bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GENESIS – Generating e-learning systems in schools: School-university e-learning research partnerships for scaling up innovation
Authors: Hill Cathy , Alexander Shirley , Cuthbert Karen , Hall Robin , McCredie Nerida , Nicholson Norm , Tomkins John
Published: April 2021

Despite optimism about new technologies for learning, e-learning innovation has been slow to scale up. This research set out to investigate whether an e-learning environment designed by students themselves would scale easily in schools. To do so, the GENESIS Project, a collaborative undertaking between three schools and a University, created the opportunity for students as researchers to conceive, prototype, and test an e-learning environment in which they and other students could explore ideas of interest to them. Preliminary findings show that students are able to design e-learning environments that provide good contexts for learning. Furthermore, such an approach appears to set in motion deep and lasting change in schools in ways that align with Coburn’s (2003) four ways of thinking about scaling up. The Project demonstrates, in all its phases, a way in which students themselves can take information leadership of curriculum in a culture of change.
Information Policy and Intellectual Freedom In American Libraries Before and After September 11, 2001: A Global Perspective
Authors: Custer Joseph A.
Published: April 2021

This paper examines information policy in libraries before and after the tragic destruction of the Twin Towers in New York, New York, on September 11, 2001. It carefully considers libraries’ role in the history of intellectual freedom in the United States and on an international scale. It investigates the rocky road that citizens from almost all countries have traveled in attempting to gain open access to information throughout modern history. It appraises some of the advances certain areas of the world have made in regard to intellectual freedom. The paper also investigates some areas of the world that are still confronting various degrees of censorship today. The paper then discusses the effect September 11, 2001 had on intellectual freedom and libraries. It scrutinizes the USA Patriot Act that was quickly passed in the United States in response to the terrorist attack. In addition, the paper explores other legislation from around the world that was enacted in direct reply to September 11, 2001.
Information Technology Adoption in Botswana Secondary Schools and its Implications on Leadership and School Libraries in the Digital Era
Authors: Totolo Angelina
Published: April 2021

The objectives of this paper are to examine the principals’ transformational leadership qualities and to juxtapose this to Information Technology adoption in Botswana secondary schools. Using David et al. (1989) Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Todd’s (1999) transformational leadership constructs, and qualitative open-ended questions, a research tool was formulated to establish the perceptions of school heads in 10 urban and 14 rural schools, about computer technology acceptance, the role of the school library in the integration of computers in the school and transformational leadership. The findings point to a trend towards computer acceptance and transformational leadership, albeit some indications of computer anxiety, some feelings about the lack of computer usefulness and ease of use, as well as leadership issues, like the lack of functional school libraries. One of the most relevant findings was the positive correlation between perceived ease of use of the computer statement to some leadership constructs.
Joint-use Libraries: Co-operation Between Public Libraries and School Libraries in Theory and Practice
Authors: Das Lourense H.
Published: April 2021

Exploitation of school libraries by public libraries is strongly promoted by (local) politicians and decision makers. In the Netherlands this is influenced by a reform in the educational system in the 1990’s and the reconsideration of public libraries in the local area. The school library has become a marketing target. Public libraries and school libraries have varying roles. These roles are not similar but complimentary. Key factors for successful co-operation are the recognition of the role of the school library in the educational process and the competencies of the school librarian. As an example of a cooperation process, the establishment of a joint-use library in the brand new public library branch in the new district Ypenburg, will be described.
Literacy in the Information Age: Examining the Convergence of Information Literacy Instruction and Assessment with Theory and Policy
Authors: Asselin Marlene , Early Margaret , Filipenko Margot , Lam Virginia
Published: April 2021

Competencies associated with information literacy are becoming increasingly embedded in literacy policy and curriculum; however, little is known about the extent to which instruction and assessment are aligned with current directives. This paper presents two studies designed to examine the state of instruction and assessment of information literacy in Canadian public education. Findings from these studies showed that although instruction of basic levels of information processes is taking place, there is significantly less emphasis on higher-level aspects of information literacy. In regards to assessment, items related to information literacy are not included on large-scale literacy tests thus potentially affecting how teachers allot their instructional time.
A Philosophical Framework for Education and Information Literacy Development in Hong Kong
Authors: Fan Norbert C.
Published: April 2021

