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(202) 885-3238
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research@american.edu
The library offers a variety of instructional programming that includes curriculum-integrated sessions, tutorials, and other online learning modules that support the development of students' information literacy and research skills.
Faculty and teaching assistants may request curriculum-integrated library instruction sessions to introduce undergraduate and graduate students to information literacy concepts, including critical thinking regarding the construction of information, as well as techniques for accessing and evaluating information. Many instruction sessions are tied to individual research assignments for a course, but some may discuss more conceptual issues related to information access and use.
The library's instructional efforts are aligned with the library Information Literacy Plan, which aims to meet СÀ¶ÊÓƵ's programmatic and department/school-focused learning objectives. Additionally, information literacy instruction at СÀ¶ÊÓƵ Library is influenced by , which outlines threshold concepts for the mastery of information literacy. The ACRL Framework consists of six conceptual frames:
The integration of information literacy teaching and learning is a fundamental element in the contribution to the critical thinking skills for students at СÀ¶ÊÓƵ, and is necessary to foster lifelong learning.
СÀ¶ÊÓƵ Library's Division of Research, Teaching & Learning has implemented a three-tiered information literacy plan that aims to take a comprehensive approach to developing the information literacy skills of students over the course of their college careers. Features of the program are:
Tier One instruction and materials provide a broad, general introduction to major information literacy concepts and skills. Tier One often aligns with СÀ¶ÊÓƵ Core foundation course learning outcomes, but is not limited to these classes. Tier One concepts are also covered in .Ìý
Tier Two instruction and materials assume prior Tier One instruction, and builds on concepts introduced in Tier One courses, while also advancing and contextualizing concepts and skills from a disciplinary perspective. Tier Two may align with СÀ¶ÊÓƵ Core integrative course learning outcomes, but is not limited to these classes.
Tier Three instruction assumes prior Tier Two instruction or external knowledge, and builds and synthesizes concepts introduced in Tier One and Tier Two, while also continuing to advance and refine relevant concepts and skills within the discipline which allow student-scholars to create information. Tier Three aligns with the СÀ¶ÊÓƵ Core Capstone course, but is not limited to this class.