In order to be an effective school librarian, Old Dominion University asks MLIS candidates to demonstrate their ability to meet the ALA/AASL/CAEP School Librarian Preparation Standards. Over the course of the ODU program, I have listened to lectures, researched and read many articles, and created finished products that all reflect my learning, understanding, and application of these standards. I feel confident that I go forward in my career with the ALA/AASL/CAEP standards as a strong foundation as an effective library educator.
Standard 1: The Learner and Learning
Recognizing that there is no “one size fits all” for our community of learners, it is my job to consider the learner development, diversity and differences while fostering a positive learning environment. (AASL, 2019). The collection development plan is an example of knowing the students and creating resources that reflect their needs. The collection development plan takes into account not only the cultural differences but also offers differentiation for learning styles, special needs and physical accommodations. This collection development plan will extend into my lessons, making sure to create inclusive and equitable learning for all students and create opportunities for them to learn skills that are not only applicable in the library but also beyond into their future lives.
Standard 2: Planning for Instruction
Creating a collaborative lesson plan meets Standard 1 but I wish to highlight the work in this section. Working to plan, deliver and assess instruction was much more challenging than I had expected. Balancing the time constraints in order to connect and collaborate with a teaching colleague, along with mapping out time to plan for pre and post assessments, mixed in with time for technology-enabled instruction and student reflection led to an intense experience. I took away that creating inquiry-based lessons on information literacy are much needed and a valued addition to a student’s learning. While the challenges will always be there, the benefits of this type of planning yield results that can impact an entire school and provide skills that last a lifetime.
Standard 3: Knowledge and Application of Content
The collaborative lesson plan also falls under this standard as well, as it was specifically designed to address critical thinking, inquiry skills, as well as addressing finding digital resources. The pathfinder I created also reflects my ability to create instructional technologies that aid my students in fostering motivation to read while learning to utilize technology to help find resources. I look forward to modeling best practices as well as developing strategies to aid in creating digital citizens in our middle school.
Standard 4: Organization and Access
Highlighting the ethical use of resources in a variety of formats, my digital tools presentation demonstrates my ability to curate, organize and present information that meets the diverse needs of our community and beyond. In addition to the digital forum, it is apparent that our library would benefit from designing strategic solutions to access both resources but also to services. The collection development plan discusses some of these plans in the 3 year goal, and could be expanded upon to further foster growth and enjoyment of the library for all.
Standard 5: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Responsibility
Learning to advocate and participate in activities that lead to collaboration and professional development have been a highlight of the ODU MLIS program. As I talk about in both my letter to the editor and grant proposal walk thru videos, these assignments elevated my professional abilities and will continue to make an impact throughout my career. I will use these assignments as stepping stones to build upon and elaborate on as I go forward and look for other opportunities to add my voice to the proponents of school librarianship and to seek out funding in an ethical and professional manner.
Conclusion
I am grateful for the tools ODU has provided me. This e-portfolio is a reflection of that work that has been done but also gives a glimpse into the work that will come. I plan to use these materials as a touchstone to check in on myself to see if I am still adhering to these standards and to reflect on which areas that could be improved. I go forward with a wealth of resources and a strong sense of support from those I have met along the way. I am ready to take on the role of Head Librarian.
Resource:
American Association of School Libraries. (2019). ALA/AASL/CAEP school librarian preparation standards. ALA Retrieved from: https://www.ala.org/aasl/sites/ala.org.aasl/files/content/aasleducation/ALA_AASL_CAEP_School_Librarian_Preparation_Standards_2019_Final.pdf