Instruction and Training
Classroom Instruction

Librarians at the University of Oregon are available to work with UO instructors to provide instruction on topics such as:

• overview of relevant library resources, both print and electronic
• defining and narrowing a research topic
• developing a search strategy
• finding and locating books
• finding and locating journal articles
• finding Internet resources
• critical evaluation of resources
• ethical use of information (citing sources, etc.)
• copyright and intellectual property
• specialized resources such as GIS, database management programs, presentation software, etc., when appropriate

Librarians will work with you to design a class (or classes) with the appropriate mix of topics.

Course-Related Instruction

Course-related library instruction, which refers to one or more class (or part-of-class) sessions taught by a librarian and offered in the context of a discipline-based course, is one of the most effective ways to teach students the art of research, because it supplements the subject-oriented instruction they receive in the classroom with relevant instruction in information resources and search techniques.

These instructional sessions are even more effective if done in conjunction with a specific assignment that will give students opportunities to practice the skills and strategies taught. Librarians can assist in designing effective library-based assignments.

The timing of library sessions is crucial to student motivation and learning. Sessions should be timed to coincide with occasions when students will be working on their library assignments. The presence and involvement of faculty and teaching staff in the planning and teaching of a library session are critical to its success. Students are more engaged when the instructor participates in the session.

Librarians and instructors will work together to develop specific objectives for the library sessions, and collaborate in the development of custom tools such as assignments, presentations, exercises, handouts, and/or web pages that will support instruction.

To Schedule Course-Related Instruction:

Contact the libraries as early as possible (the more advance notice we have, the better); have at least one alternative date available.

• UO instructors: contact the libraries' subject specialist for your department.
• Other instructors: contact the Office of Library Instruction (please consult the policy on instruction and tours for community groups first).

Be prepared to talk about course objectives, your expectations for the course-related instruction, any assignment(s) related to the instruction, and any other preparation students will receive related to the assignment(s).

Other Group Instruction

The University of Oregon Libraries will provide instruction to UO, high school and community groups not tied to course instruction as time and resources permit. Contact Barbara Jenkins at 541/346-1925 to discuss your needs. Non-UO groups should first consult the libraries' policy on instruction and tours for community groups.