Cal Poly

Research and Information Skills: Library Instruction

Cal Poly's College Librarians partner with faculty to help students acquire discipline-specific research skills as well as lifelong learning skills. Among these skills are the ability to:

• identify their information needs;
• locate, critically evaluate, and synthesize information; and
• apply ethical and legal considerations in using information.

Librarians work with faculty to identify the types of library instruction that will be most effective in their courses, while fostering students' independence and responsibility. Among the instruction options librarians offer are:

In-class instruction and instructional support

Targeting student information needs to help them successfully accomplish course learning objectives, librarians provide:

• One-hour instructional sessions;
• "Embedded" librarian support in a course over the duration of the quarter, whether via Blackboard or in person;
• Customized library web sites aimed at the requirements of the syllabus; and/or
• Assistance in integrating research skills in course assignments.

One-on-one consultations with students and faculty

College Librarians provide individualized instruction and consultation, drawing on their specialized knowledge of information resources in a discipline or cross-disciplinary area.

Online tutorials

Tutorials introduce students to basic concepts and skills in finding and using information, locating physical and online library resources and services available in the physical and online environment.

For more information about the Library's instructional programs, please email Anna K. Gold, University Librarian or email Navjit Brar, Librarian for Assessment and Life Long Learning.

Program Details

Learn more about our Library Instruction program including goals, pedagogical principles, the roles of our partners, and suggestions for more reading.