Types of Library Instruction

The Cofrin Library Reference & Instructional Services Staff can tailor a Library instruction session to meet your needs. Below are some of the types of instruction that can be developed for your class. Classes can either be taught in the Library Instruction Area (CL 304) or in campus classrooms. All instruction sessions are scheduled following the Policies for Scheduling Library Instruction.

Is Library instruction necessary?

You may think that Library instruction is something only for freshman and College Writing courses, or that students already know how to do research. In today's rapidly changing world of technology, the need for Library instruction increases every day.

If you can answer yes to any of the following questions, then you might consider incorporating a Library instruction session into your class.

• Do you give assignments that include using Library resources?
• Do you have new students who don't have any idea where the Library is or what it has to offer?
• Do you have some seniors who know very little about doing research?
• Do you have students telling you that they cannot find anything on their topic?

A Library instruction session can help your students quickly master some of the mechanics of the research process so they can focus on critical thinking and analysis of information resources.

Basic Instruction

Basic instruction provides students with general information in conducting Library research. Classes generally run for a class period (50 minutes or 1 hour and 15 minutes) and can include the following:

• General Library information
• Developing a search strategy
• Using the Cofrin Library Catalog
• Using some of the major online databases
• Internet searching and evaluation
• Hands-on time for students to apply what they have learned

These classes are most effective when there is also an assignment such as a research paper or Library assignment.

Advanced Instruction

Advanced instruction focuses on a particular course, Library resource or collection, research technique, or field of study. Classes generally last for one class period, but can be expanded to multiple sessions if necessary. Included in these classes can be things such as:

• Using specialized databases
• Government Documents
• Using primary sources, and archival materials
• Internet searching and evaluation
• Legislative Research

Instruction for High Schools

Instruction sessions are also available for area High School junior and senior classes. For more information please refer to the web site "Library Instruction for High Schools."

Online request form for Library instruction.

For further information contact:

• Renee Ettinger
  Information Literacy and Reference Librarian
  465-2542
  e-mail: ettinger@uwgb.edu