Coursework


 * Coursework for 902 License:**


 * Cataloging** UW-Eau Claire Although much cataloging is now done using WISCAT resources or a system such as Destiny, knowing how to catalog items "the old way" gives one a sense of how far technology has come and respects those who devised the various systems in use in libraries today. The Dewey decimal system has stood the test of time, but it is not the only system used. This course, very mathematical and precise by nature, provided an in-depth understanding of subject headings used to assist in searches for materials and also knowledge of how to catalog anything, including odd items that might make their way into a library collection (e.g., realia such as a set of bones, a doll, etc.).


 * Collection Development** /**Research** UW-Whitewater The focus of this course was on building a collection that serves the needs of students and staff that will be using it. The syllabus for the course (Summer 2009) was as follows: //Selecting the right materials for a library's community of user is intellectually challenging and rewarding activity. This course will deal with the// //theoretical principles that guide collection development and management and the practical aspects of the process: assessing user and instructional needs, intellectual freedom, developing and carrying out policies, evaluating materials, selecting materials, acquiring materials, assessing electronic resources, weeding,and collection evaluation. Issues that affect the process, such as library cooperation, copyright, and censorship, will be covered. Emphasis will be on school libraries.//


 * Instructional Technology** UW-Oshkosh This was one of my favorite courses. We made non-linear powerpoints, digital booktalks, weblogs, and did some desktop publishing (newsletters and brochures). Learning how to embed videos, changing features in digital presentations, and using creative touches were all important steps in projects for this class.


 * Information Literacy** UW-Oshkosh // This course prepares School Library Media Specialists and other educators to teach students information literacy skills (the ability to access, evaluate and use information from a variety of sources) through the study of the goals and methods of library/media instruction, and to integrate //t //hose skills into the school curriculum and assess student achievement.// (from Fall 2010 Syllabus) There was a high level of sharing of ideas, lesson plans, and methods throughout this class, which, I believe, paves the way for collaboration with teachers in the work setting. The material covered in the class was practical, could be used immediately in the library setting, and was very valuable in building resources to be used with staff and students.


 * Administration of School** **Libraries** UW-Madison In this class, students had the opportunity to Skype with Doug Johnson, a leading figure in library media today and the author of one of the textbooks used for the course. Learning about all the state studies (including Wisconsin's) about the effectiveness of school library programs and their impact on student achievement was very valuable. A link to results of the WI study can be found on the first page of this wiki. Focus of the course was on management and instructional issues in school libraries. Some of the tasks included data collection resource study, collaboration ideas, and common school fund study.


 * Children's Literature** UW-Oshkosh Some of the requirements of this course were to read many books in many genres, including picture books, traditional fantasy, poetry, contemporary realistic fiction, modern fantasy, historical fiction and biography, as well as multi-cultural books and non-fiction/informational books geared to children. Students were also introduced to awards given for children's literature, including the Caldecott for illustrations and Newbery for fiction. The course description for this Summer 2008 class reads as follows: //Helping children realize that "reading" is so much more than merely a school subject is one of the primary goals of a Library Media Specialist. In this course, you will grow in your understanding of children's literature. You will explore ways to use literature effectively in a classroom environment, while building awareness of books as a means of recreation, information and education. You will develop a repertoire of ideas and materials that will enhance your skills in the art of teaching. Course content will include many genres of children's literature, as well as information on technology-based educational resources. You will learn the criteria for choosing quality books for your students, and most importantly, you will read many books and reflect on them as you build a collection of materials to strengthen and enhance the curriculum of your classroom or library.//


 * Young Adult Literature** UW-Superior This course was designed to introduce the student to the wide range of literature available for young adults in many categories, including historical fiction, non-fiction, short story, novel in verse or poetic form, graphic novels, and multi-cultural and diversity centered literature. With so many coming of age stories popular with this age group, issues around intellectual freedom and access to information were also explored. Booktalking techniques were covered. Trends and issue in young adult literature and popular author were also topics of study.


 * Practicum** UW-Oshkosh This course is the culminating activity in the library/media program of study. After development of objectives based on standards from the American Association of School Librarians and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, the student had to meet those goals through experiences that totaled at least 200 hours and that spanned the grade levels K-12. Much of my work was done at Slinger Middle School and Slinger High School, with elementary hours mostly at Saylesville Elementary in Rubicon.