Composition Library Instruction: Explore

ACRL IL Standard 1: The information literate student determines what information is needed and why.

1. Identify library resources and services.
2. Locate background information from general resources.
3. Identify key concepts and vocabulary related to a topic.
4. Develop a working thesis statement and ask research questions related to it.

Carmichael 101 sessions are intended to acquaint students with the library space, staff, and resources.  Select one of these classes for an introductory session early in the semester, then bring your students back later for assignment-specific instruction.

The Anti-Tour
Time: Full Class Period
SLOs: 1.1, 1.3

As student groups navigate the library, they complete five activities that help them practice foundational research skills such as developing keywords, searching a database, and finding books.  The Anti-Tour is highly customizable to your class theme and readings.  

More Info: Fall 2012 Anti-Tour Class Guide

Ethnographers in the Stacks
Time: Full Class Period
SLO: 1.1

Students become ethnographers for an hour as they observe the library environment and inhabitants, take fieldnotes, and draw maps.  By sharing their findings at the end of class, students learn about library services and resources.

More Info: Carmichael Library Blog Post

Tumblring through the Library
Time: Full Class Period
SLO: 1.1

Students are given a series of 5-7 questions about the library.  In groups, they use the Tumblr iPad app to add pictures and captions of their findings to a class Tumblr.  As we discuss the pictures at the end of class, students learn about library services and resources.

More Info: Example of Class Tumblr

Instagrama-rama
Time: Full Class Period
SLO: 1.1

 *UNDER CONSTRUCTION!*

Explore Classes allow students to practice developing a research topic and finding background information.  

Reference Roundup
Time: 25 minutes
SLO: 1.2, 1.3

Students use selected print and electronic reference materials to gather background information about a topic.  The research experience is guided by a series of questions or a research log specially designed for your assignment.

Flipboard Flip-Out Appy Hour
Time: 25 minutes
SLO: 1.2

Students use the Flipboard iPad app to curate a collection of websites and blog posts about a topic.

Mindmapper Mindmeld Appy Hour
Time: 20 minutes
SLO: 1.4

Students use the Mindmeister iPad app to create a concept map about a research topic.

Constructing Concept Maps
Time: 20 minutes
SLO: 1.4

Students use good old-fashioned butcher paper and markers to create a concept map about a research topic.