Tag: ed

Computing and digital literacy initiatives aren’t new in the library — planned programs and educational offerings that support digital citizenship exist in nearly every library in the nation. But digital literacy is developed not only via programs and classes; learning is supported by informal interactions between library staff and patrons. It’s important not to overlook instruction that occurs on a one-to-one basis. Informal instruction is a concept in education that can be useful in libraries as well. Formal instruction takes place in the classroom, during a scheduled educational program. By contrast, predetermined learning outcomes are not built into informal instruction — from the learner’s point of view, what’s happening isn’t education, but experience: learning by doing. Libraries are most effective at fostering digital literacy when staff take the same care during casual educational encounters as we do in the classroom. If patrons’ worst fears about their lack of knowledge are…