A LEADERSHIP CHALLENGEUsing web search tools in the 21st C learning environment

Information Fluency: searching the web

“Locating, recognizing and effectively using information are critical life skills”

(Valenza, 2004,p.38)

Research shows that by improving student’s ability to access 21st century information sources, students engage in meaningful learning. (Todd & Kuhlthau, 2005, p.84)

The web search problem

Schools assume that all staff and students will be effective users of the web. (Herring, 2011, p. 16)

However: Students struggle to be discerning, they settle for

what is easiest to find. Classroom teachers have limited

abilities to help their students gain the best search results.

Knows when to ask the TL

Empower students to be better learners for life

Has a sense of inquiry

TheInformation Fluent

Student

Is persistent, fussy &

discerning

Adapted from Valenza (2004, p.41)

Uses tools to organize the information

Has a plan

The Cybrarian can help

Classroom teachers are unaware that they have a knowledgeable partner. (Valenza, 2004, p.39)

Teacher Librarians can help plan, implement and assess information-based activities to promote meaningful learning

References