the Library Education Room (MLIB 226). This has
the added benefit of getting the students into the library. However, librarians
have been known to leave the building and come to your classroom or department
lab to teach, especially if that classroom is a smart classroom. |
I'm convinced. Where do I sign up?
You can set up an
instruction session for your class by using our library instruction
request form, contacting Dorcas Erickson in the Library Instruction office at (530)898-6361 or via email derickson@csuchico.edu, or contacting
your subject
librarian. Feel free to check the Meriam Library Room 226 reservation schedule
for room availability.
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