Confession of an information junkie...

I like Wikipedia...even if it is not considered valid and/or accurate.  I feel it can be a good start to get some general questions answered and it can be the springboard to accessing other information. It is constanlty improving and updating information.  If a 'need for information' and finding an appropriate 'question' is considered the hardest when using the 'Research Process' for researching, is wikipedia not a great place for those students who are so ill prepared? I also like the idea that students are given the task of creating their own wiki pages.  Then wikipedia becomes a great model. It is certainly should never be the only place a student goes for research, however, it could maybe be the first.  It is also a great way to help teach students to filter and check whether the info is correct or valid.  What would we do without wikipedia?

Lesson 1: Information Literacy and Reference Services in Schools

Current School Library Information Services

How effective is my current school libraries information services? I have no idea yet.  Having only been in the position for a few months I feel that I am only just getting a good grasp of what information services means, let alone being able to acess its value in our school.  I will say that our reference section is collecting some epic dust. Maybe no one has done much research yet? Maybe they only use websites now.  I know that Richmond Schools have access to many information catalogues like EBSCO for kids, Infotopia, Worldbook...however, I cannot tell you how much it is used.  What I do know is that I am excited to find out! I have a plan to work on inquiry projects with the students who come for prep relief (Grades 1, 1/2 and 2/3).  I also will be working with some of the Grade 6/7 teachers on the 'Information Quest' research model.  I will continue to blog on my progress.  Wish me luck!

Reference Skills

I am supposed to write about what I know already and unfortunately I feel as if it is not much.  Having only taken one course so far (for the diploma program) and just recently started in a temporary position as a part-time TL, I feel very green indeed.  having just read the glossary, there are many things that I will learn from this class.   Teaching research and reference skills are such an important part of a TLs job from K-7 (I am in an elementary school).  I have to teach several preps on a Thursday and I have decided to do mini inquiry based projects with them.  I know this course will help me with these mini projects. 

My goal - to help all ages filter and choose appropriate reference materials to answer their questions.