Principles for furthering information literacy in Hong Kong after 1997 must come into line with the education policy of the HKSAR, which shall encourage both freedom of the individual mind and the growth of a national identity. Freedom of the mind will increase creativity and independent thinking capability of the individual; the build-up of a national identity for Hong Kong people is crucial as this will lead to the steady development of the local democratic political establishment. Although these two elements of education policy are fundamental in many other countries, they were basically missing before 1997. Therefore, on the eve of political and cultural change, the principles for information literacy, the author believes, should be the “no-action” principle laid down by the famous Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu, and the principles brought out in the Theory of Legal and Moral Value Balance and Rules of Spontaneity developed by the author.
Promotion of creative learning exchange philosophy
Authors: Chen Tzong-Yue
Published: April 2021

Traditional approaches to organizational management focused on the analysis of individual problems and incremental change. In a modern society full of rapidly evolving science technology, what used to work seems no longer to suffice as schools continue to experience complex changes. It is becoming increasingly more difficult to see the consequences as a result of our decisions and to learn from experience. No longer can a person derive a sense of security and comfort from merely doing a day's work for a day's pay. Neither can an employee quietly pursue his or her job, while totally unconcerned about what other partners are doing. Sad to say, not much can be expected of today’s school curricula to meet enterprises’ requirements. This explains why a school library plays an important role in putting together the school’s and local community’s resources for the purpose of promoting readers creative learning exchange(CLE) concept, building in them a systematic thinking model and developing their capabilities in solving problems.
Regional School Library Coordinators’ Visions of Quality School Library Programs and Their Role in Helping to Achieve Them
Authors: Buckley Jeanne
Published: April 2021

A school library coordinator is a position of central leadership for district school boards. The visions of six Canadian school library coordinators about aspects of strong school library programs, and how their role helps achieve them are investigated in this qualitative interview-based study. Results showed that coordinators felt their roles of providing professional development and advocating for school libraries help create school library programs that improve student achievement. For the future, they envisioned a greater role for school libraries in education, with greater collaboration between school library, technology, literacy, and public library circles. A need for greater provincial government support for school libraries was identified. This study explored the values and hopes of school library leaders in Canada, and indicated that a coordinator can do much to support districts’ school libraries and media centers.
Responding to the Literacy Challenge Amidst its Resource-hungry Realities: The Case of Southern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Oclarit Fraulein Agcambot , Ortuoste Ivan Limbungan
Published: April 2021

Addressing the challenge of literacy is formidable for countries faced with chronic problems on finance. In Southern Mindanao, one of the most culturally diverse regions in the Philippines, scores of public school children remain with very limited access to libraries and other information infrastructures. Textbook ratio lies steadily between 1:3 to 1:7. Despite its resource-hungry realities, there are laudable moves by the local Departments of Education to boldly initiate development intervention programs at the level of the grassroots to combat the problem of illiteracy. The Province of Sultan Kudarat has the Drop Everything And Read (DEAR) and the Reading – At Reader’s Reach (REARER) Programs while South Cotabato boasts of its School and Home Advocacy Reading Program (SHARP), and the Education Summit it recently convened. These initiatives showcase the “bayanihan” spirit wherein Filipinos collectively contribute towards narrowing the local-level divide that separates those with access to technology, information and information infrastructures in the mainstream from those in far-flung portions of Southern Mindanao.
A School Library Program Based on Information Literacy: A Case Study of National Experimental High School at Hsinchu Science Park
Authors: Ma Tsu-Jui , Lin Meng-Ling , Ma Tsu-Chun
Published: April 2021

Known as IC design and other electronic device center, Science-Based Industrial Park recruits outstanding professionals, scholars, and engineers in high technologies in Hsinchu, Taiwan. The National Experimental High School at Hsinchu Science Park (abbreviated as NEHS) was established for their young offspring. Enrolled with various students from greater Science Park Area and overseas, this school engaged in experimental teaching and educational research which was supported by the government. With bountiful educational resources, library is playing a key role in information literacy. This article stresses the importance of the information literacy and Big6 model, and introduces the school library program in information literacy at NEHS. Finally, remodeling the school library program of NEHS with Big6 model is discussed
Supporting Information Leadership in a Culture of Change: Researchers in School Librarianship
Authors: Clyde Laurel A.
Published: April 2021

