The Fortuitous Teacher: A Guide to Successful One-Shot Library Instruction

The Fortuitous Teacher: A Guide to Successful One-Shot Library Instruction discusses how librarians have become accidental teachers in the academic university setting. It covers how (if at all) librarians are prepared by MILS programs to teach, compares typical characteristics of teachers versus librarians, and presents tactics on how to learn effective teaching skills on the job. In addition, readers will learn about the history of library instruction, the different types of library instruction, and the dynamics of one-shot library instruction, classroom culture, faculty buy-in, and collaboration.

Examines how MILS programs prepare librarians to teachCompares the typical characteristics of effective teachers and librariansOffers advice for new academic librarians who take on the role of classroom teacherExplores future trends in library instruction and how to apply this to one-shot instruction sessions

1. The Academic Librarian as ‘Accidental Teacher’

Introduction Traditional and changing roles of the academic librarian How do Library Science programs prepare librarians to teach? Gaining practical teaching experience Characteristics of teachers versus librarians The Teacher Librarian Conclusion

2. Types of Library Instruction

Introduction The history of library instruction Types of library instruction Academic library instruction today One-Shot library instruction- How is it unique? Conclusion

3. Gaining Faculty Buy-in

Introduction The history of faculty/librarian collaboration The importance of faculty collaboration Winning strategies for gaining faculty buy-in Planning instruction sessions with faculty Conclusion

4. Assessing Classroom Dynamics

Introduction Preparing for one-shot instruction sessions Penetrating the academic classroom culture Show-time: Setting the tone Strategies for engaging student interest Partnering with faculty during instruction sessions Developing classroom management skills Conclusion

5. Practical Tips for Successful One-shot Instruction

Introduction Advice from other academic librarians Creating successful one-shot instruction sessions Assessment: building on success What’s next? The future of effective library instruction Conclusion