It has been repeatedly demonstrated that active learning promotes retention and increases learner motivation and involvement. As a result, the value of innovative, engaging active learning techniques in teaching information literacy is often discussed among practitioners, but frequently there is only brief coverage of these techniques in library and information programs. It can be difficult for librarians to effectively develop active learning exercises and incorporate them into their own instruction practice.
In information literacy instruction settings, where instructors have limited opportunities to achieve their student learning objectives, these techniques become even more important.
In this session, participants with all levels of instruction experience and at all points in their pedagogical careers will be walked through the process of creating, planning for, and implementing active learning practices in their own institutional contexts. They will first be introduced to the concept of active learning, and then a panel of presenters will briefly demonstrate a range of active learning tools, techniques, and exercises for both in and out of the classroom. To serve as inspiration and a catalyst for discussion, participants will learn about self-guided and blended learning using research guides, concept mapping activities, and techniques for facilitating student discussion and collaboration.
Participants will then identify their learning objectives and split into small groups with shared or similar interests. Groups will be arranged around the broad themes of self-guided/blending learning, concept mapping and ideation, and facilitating discussion/collaboration. Aided by the session presenters and facilitators, participants will walk through a multi-step process of developing and refining their active learning activity or tool. The session will be capped with a group-wide discussion of the activities generated; these will also be collected at the end of the session and shared with the participants.
To facilitate the group breakout, it would be helpful for participants to identify ahead of time which of the three overarching group themes they'd like to explore further, as well as the specific setting and context in which they will be trying to develop active learning. If you're able, please enter your information in the form below prior to the session. If you don't have a specific setting in mind, we'll have examples for you to work with!
https://goo.gl/forms/jVZUUX4gUHKWW2B43Learning Objectives:- Participants will develop a customized active learning tool or activity for their specific instruction context.
- Participants will be familiar with the principles and importance of active learning in information literacy instruction, as well as with a range of active learning techniques for future implementation.
- Participants will be able to guide themselves through the process of developing and implementing active learning projects in the future.
