Guidelines for Creating Effective Library Assignments

Here are some tips developed by librarians for creating more effective library-related assignments. The information is based on experience we have had with helping students. We hope you will find these guidelines helpful.

Provide a Clear Purpose and Instructions

Make sure your students understand what you want them to accomplish in the assignment. State your purpose and how it relates to the objectives of your course. Test the assignment for clarity by asking a student or librarian to read it and offer feedback. Verify your terminology. Remember: Library resources are constantly changing.

Do your Homework and/or Consult a Librarian

Review your assignment each semester. Be certain the library has the resources needed to complete the assignment. Question whether the assignment is too specific (if students all need the same resources at the same time, it may cause frustration) or too general (students will feel lost and lack direction). Librarians are happy to help you with this process. Feel free to contact your department's Liaison Librarian for assistance.

Be Clear About Your Terminology

Students who are told that they "can't use the Web," often mistakenly believe that this includes Web-based research databases to which the library subscribes (such as Academic Search Complete or the Electronic Journal Center ). It is helpful to explain what you mean by "the Web." For instance, you may want to allow them to use government websites or those listed on the library's Subject Resource Pages , but not personal sites. Provide students with Web evaluation criteria that they can use to tell the difference. Links to materials of this kind can be found in the left-hand side bar.

Foster Critical Analysis

Design assignments that ask students to use the information they find in a meaningful way. Requiring students to analyze, evaluate, or comment on the search strategy they used and the information they find helps integrate information literacy skills into your course and makes students more likely to retain these skills. It also reduces plagiarism!

Prepare Students for Success in the Library

Survey your students' current understanding of the library to see if they might benefit from a librarian-led instruction session. As you know, if you ask "Do you know how to find articles?" or "Can you use the library?" most will answer "yes." Ask them to describe how they have found magazines and journal articles in the past. This should provide a better sense of their library "comfort zone." Provide links to resources on the library's Web site . Let them know librarians can help.

Discuss the Research Process in your Field

Each field has slightly different methods and approaches to the research process, and students need to be acclimated to the research environment of your field. Make certain that your students are aware of key terms and concepts in the disciplines. Make sure they understand the benefits of taking a systematic approach to their research.

These guidelines were adapted by Grasselli Library from guidelines developed by Kent State University.