One aspect of the author’s ongoing “Research and Researchers in School Librarianship” project is described here, a study of the researchers in this field. Data collection was based on a questionnaire survey of “current researchers” who have published research articles or papers in the field of school librarianship, in English, from 1999 to 2003 inclusive. Data collection and analysis was ongoing when this conference paper was prepared; this is a preliminary report based primarily on the returns of researchers who had published three or more research articles during the five-year period. Questions addressed include the following: Who writes research articles and papers in English in the field of school librarianshop? How many researchers are there in our field? What are the characteristics of the researchers? What issues are of concern to the researchers and what do they perceive to be the barriers to doing research?
With Help of Technological Aids to Help Students Learn English Better
Authors: Hou Johnny
Published: April 2021

We know education reform in Asian countries is prosperous. Of course, Taiwan is no exception. In recent years, Taiwan has made a great profit in information science, especially in computer industry. What I really mean is in Taiwan, computers come into our daily life. So, even in primary or secondary schools campuses, it is not uncommon for school staffs or students to use computers. Being an English teacher in high school, I think maybe it is about time that we are supposed to modify our teaching approaches or improve our teaching effect by way of the use of computers. But how computers can be used in school? School computers are being used in many different ways and to very different extents.
Accelerated Reader and Information Policy, Information Literacy, and Knowledge Management: U.S. and International Implications
Authors: Everhart Nancy , Dresang Eliza T. , Kotrla Bowie
Published: April 2021

Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the relationship between the Accelerated Reader (AR), a computerized reading management program, and information policy, information literacy, and knowledge management are drawn from data collected in the U.S., Scotland, and England. A study of 632 of the poorest U.S. schools shows a strong relationship between national information policy regarding achievement in the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and local decisions to use AR, expectations for literacy, and library collection development. Investigation in the U.K. schools finds that (a) motivational style interacts with gender in relation to the competitive and social aspects of the AR program, (b) the level of program implementation does not correlate with breadth of reading, and (c) management aspects of the program are not utilized effectively. Results suggest that how the AR program relates to information policy, information literacy, and knowledge management has importance for school librarians and libraries
How the Storyteller became Medallion Man
Authors: Morpurgo Michael
Published: April 2021

The best stories have endings that are not endings. The Children's Laureate is an ever changing, never ending story.
Trends in Children's Book Publishing, 1975-2000: Corporate Influences on Children's Reading
Authors: Latrobe Kathy
Published: April 2021

Data gathered from selected supplements (1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, and 2000) to the Children's Catalog (H.W. Wilson), are analyzed to describe the corporate ownership of children's book imprints and assess trends and changes, including the decline of independent publishing entities in the early 1980s, the relative stability in the percentage of corporations that produce both large and small proportions of children's books, and the accelerated changes across the children's publishing industry during the past ten years. Conclusions address the influence of corporate ownership on the development, contents, accessibility, and marketing of books for children.
Crossing the Educational Divide
Authors: Lonsdale Ray , Armstrong Chris
Published: April 2021

The school librarian is responsible for facilitating access to electronic resources, creating an awareness of these formats, and ensuring that the pupils and staff have the skills to exploit them effectively. Traditionally, these skills have been developed within the individual secondary and tertiary educational sectors. In the United Kingdom, skills acquisition and the implications of resource provision are being considered across secondary and tertiary education. The paper opens with an account of a study of the provision and use of electronic resources in tertiary education in the U.K. and then explores the implications of research into skills transfer between secondary schools and the tertiary sector.
Toss Out the Textbook!
Authors: Connolly Jane
Published: April 2021

The challenges posed by curriculum renewal are familiar to teachers the world over. In Queensland such renewal has lead to the introduction of new syllabuses in each of the key learning areas. The opportunities to engage with and share literature are fewer and the lure of the textbook stronger as teachers grapple with new underpinning philosophies, organization of curriculum materials, concepts and content. Brisbane Catholic Education teacher-librarians have been working to ensure that story does not become a casualty of the demands of curriculum change and implementation by forging links between literature, syllabus concepts, and content.
Lighting the Fire
Authors: Greeg Elizabeth
Published: April 2021

What aspects of reading engage boys? This paper looks at the importance of reading, some of the current thinking about boys and reading, and research carried out among students of St Andrew's Cathedral School, where a reading culture has developed. What implications do these findings have for our profession - for school libraries and teacher librarians? What other strategies can we employ to encourage our students to develop a lifelong love of reading? The strategies include the idea of a Literature Festival, other reading programs, ways of integrating technology into the reading experience and the Literature Circles model at St Andrew's.
Free Voluntary Reading and the Role of the Teacher Librarian
Authors: La Marca Susan
Published: April 2021

