CoFHE NW AGM: Learner Scenarios 6
Posted on: February 16, 2010
For the CoFHE NW AGM we focussed on assessing learners needs and how libraries can resource their learning styles. Based on scenarios, the attendees discussed the current challenges faced by libraries in meeting evolving students needs and then moved on to discuss how technology could potentially help. Over the next few blog entries I will focus on each scenario and the comments received during the session.
Learner Six: Gemma
Gemma prepares for college by reading at home. She finds it easier and more relaxing than college. She visits the Library regularly to search for the articles she needs online and then prints them out to take home with her. The amount of paper she collects does worry her.
On her drive home she reflects on her day and what she has learnt which she then jots down when she returns home.
Comments
The group working with Gemma felt that there was definitely a need for more user education – particularly to cut down on the amount of paper she was using. I would start asking why this learner is not aware of the current library services. Is there a need her for more appropriate marketing of the library services (Library staff working smarter not harder comes to mind here). There is a need to investigate why Gemma is not aware that she could possibly download resources whilst working at home. Is she aware of the VLE or does she find using it a problem? What about developing online tutorials and audio materials for her to listen to.
My personal thoughts are also that this learner would benefit from recording technology. The library could loan out digital recorders so that Gemma can record her thoughts on the way home so that she doesn’t “lose” any of her reflective work.
