Not sure what we can teach your students? A librarian can visit your class to provide instruction on a variety of topics, ranging from accessing and exploring library resources, to more in-depth discussion and analysis of appropriate information sources. Check out the Library Instruction Menu for an array of options.
Depending on your desired learning outcomes (and the course), one session may be sufficient; however, if your students haven’t previously been introduced to the library and have a research assignment for your class (e.g., in an FYS or intro level course), two sessions are highly recommended.
The list of menu options is not exhaustive, so if there are other resources or topics you would like addressed that are not mentioned here, we're happy to discuss the options with you. Please contact Andrew Smith (Instruction Librarian) with any questions and to customize your library session(s)!
The concepts listed below are derived from the Association of College and Research Libraries' Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education (2015). Where applicable, click the link to learn more about each concept.
| Learning Outcomes | Topics Covered | Related Concepts |
|---|---|---|
| Locating Relevant Resources |
Defining the research question Identifying keywords and related search terms Using specific databases and resources appropriate for the subject area Revising search strategies Saving articles and citations Using the Interlibrary Loan service |
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| Developing Effective Search Strategies |
Combining search terms Using Boolean operators Using appropriate limiters and search fields for efficiently locating potential sources |
Searching As Strategic Exploration |
| Distinguishing Source Types; Determining a Source's Relevance or Usefulness |
Recognizing various source types and their usefulness Identifying the information need(s) for a project Understanding a source's intended audience and purpose Discussing peer review, scholarship, and the publication process/cycle |
Authority Is Constructed and Contextual |
| Evaluating Internet Sources for Credibility |
Evaluating online sources for credibility and usefulness Learning strategies for tracking down key information sources used in online publications |
Authority Is Constructed and Contextual |
The Library Instruction Menu was adapted from and inspired by Radford University's McConnell Library and University of Findlay's Shafer Library.
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©2019 Abell Library Center | Austin College, 900 N. Grand Avenue, Sherman, TX 75090-4400 | Phone: (903) 813-2236 Please direct comments or questions about this website to Andrew Smith. |
