Russ EDM 530 Blog

 I have learned a lot so far! I was able to attend the Alabama School Library Association Conference, where I learned a lot about school libraries. My favorite seminar was how to set up a library, which was obviously important to me. School libraries, I have learned, are not just about providing books to students. It is all about fostering literacy and creating a safe space for students to learn. Libraries should not all be about books, but also should incorporate technology as well, such as e-books, educational websites, and digital resources. In addition, it is important for libraries to to provide access for students learning other skills, like having 3D printers and computer access. The school library is a wonderful place to foster a lifelong love of learning.  I have also learned a lot about technology, as well. I learned how technology can foster learning, such as the Alabama Virtual Library. It has a lot of great virtual tools to foster learning, such as Britannica Scho...

 Hi, everyone! I need to pick a specific learning goal for my challenge, and I have decided to learn more about makerspaces. Makerspaces are a place for students to coming together to learn through hands-on activities. Kids have access to technologies, such as 3D printers and sewing machines to create. This is especially important for school libraries, since the makerspace can be customized to a specific lesson or unit, especially in STEM. For example, if the students are learning about electricity, they can come into the makerspace and utilize the provided resources to not only conduct research, but make batteries. My goal is to be able to boost student comprehension of the lesson by utilizing the makerspace. Some resources I plan to use: articles about makerspaces (ex: https://www.makerspaces.com/what-is-a-makerspace/), videos of successful makerspaces (ex:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sbj_FtEAEcc) , and testimonials from librarians (ex:https://groverscornerofthelibrary.com/202...

 Hi, everyone! Welcome to my blog. I will update as necessary throughout the semester. I will be responding to questions and writing my thoughts on EDM 530 and librarians in general! I hope you enjoy!