This paper attempts to do three things: Investigate recent research that outlines a relationship between free voluntary reading, or pleasure reading, and student achievement. Link these findings to my own research into the role of the teacher- librarian in creating a positive reading environment, and Detail some of the programs and initiatives that can support us in engaging students with their reading.
A Strategy for Developing a Culture of Reading through Folktales for Pre-School Children in Indonesia
Authors: Latuputty Hanna
Published: April 2021

This paper discusses the relation between the culture of reading and the role of the school library. The paper will look at criteria for selection of suitable books based on the Piaget's theory on the developmental tasks for pre-school children. A limited survey was conducted in some local pre-schools in South Jakarta to get picture of the current situation. Finally, a strategy for using Indonesia's folktales to support the development of a reading culture for pre-school children was formulated.
The Role of Mobile Libraries in Developing a Culture of Reading
Authors: Niemand Mona , Dlamini Busi
Published: April 2021

South Africa is faced with tremendous library service development and delivery challenges in the face of a rapidly increasing and geographically dispersed population. Learners often come from a background where books and reading are not part of their lives and literacy levels need to be significantly raised. A mobile library service provided to remote schools by one provincial department of education is a successful initiative to improve library service as well as literacy levels and a reading culture. An overview of the role of the mobile library service and other related programs is the focus of this paper.
Picture Books: Puzzles and Possibilities
Authors: Pickworth Margo
Published: April 2021

This professional paper deals with the avenue provided by some recent Australian picture books for competent readers to examine the concept of story as well as their own internal and external worlds. Readers were encouraged to 'unlock' the puzzles presented in the books by Matt Ottley, Shaun Tan and Graeme Base. The illustrations were examined in terms of the techniques they used to relate their stories, including the visual images, meaning and symbolism. Personal journals provided an insight into how students related these experiences to their external world of mass media and advertising. Personal relationships, attitudes and feelings were also documented. It is felt that such literature provides endless opportunities for reflection on story and personal growth.
Cultivating and Promoting a Culture of Reading Among Fathers of Men
Authors: Singh Jagtar
Published: April 2021

William Wordsworth has rightly said that the child is father of the man. The whole story of human progress is based on the creative spirit of mankind. Hence it is essential for us to empower the child with critical thinking, decision making, and problem solving skills from his childhood. School libraries and public libraries have a pivotal role to play in this regard, but that is possible only when these libraries themselves are properly developed. School libraries are the weakest link in library and information infrastructure in India. This paper highlights the factors responsible for a declining culture of reading among children in India and also suggests the ways to promote the reading culture from the early days of childhood.
Not Just Book Week: Developing a Reading Culture at Mill Park Secondary College
Authors: Way Judith
Published: April 2021

Establishing a culture where reading is valued as much as participation in sporting teams is not easy. At Mill Park Secondary School a programme has been underway for three years and appears to be making strong progress in cultural change. This presentation outlines three initiatives that are working well together. They target teachers, students and parents and are supplemented by Reading Cup team activities and Reading Challenge activities for individuals.
Literature Circles Online: Practical Strategies for Creating a Reading Culture using Technology
Authors: Combes Barbara
Published: April 2021

Providing opportunities and learning environments on-line where students are actively engaged and feel in control of their own learning experiences, encourages lifelong learning skills development such as independence, problem-solving and higher order thinking. Discrete on-line environments can also use the functionality of the technology to facilitate different learning styles and provide a 'safe' environment where students can explore and experiment before presenting their ideas to a larger audience. This paper considers current research and the importance of the fiction collection in the development of literacy outcomes for all students. It also examines an interactive on-line module that: incorporates the concept of literature or reading circles to promote reading; the development of higher order literacy skills and encourages the development of a reading culture. The on-line module was developed using a model that utilizes an holistic approach to learning to create a seamless learning environment where students work within a structured framework that is designed to foster independent learning and teamwork.
Developing Power and Influence for the Professional
Authors: Boyd Suzette
Published: April 2021

Boyd studies the responses to a series of questions from six teacher-librarians who are generally regarded as influential leaders within the field. These responses will be analyzed with a view to testing Hartzell's scaffolding for building influence for the teacher-librarian.
Research in Children's Information Seeking Behaviour
Authors: Mansor Yushiana
Published: April 2021

