Monday, August 8, 2016

The Spirit of Inquiry in Information Literacy

Miller, Olivia

ET


Dickinson, G. K. (2006). The spirit of inquiry in information literacy. Teacher Librarian 34(2), 23-27.

Summary

This article draws connections between the writings & theories of John Dewey and contemporary constructivist models of inquiry, specifically comparing the American Association of School Librarians Information Literacy Standards with Dewey's works. Draws in theories like Instrumentalism (the blending of logic & creativity to produce scientific experiments and findings) and theories of knowledge as contextual (interdependent between individual & their environment). Supports educational practices that allow students freedom to express creativity, come up with their own questions, and open models of inquiry instead of rote fact memorization. Take-away slogan: Knowledge isn't acquired, it's INquired

Review

I found this article very engaging and interesting! It makes a good argument for libraries as centers of inquiry not only in a contemporary model, but drawing on the history of one of the most famous library pioneers. Gives a good context for the shifting of educational theories over time, giving ammo against naysayers who argue that inquiry models are "newfangled" and not guaranteed to work. Draws from the past to move towards the future.

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