Scan Archive Vols 17-18 (1998-1999)
Appearing below are annotations to Scan articles arranged separately by each issue from Volumes 17 and 18 (1998-1999), arranged alphabetically by author.
Links to other current Volumes and the Scan Archive:
Vol 28 (2009)
Vol 27 (2008)
Scan Archive covering Vols 25-26 (2006-2007)
Scan Archive covering Vols 23-24 (2004-2005)
Scan Archive covering Vols 21-22 (2002-2003)
Scan Archive covering Vols 19-20 (2000-2001)
Links to individual Issues for Scan Archive Vols 17 and 18 (1998-1999):
Vol 17 No 1 February 1998
Vol 17 No 2 May 1998
Vol 17 No 3 August 1998
Vol 17 No 4 November 1998
Vol 18 No 1 February 1999
Vol 18 No 2 May 1999
Vol 18 No 3 August 1999
Vol 18 No 4 November 1999
Vol 17 No 1 February 1998
BOLTON, Jennifer. 'Flexible timetables - use of the library: a principal's perspective' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 14-16.
A primary Principal advocates flexible timetabling in school libraries to maximise opportunities for cooperative planning, programming and teaching, and information skills. The Principal's vision, and knowledge of the process of change, contributes to effective use of resources.
BRUCE, Christine. 'The experience of information literacy: toward a holistic model' in Scan 17(1), February 1998, 40-45.
Teachers' thinking about the nature of information literacy is challenged in this article, which explores different conceptions, and highlights how they are often at variance with information professionals' definitions. The existing models are mainly behavioural in character, revolving around lists of knowledge, skills and attributes. Others have evolved from the information processing paradigm. The study attempted to answer "What do we want people to learn?" by exploring information literacy as it is experienced. Information literacy is a multi-faceted phenomenon with a unique character. The critical issue for teacher-librarians is the need to identify and understand the different conceptions of information literacy in the school community, and work to develop a more holistic approach to it. The model suggests learning outcomes for information literacy education which are compatible with approaches to learning information literacy suggested in the literature. The experiential model supports curriculum analysis and staff development, suggesting strategies for working with students. Read the full text.
BRUCE, Lorraine. 'Waterwatch: the role of collaborative enquiry in the curriculum' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 34-35.
Students and teachers at Pennant Hills High School use the Internet as a tool for collaborative enquiry. A participant in Streamwatch, the school helps to identify and monitor the impact of human interaction on the local environment.
BUCKLEY, Jill. 'Professional development ideas for district networks' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 4-5.
A range of programs available from Training and Development Directorate may provide opportunities for district committees of teacher-librarians to coordinate improved professional development for colleagues through support network meetings, mentorships and learning partnerships.
FITZGERALD, Lee, and DAWSON, Darelyn. 'Designing a whole school information literacy policy' in Scan17(1) February, 1998, 21-22.
Trinity Grammar School developed a K-12 whole school information literacy policy to provide a blueprint for action, including: vision and mission statements; outcomes-based education; the information skills process; and explicit links between literature and information literacy.
FOLEY, Colleen. 'Supporting teaching and learning via the Internet site reviews' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 35-37.
The Internet site reviews in Scan and on the Network for education web site assist teacher-librarians to locate relevant, practical support for: classroom applications; professional development; collaborative programming; and effective information services for school communities.
HUTTON, Penny, and O'DOWD, Michelle.'Text types for teacher-librarians' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 11-13.
The State Literacy Strategy ensures a clear focus on development of students' literacy skills, through explicit and systematic instruction. A functional view of language, through all key learning areas, examines basic social purposes for talking, reading and writing.
MELOV, Louise. 'Once upon a time there was a librarian...' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 8-9.
Author Nadia Wheatley and editor Robin Morrow discuss the inspiration, and collaborative process, behind the creation of their picture book, The greatest treasure of Charlemagne the king, and the contributions of the illustrator, Deborah Klein.
RASAIAH, Sally. 'A whole-school professional development in information literacy' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 19-21.
Significant initiatives in information literacy at Waitara Primary School have come about as a result of staff professional development in the areas of cooperative classroom strategies; critical thinking skills; student learning styles; and ICT.
SANDERS, Jan. 'Teaching stage one information skills' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 17-19.
The keys to success in teaching information skills to Years K-2 are to: break down each topic into small steps; ensure that there are sufficient relevant resources available; use grouping of students; and develop a K-6 scope and sequence chart.
SMITH, Wendy. 'Why teacher librarians use SCIS products and services?' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 38-39.
SCIS products and services, such as SCISWeb and SCISCD CD-ROM, provide cost-effective and professional centralised, consistent, cataloging for school resources. The time saved allows teacher-librarians to collaborate with staff, and to teach students more efficiently.