Provides an overview on the significance of studying information seeking behavior of children to enhance the role of school libraries. The literature on children's information seeking behavior is reviewed and integrated into the perspective of school library services. Discussion on the different models of information seeking is presented. Focuses on children's information seeking behavior in the electronic environment. Outlines issues related to children's access and barriers to information. An analysis of research methodology used is provided. Offers suggestions on the future research direction with emphasis on the Malaysian school libraries environment.
Sculpting an Information Literate School Community: Looking for Touchstones
Authors: Henri James , Boyd Suzette , Eyre Gayner
Published: April 2021

The authors review, and provide findings from, a collaborative action research project in a large private school. The purpose of the research was to implement actions to facilitate a holistic approach to information literacy, and to embed information literacy within teaching units in the school. A second aim was to benchmark best practice. The research took the form of a situation analysis and individual case study 'units'. The experience has created awareness, amongst teaching staff, of techniques and resources to improve the information literacy process amongst students, and of the potential role of the library in collaborative practices.
Automating Secondary School Libraries: A Web-Based Library Management System
Authors: Abdullah Abrizah , Nasir Nor Edzan , Mei Lok Chee , Lee Khoo Mei
Published: April 2021

This paper describes the development of a web-based school library management system for secondary schools in Malaysia (WBSSLMS), which aims to provide an effective and efficient way of acquiring, cataloguing, searching, retrieving, downloading and maintaining of library materials. The systems operates in a consortium where secondary school libraries can participate as members to share information resources and still maintain separate library databases. Information gathered from various literature, onsite visits to school libraries, brainstorming sessions with teacher-librarians and observation on the present systems used, have helped produce ideas in designing and implementing the systems. WBSSLMS consists of seven main modules and each is basically targeted to three types of users; i.e. students, teacher-librarians and systems administrators. Any computer, regardless of its operating system, could access any of the modules as long it had Internet access and a browser. The modules are Registration, Acquisition, Cataloguing, Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC), Circulation, Maintenance and Information Management.. This paper also presents the strengths and limitations of the systems, and also the possible future enhancements. User acceptance tests showed that a high majority of respondents found the systems easy to use. They also found that the modules are complete and have an appealing interface. It is foreseen that WBSSLMS has met the requirements to meet the needs of a library automated systems, as well as a management information systems.
Developing Information Literacy in the Malaysian Smart Schools: Resource-Based Learning as a Tool to Prepare Today's Students for Tomorrow's Society
Authors: Chan Foong Mae
Published: April 2021

Today's students are surrounded by more information coming from more sources than ever before. In order to deal with the vast amount of information they will encounter in school, life, and work, they must develop skills not required of previous generations. Since schools cannot teach all that students need to know, a better way is to teach them to manage the information resources. Although schools should still identify the basic information that students need to know, schools must also teach "information literacy", that is, the ability to find, interpret, use, and communicate information from a variety of sources. Resource-based learning is a tool to help students handle information. It is based on the belief that students learn best by interacting directly with learning resources instead of just listening to classroom lectures. The learning is in line with the Malaysian Smart School Concept in that it is more self-directed, self-paced, and self-accessed, and hopefully, more meaningful. Since the skills of information literacy cannot be taught in a content vacuum, resource-based learning integrates the classroom and the school resource centre or the school library. Students go through a problem-solving process that requires them to define the need for information, determine a search strategy, locate the needed resources, assess and understand the information they find, interpret the information, communicate the information, and finally, evaluate their conclusions in view of the original problem.
Knowledge Building Through Multiple Literacy Learning
Authors: Bonnano Karen
Published: April 2021

In the 'knowledge society' increasing emphasis is being placed on independent, resource-based and technology-based inquiry learning. This learning process requires teacher librarians/library media specialists and their teaching teams to have access to an expanding range of curriculum information and teaching/learning methodologies. An outcomes approach to learning in regard to a sequential, developmental and progressive learning of information literacy skills within an information processing framework has been on the agenda and actively pursued by teacher librarians/library media specialists for more than a decade. In addition, teacher librarians/library media specialists have embraced information and communication technologies (ICT) as a means to extend the information literacy skills of their learners. An information skills framework becomes the backbone and 'vehicle' through which learners are able to demonstrate what they know and can do within an outcomes-based curriculum. This inquiry approach is the 'linch-pin' across the curriculum. Combine this with a recognized information skills, and information and communication technology (ICT) continuum, one has the beginnings of a progressive and development outcomes curriculum, which works on increasing levels of sophistication and complexity of tasks. In planning a unit of work the information skills framework provides the backbone to sequence the learning activities according to an inquiry-based approach. The tools and methodologies one uses to activate learning within this framework encourages and fosters the development of information literacy attributes and provides opportunity to engage in ICT skills development. School based planning of information literacy in conjunction with an outcomes approach to the curriculum facilitates an informative reporting process for students, as well as parents, as learners continue the journey through lifelong learning in the 'knowledge society'.
Searching for Knowledge: Teaching Information Technology to Secondary Students
Authors: Howe Eleanor B.
Published: April 2021

