I have always believed in the concept that, “two heads are better than one.” This is my mantra as I work towards establishing a stronger relationship with our faculty and conveying the message that one of the keys to our students’ success is by working together to assist them as they travel the road to academic achievement. I work at a small, private vocational school. The school offers what I call a “blended learning environment,” in that students acquire a trade skill (in design [fashion, interior, graphic, digital media) as well as earn either an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in business management. Many instructors are working professionals in their industry and who share their work experience in the classroom. While their sharing of professional work experience is extremely valuable, it does challenge their skills in understanding what students need to succeed in an educational environment. I find myself at the reference desk assisting students in deciphering instructions given to them from their instructors as they attempt to complete course assignments. After careful consideration, and observation over time, I have come to the conclusion that the instructors are focused on teaching their subjects and not on preparing students on the skills necessary to complete the work as assigned. Students are often given the directive, “just go to the Library” and they will help you. This is confusing for students, as it is for staff, as neither one of us are mind readers when it comes to figuring out what it is the instructor wants from their students. In speaking with instructors, I am learning that many believe that students are aware of how to use the Library and conduct research. Further, many assume that students gain experience with research and using the Library while attending high school. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. I have had many conversations with frustrated instructors as they express concern over their students’ lack of ability and are surprised to learn that their assumption (that students gain this experience while in high school) is, in many cases, invalid. Needless to say, I was honored when recently invited to participate in a newly established Research Task Force where department chairs, instructors, and library staff will meet to discuss ways to improve learning outcomes and more importantly, assist students achieve their educational goals. I am looking forward to this new collaborative journey and will share my experiences here as they unfold. Stay tuned…
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