As searchers, we provided technical expertise in a mediator role. In becoming teachers, we have accepted a new role as mentors, offering theoretical, conceptual expertise. As fledgling teachers, we have our ups and downs. Yet as difficult and frustrating as teaching can be, the librarians are in agreement that IFL 101 is the right thing to do because of the lifelong impact it can have on students. For many of us, teaching has become the focus of our professional development activities.
Teachers learn effective ways to teach, illustrate, and reinforce research concepts.
Librarian-teachers find ways to translate their research expertise into short, manageable lessons that students can master. Students depend on context and personal connections to help the research skills stick. Librarian-teachers maneuver through the research process, pointing students toward connections and context. The key is to articulate a workable process not to spout research steps, but to help students to adapt the process to fit their needs. Teaching is a difficult fit for some of us.