This article details the context and design considerations for an online course accompanying a field-based practicum for a school librarian certification program at a regional university in Texas. These strategies could be helpful to other library science educators designing learning experiences that support fieldwork. We conclude by discussing…

While the collaborative trend among professional social workers and librarians gains traction and attention, literature about the utilization of student social workers partnering with libraries is non-existent. Over 64,000 students are currently enrolled in master-level social work (MSW) programs throughout the United States and nearly all are…

This case study analyzes the use of library school interns on subject-based teams for the social sciences, humanities, and sciences in the San Jose State University Library. Interns worked closely with team librarians on reference, collection development/management, and instruction activities. In a structured focus group, interns reported that the…

Results of a study to determine the number of library schools offering various types of field experience programs for their students. (JPF)

Group Feedback Strategy was used to evaluate data from 73 employers, 18 tutors, 156 students, and 45 graduates involved in work placements in a library and information science program. Respondents showed reasonably high satisfaction for the following characteristics of placements: teamwork experience, assessment of capabilities, training…

Reviews the literature to identify forms of field experience, reasons for including field experiences in library school curricula, and issues that need discussion and research. Also explored are learning theory, weaknesses and administrative problems of current programs, and program alternatives. The attached bibliography includes more than 50…

Though education for librarianship is contentious, the literature reveals a renewed emphasis on the value of practicum components. This article examines fieldwork in library education at Queensland University of Technology in Australia, highlighting the rationale for fieldwork, its aims and objectives, problems of implementation, benefits, and…

Academic libraries and schools of library and information studies (LIS) may, by using LIS students to staff an information desk as fieldwork for a basic reference course, collaborate to provide useful educational experiences to LIS students and reliable reference service to library users. (Author/AEF)

Describes introduction of a fieldwork option (40 hours of work in agency serving special users, write-up of experience, reading) into elective on library services to special groups of users (blind, deaf, physically handicapped, Maori and Polynesians, new readers, prisoners, hospitalized) at Department of Librarianship, Victoria University of…

Discusses the changing environment in which libraries and library schools exist, noting master of library science (MLS) programs; extended programs including a field experience (University of California, University of North Carolina); post-MLS internships; and the research library residency program offered by the University of Michigan Library.…

Describes the Practical Engagement Program (PEP) at the University of Michigan School of Information, an integral part of the professional master's program with the goal of providing mentored experience to help students integrate the application of classroom-taught theories, principles, and skills to specific problem outside of the classroom.…

Reviews curriculum reform being implemented at the Library School of Stuttgart for students planning to work in public libraries. Components of the new curriculum include core courses in library science, electives in special areas of librarianship, seminars in chosen subject disciplines, and field work in libraries and government agencies. (LRW)