WILLIAM, Suzie. 'Big mob books for little fullas: a new and unique Aboriginal literacy kit' in Scan 17(1) February, 1998, 6-7.
A new kit for P-Year 6 schools aims to support and educate teachers about Aboriginal language and protocol by providing material which: celebrates Aboriginality; breaks down stereotypes; emphasises diversity; and has great appeal to young readers.
Vol 17 No 2 May 1998
ASHBY, Jenny. 'Multimedia slide shows: Adventures with my worst best friend' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 22-23.
Using Kid pix studio computer software, students at Epsom Primary in Victoria integrated literacy and technology through the novels of Max Dann. Electronic "talking postcards" were illustrated with graphics from The World Book multimedia encyclopedia.
BEVERIDGE, Sue. ' National Professional Development Program: Literacy for learning Years 5-8 CD-ROM' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 4.
The Language and Literacy in the Middle Years of Schooling Coordinating Committee of the National Professional Development Program has supplied to schools an interactive, motivating "expert" resource for use by individuals and small groups of teachers.
CARLIN, Carol. 'Murder under the microscope at Menai Primary School' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 26-28.
An interactive environmental program, created by Open Training and Education Network (OTEN) combines several information media (the Internet, facsimile, teaching kits, CD-ROMs) to integrate information skills and technology. This year's theme is: Mystery on the marsh.
CHAUNCY, Katharine & CONNERY, Laurie.'Technology in a small school' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 19-21.
Introducing ICT at Sutton Forest Primary, a three-teacher school near Moss Vale, put teachers and students on a steep learning curve. The library, OASIS Adlib, CD-ROMs and the Internet were incorporated into daily classroom routines.
CORBETT, Elizabeth & MEGAHEY, Rod.'Developing a whole-school information skills plan in a small school' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 8-11.
Bardwell Park Infants, a three-teacher school in Sydney, is collaboratively programming information skills into teaching and learning programs across the key learning areas. The teacher-librarian was the catalyst for change and the teaching Principal a facilitator.
DOYLE, Jennie. 'Multicultural Programs Unit: strengthening communication' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 46.
To improve communication within school communities, a variety of translated policies and documents are available for downloading from Network for Education, the NSW DET web site. Topics include: child protection; counselling and interpreter services; and work experience.
GRANT, Vivien. 'Information skills and their impact on learning: a New Zealand study' in Scan 17(2), May 1998, 50-54.
The introduction of information skills into national curriculums around the world has signalled a change in direction for education: from teacher-centred learning to student-centred learning; and from learning centred on transmission of information to learning centred on effectively using information. This research investigated the impact of an integrated information skills approach on levels of achievement. Specifically, it sought to compare the learning outcomes of two classes: one using an information skills approach; the other a teacher-centred approach. Analysis of qualitative data shows that the development of information handling skills considerably helped students in their process of identifying and manipulating information, and structuring it in a meaningful way for presentation, and building confidence with their learning. The study also identifies a range of learning dilemmas that students face in working with information; knowledge of these dilemmas provides an important starting point for the integration of information skills into units of work. Read the full text
HAWKES, Jackie C. 'Talk, share, learn' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 12-14.
Incorporating a Unitised Vertical Curriculum (UVC) alerted the teacher-librarian at St Clair High School as to the value of communication techniques. Different emphases are required for: staff; students; school executive; and parents. The common attribute is "talk".
HAY, Lyn. 'An interview with Jamie McKenzie' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 5-7.
Prior to a lecture tour of Australia, Jamie McKenzie discusses his electronic educational technology journal and web site, From now on, and personal philosophies on: networked information; acceptable use policies (AUPs); copyright; resource management; and the 'post-modem school'.
HEUZENROEDER, Angela. 'Multimedia slide shows II: researching the human body' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 24-25.
Students at Angaston Primary in South Australia used Kid pix studio computer software to present information about human anatomy. Teacher-librarian collaborated with classroom teacher to provide pro formas and other scaffolds, ensuring that participants achieved success.
KALLENBERGER, Niki & LITTLE, Jane.'The State Library at your fingertips' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 47-48.
Infocus: linking people and information is a service for senior school students. Copyright cleared resources on novelists, Australian history (including heritage items from the Mitchell Library), the environment and legal studies are areas of strength.
ROCHE, Maggie. 'English K-6: outcomes, indicators and information skills' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 15-18.
The full range of information skills are incorporated into 1998 English K-6 syllabus outcomes. Researching, and using a variety of information sources, remain integral to teaching English. Indicators, grouped under information skills' headings, are supplied on photocopiable grids.
'SCISWeb and SCISCD hints' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 41-42.
