Service Catalog
Service Category: Library/Research Course Instruction
Name of Service: Library/Research Course Instruction
Who is eligible to use this service?
Full-time and part-time faculty and students
When is this service available:
Monday – Friday 8:30AM – 5:30PM
Support Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:30AM – 5:30PM
Service Owner(s)
Name: Rita Mitchell
Title: Information Literacy Librarian
Email: rmmitchell@stritch.edu
Phone: 414-410-4118
Service Description
What is library research course instruction?
The reference librarians teach on-campus library instruction/information literacy classes that are subject/discipline specific, assignment specific (i.e., geared toward specific assignments or research needs), or general (generic). Faculty members are invited to request library instruction for their classes, and presentations include reference tools, electronic resources, search strategies, and/or any other library instruction that is requested. Ideally classes are scheduled when students have assignments that require them to use library resources, since library instruction is more meaningful when it is relevant and course-integrated.
The library's instructional classroom (Library 210) is equipped with 14 computer workstations, and it can accommodate computer demonstrations and hands-on training in library research methods, resources, services, and facilities. Various instructional tutorials and pathfinders pertaining to information research are developed for the classes. The handouts, exercises, etc., are designed to meet the needs of learners with different skills and different learning styles.
Scheduling Classes
Classes are scheduled, if possible, at least one week in advance to allow for proper preparation and classroom availability. It is recommended that teaching faculty arrange for library instruction as early as possible to avoid any scheduling conflicts or delays. It is highly recommended that instructors be present during library instruction sessions; if the instructor is not present, sign-in sheets cannot be distributed or collected by the librarians. Cancellation of a library instruction class should be made as soon as possible so the classroom is available for other classes.
Distance Education Classes
Reference librarians teach "off-campus" (distance education) library instruction/information literacy classes that are subject/discipline specific, assignment specific, or general (generic). These distance education related sessions may be taught: (1) Via web conference (2) Synchronous or asynchronous offerings in the Angel Learning Management System.
Collaboration between faculty and librarians is encouraged in planning a library research component. Students benefit from such collaboration, since the librarian can address their specific research needs and can insure adequate materials and information are available for class assignments.
How to Use this Service
If your class needs assistance, please arrange for library instruction by contacting your department's library liaison. Contact us.
The director and reference librarians may also substitute teach for each other in the event of illness, schedule conflicts, etc.
Mission Statement
The mission of the library instruction/information literacy program at Cardinal Stritch University is to support the educational aims of the academic curriculum at Cardinal Stritch University by teaching students to do effective research; to think critically; and to understand the structure, role and organization of information. This instruction encourages the development of lifelong learning skills.
Specifically, the library instruction/information literacy classes are designed to assist students in developing their ability to:
- Analyze their information needs, usually as it pertains to specific assignments.
- Find sources relevant to those needs, based upon faculty input concerning specific assignments.
- Recognize, use, and retrieve a variety of forms of information.
- Determine the credibility of the information retrieved, i.e., assess its authority, reliability, and validity.
- Understand the economic, legal and social issues surrounding the use of information, and access and use the information ethically and legally
The library supports the information literacy definition and the information literacy competency standards espoused by ACRL (the Association of College and Research Libraries), a division of the American Library Association.
ACRL's definition for information literacy is as follows:
"Information literacy is a set of abilities requiring individuals to 'recognize when information is needed and [to] have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.'"
"Information literacy forms the basis for lifelong learning. It is common to all disciplines, to all learning environments, and to all levels of education. It enables learners to master content and extend their investigations, become more self-directed, and assume greater control over their own learning."
Quick Reference Guides
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Instructions
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FAQs
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