This paper discusses the importance of accurate knowledge to a knowledge-based society and presents the rationale, organization, and content of a short course in electronic search skills that enables students to retrieve accurate information by evaluating their searches, citations, and resources in a variety of databases. Focusing on the Seven Steps in the electronic search process, the course develops students' skills in thinking, computer literacy, and the ethical use of information. Students learn the concepts, process, and skills of information literacy and technology as they integrate the results of their searches into subject areas across the secondary curriculum. A syllabus and daily topics are included.
Collaboratively Building Digital Libraries: Focus on Local Historical Resources for Educational Use
Authors: A. N. Zainab , Abdullah Abrizah , W. K. Ng
Published: April 2021

COREDEV (Collaborative Resource Development) is a proposed digital library for historical resources that supports the development of digital content collaboratively. A prototype biographical portal that could handle information on Malaysian personalities was chosen as the domain for the test-bed. The biographical portal incorporates five main basic features: (a) uploading, indexing, searching and retrieval modules supports the creation, capturing and sharing of historical data from distributed sites and user groups (This environment helps produce the desired outcome in terms of ICT literate teachers and students and provide the experience of creating or publishing in digital libraries); (b) supporting multi-format digital resources (text, images, audio and video clips); (c) providing a facility for searching the contents of the digital libraries from simple keyword searches, specific occurrences of words in specific fields and a combination of terms using Boolean operators; (d) providing user controlled display (user may choose search and retrieval screens either in Malay or English language, determine the number of results to be displayed (5, 10 or 20 records and browse thumbnail objects before zooming on specific details); (e) ensuring basic security features (authentication, registration of users and requirements of validation for all uploads by members before it is searchable through the Internet). Other information provided includes a brief introduction about the system, frequently asked questions (FAQ), terms and conditions for those interested in participating, help and edutainment features and linkages to other related resources.
Issues for School Libraries in the Pacific: A Case Study - Western Samoa
Authors: Murray Janet , Godinet Jacinta
Published: April 2021

This paper reviews the literature and previous research about the development of school libraries in South Pacific countries. Then the practical issues currently facing school libraries in the South Pacific are considered, drawing on recent experiences in Samoa, where the authors have worked together on the upgrading of libraries in government schools. Some of the issues arising from this work, and possible solutions, are discussed.
Building Understanding of the Information Search Process Through Student Journal Writing
Authors: Harada Violet H.
Published: April 2021

How is information transformed into knowledge? As library media specialists, our challenge is to help young people move from mechanics to meaning making in the information search process. This qualitative research study examined how journal writing reflected both the cognitive understandings and the affective expressions of students as they progressed through assigned research projects. The investigation, which was conducted at two elementary schools in Hawaii, also addressed how journal writing influenced modifications made in library instruction and how the journals affected librarians' one-on-one interaction with students. Research methodology employed, related studies examined, and findings discovered are described in this paper.
The Position of South African Children's and Youth Literature in Librarian Training in South Africa
Authors: Hart Genevieve
Published: April 2021

A survey of 16 South African library schools was undertaken to identify children's literature courses. Eighteen courses were found at eight institutions. The lecturers responsible were then interviewed - giving details of course content, resources available and their perceptions of their challenges. The courses are clearly under threat and very little emphasis is placed on South African literature. The intervention of the Library and Information Association of South Africa and library organisations is called for.
Canadian First Nations Women Preservice Teachers' Experiences and Perceptions Regarding Technology
Authors: Luther Fran
Published: April 2021

The primary purpose of this research was to collect data for Canadian First Nations educators and policy makers to use in making decisions surrounding issues of First Nations women and technology education. Nine First Nations women preservice teachers at the intern stage of their Indian Teacher Education Program at the University of Saskatchewan were engaged in indepth interviews concerning their experiences and perceptions regarding technology.