Six NSW DET teacher-librarians from a range of schools discuss management issues regarding two new SCIS cataloguing products. Techniques for efficient downloading into OASIS, and for reprogramming ASP barcode readers to read ISBN codes are also suggested.
TODD, Ross J. 'Moving forward: teacher-librarians creating the new millennium' in Scan 17(2) May, 1998, 43-46.
Understanding is knowledge integrated with a world view and a personal perspective. Advances in technology has implications for the pro-active teacher-librarian in regard to: the development of critical literacies; issues of copyright; strategic leadership; and knowledge management.
Vol 17 No 3 August 1998
'Aboriginal Studies initiatives for 1998' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 5.
Aboriginal Studies officers have collaborated with SCIS cataloguing staff, ensuring that subject headings within school libraries are culturally appropriate and sensitive to Aboriginal Australia past and present. Other 1998 projects include: the HSC On-line node; teaching resources; and an exhibition.
BRUCE, Lorraine & BELLING, Owen.'Collaboration in action at Pennant Hills High School: students review the CBC shortlisted books' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 10-13.
Using professional resource reviews from Scan as models, Year 7 students reviewed Children's Book Council shortlisted books, culminating an English unit in which the teacher-librarian and a classroom teacher guided students in the deconstruction and reconstruction of text.
CAMPBELL, Tom. 'Building quality learning and teaching into the next century' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 18-19.
A series of statements on best practice in teaching and learning, distilled from Quality assurance school review framework documents and the discussion paper on Schools as learning communities, has implications for teacher-librarians when planning units of work with classroom teachers.
CRAFT, Jenny. 'Information literacy outcomes and reporting to parents' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 39-41.
Outcomes based education is integral to teaching and learning at Barnier Public School. A database, accessible via laptop computers, developed by the teacher-librarian and other staff expedites: production of pro formas for effective programming; assessing of students; and reporting to parents.
FOSTER, Jenny & MCLEAN, Ian. 'Read-in with David Legge at Winmalee: a celebration of books and reading' and 'Meet David Legge' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 6-9.
Winmalee Primary played host to a visiting illustrator at their annual Read-in day, during which student groups rotated through a tabloid of visual arts activities inspired by various techniques from children's picture books. Accompanied by an interview with David Legge (of Bamboozled fame).
GOULD, Peter. 'Mathematics K-6: the outcomes addendum' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 4.
The new Outcomes and indicators addendum for Mathematics K-6 impacts on schools' scope and sequence charts and whole-school planning. The article advocates collaborative programming, knowledge of students' prior achievements and support from the teacher-librarian. A matrix suggests key programming questions.
HUTTON, Penny & O'DOWD, Michelle.'Levelling texts: implications for teacher-librarians' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 14-17.
'Matching students to texts' (levelling) establishes students' independent reading levels. Other aspects of a balanced program include USSR (DEAR), and shared, modelled and guided reading. Roles of the reader and the library are discussed. A pro forma assists with clarifying tasks.
LINDGREN, Margot. 'OASIS Acquisitions and the new SCIS products' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 46-47.
To use SCISWeb and SCISCD cataloguing products successfully with the Acquisitions module of OASIS, several precautions should be followed: establishing of order numbers; using brief catalogue details in Wish list; and not mixing Acquisitions material with other resources during downloads.
NICOL, Maureen. 'Effective communication and the school library' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 44-45.
By exploring aspects of desktop publishing design and layout, and learning by imitation, the Presenting stage of information skills can be used by teacher-librarians to improve communication (eg via library newsletters) and thereby model the process for colleagues and students.
OBERG, Dianne & GIBSON, Susan.'Teachers' concerns about the Internet: implications for teacher-librarians' in Scan17(3), August 1998, 48-53.
Providing access to the Internet is just the beginning. Using the Internet is a choice for teachers. If using the Internet is perceived to be a new, demanding commitment with uncertain outcomes, many teachers will avoid it. If Internet use is understood to make ongoing teaching practices better or more efficient, and involves processes such as collaborative planning that are already a part of the school's culture, then Internet use will be perceived to be less costly and risky. Teacher-librarians who are knowledgeable about the Internet, about professional development, and about the curriculum, can play an important role in addressing teachers' concerns about Internet use. Teacher-librarians can be supportive by searching out and sharing relevant Web sites. Effective Internet use can change teachers' attitudes towards the computer as an instructional tool, encouraging them to restructure their classes and rethink approaches to teaching, but it requires time and ongoing training and support.
'Online interactive discussion board for teacher-librarians' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 47-48.
