Maybe the first question to ask is why give an assignment? Whether assignments are designed to use library resources or not, they are essential in developing students' skills in research, critical thinking, and communication. With the digital age upon us, the end result is some type of communication, whether it be in written oral, or digital format.

What is a library assignment?

Library assignments, like any other assignment must have a specific, clearly stated purpose. Typically it bears some relationship to the subject matter of the course or the stated learning objectives. It focuses on the process of locating information that is relevant to the subject. Once the information is located, the student must be able to critically evaluate what they have found.

How do I make an effective library assignment?

There are several things you can do to get the best results from your assignments. Some of them may be second nature to you, but it's always a good idea to double check and make sure you've covered everything. First and foremost - be sure the assignment has a clearly stated objective. It should explain in measurable terms what the student is expected to do. If they can't understand what they are supposed to do, they will surely have trouble doing it!

Use consistent language. Is it a journal, a periodical, or a magazine? Decide on the terms you intend to use and stick with it. If you intend to use terms interchangeably, then let the students know. When you refer to the Web, do you mean the Web or the Internet? The Web is just one facet of the Internet. Do you consider the library databases the Internet? These things cause an enormous amount of student confusion. If they are confusing to you, give us a call and we'll help you through the terms.

Do the assignment yourself...

Now there's a popular statement! This exercise can show you a few things. First you'll see just how long it takes to do the assignment (are you giving it enough weight or too little weight), you'll also find out what resources are current and relevant, and last but not least is it a feasible assignment to give. The assumption is very often made that there is information on every conceivable topic on the Web. That's probably true, but is it appropriate information and are there other resources that might be better?

Teach research strategies

Most students need step by step instructions in the process, it's not as intuitive to new students as it is to "seasoned students" like yourselves. The process allows the student to organize their thoughts and develop a plan of action.

Some suggestions are to look at sample topics in class and discus whether they are too broad or to narrow and why. Make your own list of topics or have the students bring their topics in to discuss. Your list might be a little less threatening until they get used to the process.

What's a sample research strategy?

Here's an idea to use to get started with teaching your students a research strategy - or you could invite the librarians into your class.

• Define a topic. You can star by using the text or an encyclopedia to gather background information
• Make a list of key words and subject headings for the topic
• Search the online catalog to locate books on your topic
• Use the Library web page to search online databases and indexes for articles
• Provide a resource list.

Our job as teachers is to provide a bridge not a barrier to student learning. Start off by providing a list of reliable resources for your students to use. This will give them a head start and little by little they will become proficient at finding their own resources. Need help with a list - call a librarian!

Keep the librarians in your corner...

There are a few assignments frequently given to students that leave the library staff pulling their hair out. Here are a few things you might want to consider staying away from:

• Giving the entire class one topic to research or one piece of information to find
• Incomplete or incorrect information (yes, it does happen)
• Assigning material the library does not own
• Impossibly vague topics
• Sending students on scavenger hunt for answers to obscure, factual questions. This is very frustrating for students, doesn't do much for their research skills, and ends up being an assignment for the librarians.

What are some types of library assignments?

• Traditional research papers
• Case-based or problem-based assignments
• Multimedia presentations
• Annotated bibliographies

Some parting thoughts.

Consult with the librarians before you develop your assignment. While we can't create the assignment for you, we can help in the development and offer suggestions.

• Give a copy of the assignment to the librarians in advance, you might want to also give us any recommended resources.
• Ask the librarians for feedback on the assignment. We can provide you with information on how well the students seemed to understand the assignment or tell you about any problems related to resource materials.