The study found that the participants defined technology first and foremost as computer-related. Some viewed technology from the cultural aspect, and thought technology used for financial gain would take away from traditional family values. The participants thought that women needed technology training and that they needed to develop self-confidence and become role models in order for First Nations women to exercise leadership in the field of technology.

The participants stated that their university experience was responsible for most of their learning about technology. They did not, however, feel prepared to face the technology they would encounter in schools.

Intimidation, stereotypes, the lack of access and exposure to technology, the lack of a good self-image, lack of time, and lack of role models were perceived to be some of the biggest barriers to First Nations women learning about and using technology. Men in their use of intimidation and stories with negative images of women and technology were perceived as one of the strongest deterrents to First Nations women advancing in the area of technology.

Findings from this study had significant implications. First Nations teacher preparation programs should include required credit courses and establish daycare centers. Band controlled schools should update computers and make provisions for technology education by providing for such courses. Further research such as a collection of stories embracing positive images of First Nations women involved in technological pursuits should be undertaken to help ameliorate the status of First Nations women in technology.
Censorship in High School Libraries in Israel: An Analysis of School Sectorial Affiliation Effect
Authors: Yitzhaki Moshe
Published: April 2021

Although school libraries have existed in Israel for several decades, some of them dating back to the 50's, the issue of censorship has not been studied. The objective of this full-blown study was to empirically assess the current state of censorship in a large sample of high school libraries in Israel, following an exploratory study. The sample comprised 98 high schools, from both the 'religious' and `nonreligious' sectors. The main research tool was a two-parts questionnaire, designed to be filled out during the researcher's visit to the library. Most librarians reported that some form of control, restriction or supervision was, always or very often, applied to books being added to the collection, usually by the head librarian, and/or the school principal. None of the libraries had any kind of written document, or even an unwritten statement specifying instructions or policy regarding book selection and acquisition. The librarians never mentioned any external pressure to censor the existing collection or books to be acquired, and clearly the censorship was strictly internal, initiated by the librarians themselves and other members of the school staff. In both sectors there was wide agreement on banning titles which included violence, hard pornography, racism and drugs, but there were considerable differences regarding 'soft' pornography, sexual permissiveness and books degrading the Jewish religion or its values, principles or commands. A comparison of four lists of specific titles against the catalogs showed that the non-religious sector libraries owned three times the percentage from the first list (explicit violence and sex), but only less than half the percentage from the fourth list ('Judaism'), compared to the religious sector. Interestingly, the religious group had lower percentages of both the `right-wing' and `left-wing' lists, due to its smaller collections, but had relatively more from the `right-wing' list than the `left-wing' one, while in the libraries of the non-religious sector the situation was reversed.
Patterns of Information Seeking among Israeli 12th Grade High School Students Writing Final Research Papers
Authors: Yitzhaki Moshe , Bibi Mihal
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the present study was to examine areas of interest and information seeking patterns of Israeli 12th graders who engaged in research work for their final research paper, an optional partial requirement for obtaining an official matriculation diploma. A detailed questionnaire, based on former studies was disseminated in high schools all over the country, yielding 200 usable questionnaires. Main findings: topping the list of chosen topics were the humanities (44%), followed by the sciences (33%), and the social sciences (24%). Considerable differences were found between girls and boys. Girls preferred topics from the social sciences (mainly sociology) and from the humanities (except history) while boys preferred scientific topics. Most respondents had a computer at home (93%) which was usually connected to the Internet (78%) and they had taken some computer course in the past (70%) although a considerable proportion, more girls than boys, did not make use of them. Gender was found to be significantly associated with the chosen field. Taking a computer course and use of home Internet were found to be associated with searching the Internet in the process of information seeking while working on the final paper. A home computer connected to the Internet was associated with the use of formal and informal information sources. The school library was the most-visited one followed by academic, public and home libraries. However, a considerable proportion of the respondents reported no or few visits only.

