This paper describes an exploratory study investigating the impact of problem-based learning and clicker technology as active learning strategies at the American University of Sharjah Library, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Studies compared traditional and active learning classes. The present article maps the successes and challenges of these unique…

A library module skills development component that acquaints students with the organization and location of materials in the library has been developed as part of a coordinated core curriculum for academically deficient students requiring compensatory course work in the social sciences and the humanities. The library sessions, conducted by the…

Discusses active learning techniques in elementary education and postsecondary education and describes the successful conversion of a research methods lecture to an active learning session at the University of Nebraska library. Ideas for increasing student participation in university library instruction are suggested, and effects of active…

Provides background on concept mapping and discusses concept maps drawn by library science graduate students in a reference and information services course. Applications of concept mapping of significance to librarians--in reference service, instruction, and research--are considered. Several sample concept maps are included. (19 references) (MES)

Discusses burnout among teaching librarians and suggests cooperative learning methods in bibliographic instruction classes as a way to avoid burnout. A workshop is described that was developed at SUNY College at Oswego to teach other librarians collaborative and cooperative teaching methods, and background materials on group work in education are…

Reviews two major theories of cognitive development based on Perry's Developmental Process and the Wellesley Study, and offers examples and suggestions for their application in academic library instruction. Learning strategies that respond to differences in levels of cognitive abilities are described, and the role of faculty who request…

Discusses the need for interaction between teaching and library faculty to design undergraduate assignments that demand effective library use and research skills. Examples of appropriate assignments are given. (4 references) (CLB)

Discusses a program to improve library instruction at Rider University (New Jersey) and reports on a pilot assessment. Topics include problems with assessment; student assessment tools; and five standards based on ACRL (Association of College and Research Libraries) standards that were designed to improve teaching methods to address learning…

Describes a continuing education course for librarians that addresses critical thinking and how it can be applied to bibliographic instruction. Course content is described, the incorporation of teaching strategies that encourage critical thinking from the participants is discussed, and a detailed course outline is appended. (LRW)

Discusses a learning-centered approach to information literacy and considers how educational change and reform are tools for academic librarians to use to begin building learning libraries. Topics include standards for information literacy, including creating unified competencies throughout the curriculum; expertise; value added information…

The psychological and educational needs of the growing population of adult students are considered, as well as the availability of necessary library services and materials for this group. The concept of andragogy (i.e., the teaching of adults), is discussed, the literature is reviewed, and a philosophical base is established. (Author/EM)

Presents the results of a survey conducted at the State University of New York Albany to explore library patrons' use of the Internet and their use of the library-sponsored Internet instruction program. Results indicate that most Internet users chose to learn on their own; different instructional needs, based on gender and learning style were…

Reviews both the library and the training literature to investigate methods for developing skills for effective library instructional presentations. Examples from the Xavier University (Ohio) library are included in discussions of teaching effectiveness, learning theories, adult learning, active learning, the use of humor, and psychological…

Discusses self-instructional programs on library use in large academic libraries and recommends including opportunities for face-to-face interaction with subject specialist librarians. Topics include behavioral objectives; experiences at Brigham Young University; the use of Web sites; distance learning; electronic classrooms; and theories of…

Discussion of cooperative learning focuses on how it can be used with course assignments that require students to use the chemical literature, based on experiences with undergraduate chemistry students at Earlham College (Indiana). Suggests factors to consider when developing cooperative learning exercises, including group dynamics and an emphasis…