Library Instruction: Workshop Development

Development Steps

  • Set up consulation with BHCC instructor; receive copies of applicable class assignments and syllabus. All requests for consultations and workshops go through Andy McCarthy, a Coordinator of Library Services. Email him at ajmccart@bhcc.mass.edu.
  • Develop handout to support goals and topics covered in library session
  • Develop a LibGuide to support goals and topics covered during the semester
  • Solicit workshop feedback from the students who attended the workshop

Development Process

The workshop development process is focused around the specifics of each class -- the type of student, what the students have studies over the semester, and the particular information needs attached to a class assignment. For these reasons, library instructors typically receive a copy of class assignments as well the syllabus during the initial consultation process.

After consultation with a BHCC instructor, a library instructor matches ACRL Information Literacy competencies to the course and assignment goals. The library instructor develops an instruction plan for the hour and fifteen minute class session -- instruction plans usually entail about 40 to 45 minutes of lecture and discussion in the library classroom followed by 30 to 35 minutes of hands-on research in the library classroom.

To support the session, the library instructor develops a handout emphasizing the points covered that day. The library instructor also develops a Web file that is broader in content and application; the Web file is designed to not only support the points covered that day, but potential research needs throughout the semester.

Feedback

Feedback about the library workshop experience is extremely important. The library staff relies on the comments and observations of participants when reviewing the content and delivery of each session. Feedback allows library staff to more closely align library instruction with student and faculty needs and create library instruction relevant to the academic experience here at BHCC