Most respondents reported receiving only little or no advice and guidance regarding the library and database searching. When guidance was provided, it usually consisted of a single-session on a personal basis. Guidance given by a teacher was frequently face to face, with the student more likely to use an OPAC, while when given by a university teacher it was usually in front of a computer, followed by lesser use of OPACs. In summation, although most students were aware of powerful new IT tools, their use is not as prevalent as may be assumed, mainly due to poor or inadequate guidance.
Knowledge Management: Key to Partnerships, Learning Outcomes, and Resourcing a Learning Community
Authors: Todd Ross J.
Published: April 2021

This paper provides an understanding of the concept of knowledge management and its role in the creation of an integrated information environment for effective learning in schools. It presents findings from a research project being undertaken at the University of Technology, Sydney that seeks to identify from the perspective of librarians, including teacher-librarians, the significant dimensions of knowledge management, the key understandings and skills required for effective knowledge management, and the role of librarians engaging in knowledge management processes in libraries and information agencies. The implications for teacher-librarians are examined in this report.
Information Literacy and Web Based Teaching: Teachers Untangle the Web with Online Learning and Information Literacy Skills
Authors: Selby Linda , Trebilcock Maureen
Published: April 2021

The Centre for Information Studies at Auckland College of Education has delivered a range of courses to primary, intermediate and secondary teachers throughout New Zealand since 1991 using distance delivery methods. The courses have focused on designing strategies, frameworks and learning experiences that enhance information literacy in classrooms. These papers credit to one of three specialist diplomas: the Diploma of Teacher Librarianship; the Diploma of Information Studies; or, the Diploma of Information Technology. The course referred to in this paper is called Telelearning. It was converted to web-based delivery in 1999. The main considerations in the conversion of the course were to maintain the original course aim and objectives, to ensure adequate support for the students in their use of the technology, and to make sure that the use of the technology actually added value to the learning process.
Implementing Flexible Scheduling in Elementary Libraries
Authors: McGregor Joy H.
Published: April 2021

Flexible scheduling in school libraries can provide a mechanism for achieving the learning goals and objectives of both the school library program and the curriculum by making information available at the point of need and by promoting use of the library and its services at a relevant moment instead of on a predetermined schedule. This study examined the successful implementation of flexible scheduling in six elementary schools where no funding was received to support implementation. Telephone interviews with librarians, principals, and teachers provided the data. The preliminary results indicate that, in those schools with successful implementations, flexible scheduling was only a tool to achieve another internal curricular objective, such as curriculum integration or literacy improvement. In addition, education of stakeholders is essential; and it must emphasize strategies for effective use of the programs supported by flexible scheduling and their potential learning outcomes rather than simply provide information on how flexible scheduling works.
The United States National Library Power Program: Research, Evaluation and Implications for Professional Development and Library Education
Authors: McAfee Hopkins Dianne , Zweizig Douglas L.
Published: April 2021

The Library Power Program is a school improvement initiative of the DeWitt-Wallace Reader's Digest Fund that began in 1988. With a total investment exceeding US$45 million, Library Power is the largest nongovernmental funding for school library media programs in over 30 years. It operated in approximately 700 schools and served more than one million students. Library Power sought to create a national vision of public elementary and middle school library media programs through the instructional leadership of the library media specialist, and through partnerships within the district and with the community. An evaluation of the Library Power Program found that the Library Power initiative advanced the notion of a student-centered library media program in a learning community. It showed that given the right conditions, school library media programs can promote positive opportunities for excellence in teaching and learning.
Treasure Hunt or Torture: Student's Perspectives on Research Projects
Authors: Steitenberger Denise , McGregor Joy
Published: April 2021

Two naturalistic research studies observed forty-five eleventh grade students carrying out research paper assignments and a third such study focussed 26 third grade students. The studies took place in Alberta (Canada) in 1993; Texas (USA) in 1996; and in Washington state (USA) in 1999. From data analyzed in the interviews and written documents, the initial findings indicate that third grade and eleventh grade students feel and think about research writing activities similarly. The younger students seemed more process oriented than the older ones. The third grade students commented on enjoying reading the information on their topic and telling the facts they had learned. The older students used methods of citation and more sophisticated paraphrasing techniques. The younger students did not use any citations. The amount of blatant copying for the Texas study and the Washington study were comparable. The mental models of both age groups were surprisingly similar.
The Impact of Whole Language on Four Elementary School Libraries: Results from a Comparative Case Study
Authors: Hughes Sandra
Published: April 2021

This paper reports the findings of a comparative case study designed to describe how the implementation of whole language, an educational philosophy influencing many of today's elementary schools, evolved in four school libraries in Virginia. The study examines the impact of whole language in terms of its effect on the library program and its effect on the librarian. The study also seeks to understand the change agent role each librarian played during implementation of the philosophy. It provides recommendations for practicing school librarians and library school educators.