Embedding information literacy in an MA TESOL program

Abstract

Purpose -This case study aims to describe the collaborative process used to embed an information literacy curriculum into the MA Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program at university. Design/methodology/approach -The study focuses on how this curriculum was conceived, implemented, and has evolved based on new ideas from the MA coordinator, the librarian, the students, and continuing review of the literature of librarianship and TESOL. The coordinator and librarian describe their approach to curriculum development and their analysis of curricular outcomes, and two graduates from the program describe the program's impact from the student perspective. Findings -The paper finds that the MA TESOL coordinator and the librarian embedded information literacy through structured assignments, reflective essays, and librarian in-person classroom visits. Ongoing assessment of student survey results and reflective essays provide impetus for ongoing changes to the curriculum. Students' perceptions about and practice of information literacy enrich their program experiences and improve their preparation for further academic work or subsequent TESOL teaching. Research limitations/implications -More follow up is needed with the three cohorts that have completed the MA program since the development of the embedded information literacy curriculum. Practical implications -In their own teaching, graduates emphasize information literacy to their students, further increasing the impact of this program. Social implications -Students develop a closer relationship with the librarian and think differently and more regularly about libraries and information literacy principles. Originality/value -There is a growing body of library literature on embedded librarianship and language learning students, but none focusing exclusively on the role of information literacy in the preparation of teachers of language learning students.

Collaborating with Nonlibrary Faculty for Assessment and Improved Instruction

“…As this perspective and trust is developed between faculty and librarians, multiple opportunities arise for librarians to become integral parts of faculty courses, including initial design, delivery, and/or final course products. Examples of successful collaborations include teaching disadvantaged students how to use the available technologies and services to increase completion and success rates (Clarke, 2012); becoming a portal to parallel research and collections to provide a broader or different approach to instruction and research (Dilevko, 2013); providing research and writing instruction using a problem-based learning approach (Hines & Hines, 2012); assisting in curriculum development through the location and teaching of specific resources related to the course (Mazella & Grob, 2011;Soules, Nielsen, Lee, & Rifae, 2013); and engaging with faculty at the university council level to increase understanding of librarian and faculty needs (Mix, 2013).…”