Blog 10 Connections

 

I am sure at this point in the semester I have overused the comparison of using information technology resources as the power tools of learning for the library. The idea of using technology as an important instrument in the classroom has been woven through every module, we have covered over the last 15 weeks.  Integrating technology to support curriculum objectives and as a means to engage students in learning is fundamental component of school librarianship. We have explored the who, what, why, and how of using different technology and resources to cultivate literacy skills based on the AASL Framework for learners. The reason I keep returning to the tool analogy, is because it seems important point to remember that the more we explore new advances in tech resources for learning, we also must be clear with our objectives, purpose, and understanding of proper usage of the various instruments in order to maximize the potential benefits.  Intentionality in purpose is a way of approaching lessons that incorporate  technology into the library. Concepts like coding, dimensional printing, and robotics are the methods we use to engage learning for students not the purpose. When a student comes into the library, I want to consider what personal learning takes place and how we can transform ideas into knowledge. I also think we have to be ok with planting seeds and letting the learning grow organically rather than expecting immediate results from activities so the sake of using technology.

This fall my son started printing all sorts of things on the 3D printer. Fiddling around led to experimenting with different print options and researching programs like tinker cad. Those experiments lead to idea of printing cookie cutters to sell. The idea transformed into writing a business plan and his first entrepreneurial experience. He didn’t see it as a learning process that gave him vital career skills like problem solving or planning. Using the technology expanded his design skills and computer literacy into a new way of thinking. All of that learning was done with enjoyment and by cultivating personal inquiry rather than meeting some outside expectation. Finding ways to use the tools of technology with mindful intention and opening doors to exploration is how we make the library classroom relevant and meaningful place.

Whether we are exploring space from virtual headsets, building bridges, or laughing over video bloopers in an AV class, there is so much potential for creating new connections in the school media center. Libraries can use social media platforms and maker spaces to improve communication and innovation. Information technology creates connections to new resources, connections to technology, connections for friendships, and connections that will be foundations for the next big ideas from our students and school staff.