Your Craft as a Teaching Librarian: Using Acting Skills to Create a Dynamic Presence

Library instruction is similar to acting in that it involves a live audience, preparation, and performance. Acting techniques can help teachers develop their instructional skills, establish their teaching identity, enliven their performance, and create an invigorating learning experience for students. "Your Craft as a Teaching Librarian: Using Acting Skills to Create a Dynamic Presence" provides exercises, question and answer sections, and tips on deepening teaching skills. It can help teachers personalize and characterize their teaching presence, regardless of their experience level.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 130 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Association of College & Research Libraries

Library instruction is akin to acting, with a live audience present either in person or online, the possibility of engaging in one-shot or extended engagements, and the expectation of receiving feedback. What sets library instruction apart is the inherent role-playing aspect, where librarians assume various roles to facilitate learning. To excel in this role, it is essential to undergo thorough preparation before stepping onto the stage. This preparation involves centering oneself, honing physical and vocal skills, cultivating mindfulness, and overcoming stage fright.

In the Perform and Connect section, acting techniques are explored in depth. Librarians learn how to adopt different identities, engage in role-playing exercises, and respond dynamically to student actions and reactions. The focus is on developing information literacy skills and creating an engaging learning environment.

The Reflect and Sharpen section emphasizes the importance of assessment and adaptation. Librarians learn how to evaluate their teaching performances, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary adjustments to enhance their effectiveness. This includes exploring various assessment methods and incorporating feedback from students and colleagues.

Throughout the book, practical exercises and case studies are provided to facilitate the learning process. These exercises allow librarians to apply the techniques discussed in real-world scenarios and gain hands-on experience. Question and answer sections provide guidance on addressing potential challenges and finding solutions. Additionally, a glossary of acting terms and a comprehensive bibliography offer further insights and resources for those interested in exploring acting techniques in library instruction.

Your Craft as a Teaching Librarian is a valuable resource for librarians at all stages of their careers. Whether you are a novice instructor or an experienced librarian seeking to refresh your teaching approach, this book offers practical strategies and techniques to enhance your instructional performance. By adopting the principles of acting, librarians can infuse their teaching with creativity, authenticity, and a deep understanding of student needs. The result is a dynamic and engaging learning experience that leaves a lasting impact on students and contributes to the success of the library.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780838939178
Edition number: 2 Revised edition