Lesson 2: Reflection – Information Skills Framework and Research Models

I am glad that I have been introduced to these different approaches because as a Teacher-Librarian I will be collaborating with teachers who may all be using different models.  If I were a TL I feel that it is important to promote an “Information Skills Framework”. I think the needs might be slightly different between the early primary grades and the intermediate grades. I would like to sit down at both the primary and intermediate team meetings to listen to the approaches that they are using in their classrooms and I would like see if we could come up with a model that we could agree upon. Then we could create a poster in kid friendly language to put up in the library, computer lab, LST rooms, and their classrooms, and the library website. For intermediate students I think the “Research Quest” model is a great one to use. For primary students, I would use the “Research Quest” model but simplify the language and use pictures to illustrate the steps so it is easier for them to conceptualize. Because the grade three students would find this process more manageable, after they have done a couple of research projects, I would have them create a slideshow or imovie, illustrating the steps for the younger grades as they worked through it on their own projects. Having students teach and learn from each other is a mutually beneficial learning experience for them all.  One request I always have of our “Big Buddy Class” is that they share with their little grade one buddy the Research projects that they do and talk about the process. We do the same for them. This might be nice for other classes to do once in awhile as well and as the TL this is something I could facilitate. It would be great to see students talking about the Information Literacy skills that they are developing. 

Another thing that I think I would do is take the Learning Outcomes that have been developed in “Achieving Information Literacy” by the CASL and rewrite them with the students as Learning Intentions and use them for Assessment for Learning criteria which they could use for evaluation. These Learning Outcomes can be used to guide powerful discussions for self assessment. These statements of learning can be clearly articulated to parents as well when they come down to the library. This Framework for the Information Literacy Program will be one that I keep handy and refer to often. I will definitely be sharing it with teachers at meetings to discuss research and information literacy skills.

Riedling, A. (2005). Reference SkillsFor the School Library Media Specialist: Tools and Tips, 2^nd Edition. Ohio: Linworth Publishing, Inc.

CASL. (2003). Achieving Information Literacy: Standards for School Library Programs in Canada. Ottawa: Canadian School Library Association.