Discussion of ways to enhance learning in school library media centers focuses on the theory of constructivism. Methods described include examining ideas, interacting with other students, encouraging higher-level thinking skills, and pausing to give time for reflection. Examples of lessons for elementary and secondary school students are provided.…

Provides seven fully developed library media activities that are designed to be used with specific curriculum units in physical education, reading and language arts, science, and social studies. Library media skills objectives, curriculum objectives, grade level, instructional roles, activities for completion, evaluation, and follow up are…

Discussion of information literacy focuses on a study at Rutgers University that was conducted to determine how undergraduates evaluate the results of their CD-ROM database searches. A proposed instructional model is explained that is designed to give students the skills they need to use information sources successfully. (three references) (LRW)

Discusses results of interviews with reference librarians that were conducted to investigate the effects of electronic reference options such as CD-ROM and OPACs (Online Public Access Catalogs). The work environment is described; changes in library instruction are considered; and the changing nature of reference work is discussed, including users'…

This study focused on how CD-ROM systems were being used in a college library and training users had received or assistance they required. Patrons completed surveys and librarians logged assistance requests to determine the level of assistance needed for CD-ROM workstations. Results showed most patrons need assistance from librarians even for…

Discusses the development of networked information services from a user's perspective. Topics discussed include user education; the issue of access to, versus retrieval of, information; the role of the library, including education and training, bibliographic control, and electronic information services; and training and education for librarians.…

A factor analysis of affective data gathered from searchers of an online library catalog, and a card catalog allowed researchers to isolate factors leading to success or failure in information retrieval. Factor patterns serve to identify how searches are evaluated by users. Further research is suggested as are features to facilitate successful…

Discusses changes in the role of the elementary school library media specialist. Highlights include cooperation with classroom teachers and administrators; the role of the school principal; actions to initiate change; structuring research for students' success; and sample library instructional activities. (LRW)

The new roles that reference librarians are being asked to play require that reference librarians should be given clear budgetary and programmatic authority; placed closer to the top of the organization; relieved of nonprofessional tasks; brought out of isolated departments; allowed to plan services and set priorities. (Contains 56 references.)…

The Magazine and Journal Instructional Kit (MAJIK/1) is a HyperCard program delivering basic individualized library instruction. Using a technique derived from naturalistic inquiry, the program's formative evaluation was conducted at the University of Maryland, College Park, with 28 upperclassmen as subjects. They reported little difficulty with…

Explains the components of a library and information skills curriculum and integrated instructional model that was developed to help students solve information problems. The six steps include (1) task definition, (2) information seeking strategies, (3) location and access, (4) use of information, (5) synthesis, and (6) evaluation. (LRW)

Considers the success and satisfaction of end users' searches on CD-ROM systems. Topics discussed include introductory training lessons; the selection of appropriate databases; search strategies; and implications for the role of library staff and for staffing patterns. Examples of end-user search techniques and common errors are included. (11…

Describes a flexible model for developing library research skills based on analysis of a relevant text. Students begin by tracing endnotes, reflecting on purpose each cited source serves in fulfilling writer's goals, and practicing locating similar resources. Model can be adapted to individual instruction, group instruction, or computer assisted…

Describes a study that investigated the skills that bibliographic instruction (BI) librarians in academic libraries thought were needed to provide adequate BI and where these skills should be taught or acquired. Training for BI offered in library schools is examined, and recommendations for further study are suggested. (19 references) (LRW)

Discusses collaborative or cooperative learning and its use in school and academic libraries to improve the effectiveness of bibliographic instruction. A study in which the pairing of undergraduate education students was used to teach information retrieval using the ERIC database on CD-ROM is described. (13 references) (EA)