Teaching skills for teaching librarians: Postcards from the edge of the educational paradigm

Rachel Sandoval

ET

Reference

Peacock, J. (2013). Teaching skills for teaching librarians: Postcards from the edge of

                the educational paradigm. Australian Academic & Research Libraries, 32(1),

                26-42. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00048623.2001.10755141

Summary

This article discusses the challenges faced by many librarians in academic libraries: the shift from librarians who teach to librarians as teachers (and learning facilitators). This is due in part to the increase of information literacy and other skills that are now being emphasized at colleges and universities. In most cases librarians do not have the educational, theoretical and practical pedagogical training as teachers. This is mainly due to the lack of pedagogical courses in library science programs. The authors of this article argue that through education, specifically professional development, librarians can acquire the knowledge and training needed to be teachers. The article points out some of the possible challenges on campus ranging from misunderstanding of the libraries role on the campus to budget constrains. The authors highlight two university programs that have implemented professional development for teacher librarians to teach.

Evaluation

This is a great article covering the issue of the profession transforming into roles as teacher schools, colleges and universities. Traditionally, library schools have not offered courses in educational theory and practice, leaving many librarians lacking the educational background now required of them. The possible solutions offered in the article are an excellent way for a librarian in this situation to see how others have been able to shift to teaching.