Transcript Scheduling: A Question of Access

Scheduling: A Question
of Access
Fixed, Flexible, or Modified
by
Howard Jones
In order to allow the library to
meet the current needs of its
students, we must
“distinguish between
information and learning,
and promote libraries as
instruments of learning rather
than as centers of
Information.”
Hartzell, 2002
Question Of The Day
Fixed, Flexible, Modified
which one works best for
my library?
What is Fixed Scheduling?
 Classes to meet in the library media
center on a regular basis, usually once
a week or once a scheduling cycle.
 Classes come into the library for a
regular fixed period.
Advantages
 students visit the library
on a regular basis
 students taught
information skills
Disadvantages
•Librarian is used to supervise
students during teacher prep time.
•Library isn’t always available.
•Skills taught have no correlation to
classroom skill taught.
What is Flexible
Scheduling?
 the library facility and its resources
(including the Library Media Specialist)
are available to students and teachers
on an “at need” basis. There are no
limitations on the length of the visit or
the frequency of visits. Students and
classes come as often and as long as
necessary.
Advantages
 Students can visit the library individually or in
groups to conduct research for a project or
answer a question which arises in class
 Allows individual students and small groups
access to browse, to read, or to do research
at all times during the instructional day.
 Collaboration between teacher and library
media
Disadvantages
 Students may never go to library.
 Can be more demanding on media
specialist's time.
 Additional planning time needed.
What is a Modified Library
Schedule?
A compromise between fixed and flexible
whereby classes go to library on weekly
basis yet there are times when students
go to the library on their own.
Advantages
 Can offer flexible scheduling and fixed
scheduling.
 Younger students can use fixed schedule
while the older students benefit from
flexible schedule.
Disadvantages
 Can be hectic and confusing to
students.
 Difficult on media specialist.
 Attempts to meet the needs of teachers
and students are on a limited basis.
ALA Position on Library
Scheduling
 The library media program requires
flexible and equitable access to
information, ideas, and resources for
learning.”
 “In a student-centered school library
media program, learning needs take
precedence over class schedules…”
(Information Power 1998)
Activity
Now that you have more information on fixed, flexible,
modified schedule it is time to answer the question of the
day.
Gather together with your grade level:
 Discuss the question of day.
 Chart the advantages and disadvantages to each
schedule as it relate to your grade.
 Each group will share result with the whole group.
Evaluation
Please
complete the
evaluation
form before
you leave.
Let’s Have a Great Year!