Reflection+3+Due+April+2012

Final Reflection using Blooms Taxonomy



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 * 1) **Recognition**: The last few chapters had a common theme of access. How can we get our students to access documents that are primary sources? How can we get them to access new information in new ways? How can we teach students what they need to know in a way that they are able to easily access based on their learning style and readiness level? Using the Library of Congress primary sources that are audio files will be a great way to begin this adventure.
 * 2) **Knowledge**: It should be common knowledge, yet it is not, that libraries contribute to higher reading scores when the circumstances are right. The certified librarian and comfortable reading environment both help. Students who receive help in locating the right book that is accessible and is of interest are more apt to develop a desire to read. The environment encourages reading when the librarian and staff make it open and accessible throughout the day. The environment is also key to starting the relationship where the student feels comfortable entering the library and getting assistance from the LMS. The LMS needs to make sure to interview the students and learn about their reading level so they can match the right book with the right student.
 * 3) **Comprehension**: Alternative and authentic assessment are important for students to show what they know. Students have to be able to prove they have the skills deemed important for on grade level progress and so it is up to the teacher to ensure that the students meet these demands. Teachers may have to modify assignments for the students readiness level in order to make sure they are hitting the benchmark that is cognitively feasible for the student.
 * 4) **Application**: The LMS can lead the way on portfolio assessments by instructing the students and staff on how to create a live binder. The live binder should have information literacy or core content standards and the students would have to upload and show evidence that they have met the standard. The student could then present the portfolio to the board (LMS, Admin, Teachers) for review before they move the high school or graduate. Each standard would have to be met before they could graduate.
 * 5) **Analysis**: It has always been an issue to try and make the connection from circulation stats or book talks to reading scores. How can the LMS prove that the work they are doing is effective? One way is to have the alternative assessments with journals, logs, wikis, or blogs. Some studies have been conducted but how can I do my own for my school? How can I help prove my worth so my job does not end up on the chopping block in the years to come? It would seem to me that I need to start with basic tests for a baseline. I would then have to track and record my lessons and do summative assessments to show improvement. The running records and portfolios could also be used but our district is more focused on the bottom line-ITBS/IOWA CORE. These are the scores I am going to have to prove that I can make a positive impact on in order to show the LMS position is worth it.
 * 6) **Synthesis**: The fact that people still think an LMS is not a teacher is amazing. This position is one of a lead teacher for the building. The teacher librarian really needs to be able to work well with others, implement district and admin initiatives as well as teach all stall members and students. The role of the LMS is one of great leadership. I am a curriculum coach, tech coach, literacy specialist, research specialist, IT, manager, merchandiser, salesperson, buyer, innovator, reading expert and much more. This is not a job for the weak or those that are not intrinsically motivated. I have to be patient, flexible, understanding, strong, encouraging, inspiring, approachable, and knowledgeable so both students and teachers will feel comfortable coming to me for help. At the beginning of the semester I was unclear about the various models for researching as well as IBL or PBL. I now feel confident in implementing the BIG6 and will continue to learn about IBL. This class has been the most important one that I have taken thus far. When I talk to my other teacher librarian friends they mention Stripling, Pappa and Tepe, or Kuhlthau, I know who they are talking about and am able to have a frame of reference. I also feel that the use of the various types of technology will help me show my teachers how they can use it with students. As an English teacher I really thought that I was teaching my students how to research. Through this class I have learned that I was really just teaching them how to write a paper and the teacher librarian is the person to teach ISP. This is is position that is constantly changing and it will be my charge to stay up to date with the latest information, resources, trends, etc.
 * 1) **Evaluation**: I am going to have to keep the article by Krashen on the increased reading scores due to a certified librarian and see if my school's scores increase next year. This year we implemented a new test statewide so it is a norming year. I will have to see if I can look at some of the tests or get some of the practice sites to see what is being tested specifically and how I can develop my collection with both what the students want and what they need. I may also have to a better job at creating contests that foster more reading. RC and AR were removed from our district this year and the kids have been a little lost as to what to read and why. The teachers have had a hard time holding the kids accountable and the only thing I have done is put a [|book poster.docx] outside each teacher classroom for them to list the book they are reading. I was hoping that students would start to see that we all read even when we don't have to do it for class. Since the Iowa Core is focused on IBL, I am going to need to make sure that I support this change and figure out ways to implement professional development and make it to teacher plan time. The staff is going to need a lot of direction and I am going to have to be the support they need. I am also going to have to find an online resource for me to use as my toolbox for staying up to date on all the latest trends and information resources.