In this article, the author proposes to present a superficial view of what is being taught in the 32 American Library Association accredited graduate library schools. She briefly discusses and answers the following three questions: (1) Who is teaching reference?; (2) What is being taught?; and (3) How is it being taught? [For the commentary on…

Cheney's paper was the first major article on the subject of teaching reference in American library schools. In the article, she addressed three questions: (1) Who is teaching reference?; (2) What is being taught?; and (3) How is it being taught? In this article, Linda Smith discusses how the teaching of reference has changed in the more than 50…

At-risk students are at risk of falling behind in contributing to tomorrow's 21st-century technological workforce unless educators address deficits early on. Scholars have indicated school librarians can raise at-risk students' self-efficacy levels and address inequity through access to technology and instruction. Nonetheless, there are…

This study investigates the benefits of a community blogging platform for students in an online LIS program. Using a web survey and descriptive content analysis methods, this paper empirically addresses how student blogging communities can be effectively foster connections amongst instructors and students, and enhance perceptions of learning…

Creativity is about openness and connection, it signals the chance to get ideas, share ideas, and try new things or put together old things in new ways. Libraries have always had the potential to source and support creative activities. Public library events and opportunities bring together people, ideas, and stuff (whether fabric, paint, wood,…

The applications of e-learning resources to studies, teaching and learning by both staff and students have been investigated. However, the provision of e-learning tools for stake-holders is a modern goal to improving as well as achieving the quality of educational system in the twenty first century is imperative. Students' demographic variables…

Real questions, with no predetermined answers, were submitted by students in an introductory reference class and used to supplement instructor developed problems sets for practice in answering reference questions. The methodology and benefits are discussed. (Author/MBR)

Conventional methods of teaching reference courses should be supplemented by practicing laboratories if improved reference services are to be provided. (AB)

The subject-interest method requires more time than the lecture-discussion method but adds variety to the learning situation. (AB)

Discusses the pros and cons of four methods of teaching reference skills in library schools: the specific title approach, types of reference sources, case studies, and the scientific inquiry approach. A case is made for the problem approach to teaching reference. (Author/FM)

A school librarian's curricular role has expanded from resource provider to educational partner with the goal of creating 21st century learners. The American Association of School Librarians encourages school librarians to generate opportunities for students' becoming "independent lifelong users and producers of ideas and information." In addition…

Which potato chip is healthiest: (1) regular; (2) baked; or (3) sour cream and onion? This problem requires critical and numerical skills in order to read and compare nutrition labels. The question has applications in mathematics and science classrooms but also in teachers' lounges and school cafeterias. It is a problem that addresses the five…

When secondary school librarians teach students digital life literacies, they help students perceive that librarians can provide support for real-life problems. The more librarians work with students, create inviting library environments, and have positive engagements with students, the more they change student perceptions of librarians in…

Examines what is being taught in reference courses at the University of Ibadan (Nigeria) library school, how courses are taught, and what needs to be improved. The balance between practical and theoretical approaches in the curriculum is discussed, and is it recommended that a practical approach be emphasized in Nigeria. (Author/LRW)