BELIEFS ABOUT EDUCATION

1. We believe that learning should be more active than passive.

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WHAT THIS MEANS FOR LIBRARIANS

1. A. ALWAYS keep this in mind when giving mini-lessons. E.G. If you are explaining the use of a computerized periodical index, keep it short, and then give students plenty of guided hands-on time. Important usage information should be posted near the computer.

B. Consider the individual learner. E.G. Given the time, librarians should allow a baffled student to use the card catalog herself. Don't expect the student to stand behind you as you leaf through U.S. History - Civil War. Explain that U.S. History is chronological not alphabetical and wait to see that she's on the right track. Not only does this give active learning time to the student, but it expects her to use her knowledge of history. ("Hm, does the Civil War come before or after Westward Expansion?")

WHAT ASSESSMENT MIGHT LOOK LIKE

Note: One type of assessment has been matched with a specific trend only as example . Please remember that there is much overlap and these methods may apply to other situations!

1. You will find that many of these beliefs make assessment more difficult but far more valuable.
A. For one research paper, the teacher and the librarian may wish to assign a "log" which would keep track of the process of researching and would be handed in with the first draft of the project. This might include a running commentary on using the CD-Rom periodical index. Comments such as these would be evidence of critical thinking: " My paper is on boy-girl relationship in society. When I search the index for ''dating' I came up with 'carbon dating! So I narrowed my search by including other descriptors."

B. In order to evaluate independent users' library skills, the teacher and the librarian could each keep a class list handy during research times. As strategies and skills come to the attention of the adults, they could jot down comments. (e.g. "Susan found the necessary item in the card catalog under U.S. History with only my mentioning 'chronological order'." ) It is certainly overwhelming to consider keeping records similar to these on the whole school all the time. Therefore, it is important to start small and work with one class during one project in the beginning.

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