beyond the avatar: best practices as librarians embedded in online classes
DESCRIPTION
Best practices for embedded librarians, based on personal experience as well as research on the experiences of other embedded librarians. Co-presented with Lilly Ramin of UNT Libraries.TRANSCRIPT
Texas Library Association Annual Conference
San Antonio, TXApril 15, 2010
Lilly RaminInstructional Technologies LibrarianResearch & Instructional Services University of North Texas Libraries
Starr Hoffman Librarian for Digital CollectionsGovernment Documents Dept.University of North Texas Libraries
we’ve both been online students shared research interest in distance learning Starr:
research study: ▪ data on embedded librarians at six institutions
▪ activities they performed, their feelings about the experience
Lilly: has been an embedded librarian at UNT learning pros/cons along the way
saw a need for practical advice & best practices for embedded librarians
often for about an hour (similar to one-shot embedding)
very specific topic or area expertise
utilize chat, discussion boards, or other tools for a short period of time
best practice tips: upload screenshots share links share answers to
all questions
similar to teaching assistant role answer a variety of student questions as they
come up work with faculty for course access clarify faculty & librarian expectations/roles graded project
incentive for students to attend librarian lectures virtual instruction sessions (Wimba)
1 - 2 hours long sessions were archived
checked discussion board daily
general discussion
board
assignment-related
discussion board
library-specific discussion
board
institution A
X X X
Institution B
X X X
Institution C
X
Institution D
X X
Institution E
X X
Institution F
X X
Course Management Software (CMS) ChoiceCourse Management Software (CMS) Choice Subjects of Online Courses Embedded InSubjects of Online Courses Embedded In
Discussion Board UseDiscussion Board UseTypes of Questions ReceivedTypes of Questions Received
Involve other librarians from the beginning Get buy-in from library administration Market the service to online instructors Clearly negotiate librarian’s role with the
instructor Get information about the class ahead of time Follow-up with the instructor Be prepared to go outside your subject
specialty
Plot course assignment deadlines & plan ahead for busy periods
Monitor discussion board using email notification or RSS
Check courses at set times throughout the day/week
Save email messages & discussion board posts for future use
Create a library module open to every online student
Post librarian’s contact information in the course
Post in a single library-specific discussion board
Post information proactively Include visuals in discussion board posts
Test software & run system check ahead of time
Post Trouble-Shooting Tips Be prepared with a "Plan B" & have
alternatives in place
article to be published in the June 2010 issue of Public Services Quarterly as:
“Best Practices for Librarians Embedded in Online Courses”
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