The American Library Association defines information literacy as having the ability to "recognize when information is needed and the ability to locate, evaluate, and effectively use the needed information." Today's students appear confident engaging in online networking and internet searches, but many lack the information literacy skills necessary for research and lifelong learning. Schedule an instructional session today!
To schedule a library tour, contact Leif, Madeleine, or Nathan and give them the date, time, course name and number, and the number of students in each class. Also let us know if you'd like to bring your class to the library to just do research. We ask that you give us at least 24 hours advance notice to schedule a visit to your classroom or to bring your class to the library. Please be prepared to accompany your class and remain with them.
Leif Pierson: lpie@tjc.edu 903-510-3149
Madeleine Nittmo: madeleine.nittmo@tjc.edu 903-510-2308
Nathan Stiles: nsti@tjc.edu 903-510-2110
TIMING IS EVERYTHING - schedule library instruction at the time students begin to work on their research assignment (point of need) so they will have more incentive to attend and to listen closely.
PLAN AHEAD - check with a librarian when preparing assignments for the next semester to make sure there are library resources available to support your topics. This helps to alleviate student anxiety when they can't find information. We'll be happy to provide you with a list of resources that shows coverage for your topics.
TERMINOLOGY - give clear instructions that include proper use of terminology for all resources students are required to use. Students often are confused by the use of simply "Internet" or "Online" resources. Explain exactly what you mean by these terms.
SCAVENGER HUNTS - this type of assignment is rarely an effective method for library instruction. Without structured guidance, students often simply ask a librarian for the answers. This doesn't accomplish the objective of helping students become familiar with the library or of teaching them how to locate information. It also requires that librarians answer the same questions many times from multiple classes. We would rather schedule a library tour or class instruction for your students.
Classroom Instruction - offered in either the library's classroom (when available) or yours. Includes library resources, database access, and search methods.
Library Tours - a general orientation to the physical library and familiarity with the collection and various departments.
Individual Instruction - provides faculty and students with the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a librarian for assistance.
Subject Guides - offer choice information and resources by subject area for your specific class and are accessible 24/7.
Off-campus Sites - we offer instructional sessions to the classes at TJC-Jacksonville, TJC-Rusk, TJC- Lindale and to dual-credit classes at the high schools. Be sure to schedule with us at least 3 days in advance since we must arrange for equipment and software to be set up.
