Thoughts on Learning Commons, Inquiry and Literacy

This final theme of the course centred on identifying and applying specific reference materials – indexes, bibliographies, biographies, encyclopledias, dictionaries and maps. These continue to be valuable resources, however their uses and formats are rapidly evolving through the use of technology and both students and teachers require increasing support in how to effectively navigate them and apply their information. With the increased focus on effective integration of technologies, classrooms are moving away from more traditional formats (books and paper) and exploring online and digital reference sources.  As teacher librarians we must provide excellent reference services in the area of technological literacy and master the three key qualities, described by Riedling (2005): 1) knowledge of electronic resources, 2) excellent communication skills to train teachers and students in effective use of these resources and 3) competence in selecting and assessing the highest qual...

Analysis The library space at this school is well-equipped with computers, has ready access to a colour printer, contains movable tables and chairs, comfortable couches for reading and sitting, rolling book carts that can easily be moved and a Smart Board. This space has been visually and practically transformed into a functional Library Learning Commons – technology is encouraged and available, the physical space is easily transformed for the variety of meeting needs of the school community, the district supplies a trained Teacher Librarian at .7, teachers and admin are beginning to see the SLLC and the TL as learning partners - rather than resource guardians.  During recent renovations the TL engaged in a thorough weeding of the SLLC print reference collection removing many outdated and underused reference text materials. The remaining collection appears to be up-to-date and relevant.  Spontaneous student use of reference materials is mostly limited to factbook...