Using SCISWeb and SCISCD in school libraries, on the DET Network for education Web site features Your say!, a moderated discussion board, Frequently Asked Questions and Resources. Two teacher-librarians discuss best practice regarding SCIS, OASIS word and OASIS Acquisitions. New URL: http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/schoollibraries/
SANDERS, Jan. 'Teaching Stage Two and Three information skills' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 23-27.
Extending a previous article from Scan 17(1), ideas for teaching information skills to Years 3-6 are discussed. Unit outlines and practical activities include: interviewing folklore characters; animal crossword puzzles; general knowledge board games; and mapping travel routes to Darling Harbour.
SCHEFFERS, Jenny. 'Upgrade your qualifications: taking up the challenge of post graduate study' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 20-22.
A teacher-librarian, recently graduated from a Master of Education (Teacher Librarianship) course at Charles Sturt University, discusses the benefits and challenges of post graduate studies, and how theory was put into practice at Maryong Heights and Merrylands East Public Schools.
SMITH, Birgit. 'One Internet access point: making it work for your students' in Scan 17(3) August, 1998, 42-43.
Effective use of a single Internet access point is emphasised in practical examples of its use at Mudgee High School. Whole-school commitment to collaborative planning across KLAs, flexible timetabling, and cataloguing of recommended web sites on OASIS are advocated.
Vol 17 No 4 November 1998
BARBER, Andrew. 'Managing a specialist collection: Newtown High School of the Performing Arts' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 37-39.
The specialist nature of this school library in Sydney's inner suburbs highlights similarities and differences which occur when responding to a unique user group. Considerations will influence: collection management; teaching program support; accessioning of journals and donated ephemera; and coordinating volunteer staff.
BRUCE, Lorraine. 'Managing change through training and development' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 41-43.
At Pennant Hills High School, the teacher-librarian works with the Training and Development Committee, coordinating staff professional development in information technology. Small groups support each others' learning on site, as part of the school plan, maximising returns in regard to budget and time.
BYRNE, Kay. 'Achieving literacy outcomes through cooperative learning groups' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 19-21.
An Assistant Principal describes how cooperative student learning is used as a teaching and management strategy at Caringbah and Punchbowl Public Schools. A whole-school, integrated approach can improve opportunities for effective talking and listening through collaborative planning with the teacher-librarian.
CARR, Jane. 'For a rapping good time...' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 9-11.
Online book raps, conducted by email, integrate literacy with ICT. The Bilby book rap featured the Rob Atherton book An apology to bilbies: (with good grace), supported by a Web site, CD-ROM teaching kit on conservation and guest experts.
CHAPMAN, Wendy. 'Literacy through book raps for Years 1-2' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 12-15.
At Wollondilly Public School, infants classes participate in oz-TeacherNet's book raps and travel buddies projects via the Internet and email, introducing students to real world literacy, and authentic learning experiences such as collaborative problem solving. Management and teaching strategies are suggested.
CHAUNCY, Katharine. 'Libby Gleeson visits the Southern Highlands' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 6-8.
A collaborative effort by teacher-librarians, from small isolated country schools, enabled a pre Book Week visit to be made by children's author Libby Gleeson. Management issues, implications for whole-school planning, English K-6 teaching ideas, and student learning outcomes are discussed.
DOWLING, Anne. 'Videorecordings and SCIS' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 43.
SCIS records for videorecordings follow Anglo-American cataloguing rules (1988 revision). Titles are taken from the title screen of the resource. For many television series on video, SCIS assigns separate Dewey book numbers and catalogue records for whole series and individual episodes.
DUFFY, Simon. 'Zoos' Web site is a big hit for schools' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 4-5.
Welcome to Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales is the web site for Taronga Zoo and Western Plains Zoo. It includes: online resources; excursion activities; electronic postcards; and an interactive Chat room, in which the zoos' education officers answer questions.
GORDON, Carol A. 'Students as authentic researchers: a new prescription for the high school research assignment' in Scan17(4), November 1998, 45-49.
The research assignment is universally accepted as a benign activity that allows teachers to attend to the 'real curriculum' while students get better at 'writing a research paper'. Students express dislike for research when, in fact, they dislike doing reports. Bogus research assignments lead students to perceive library time as an extension of teacher and textbook dependent classroom paradigms. Influenced by authoritarian models of learning, students value what teachers say rather than what they discover for themselves. Teachers reticent to take time for 'research' can discredit library based research as a teaching strategy. Student recognition of the distinction between reporting and researching is a key to success and students should be challenged to become authentic researchers. Structure for students should include: support materials; help when they need it; and sufficient time. Collaboration of students-as-researchers and teachers-as-researchers is a powerful paradigm for raising instructional quality to a new level of sophistication.
JONES, Jill. 'Isolated no longer: Internet solutions at Moree Technology High School' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 33-35.
A country high school has reduced community feelings of remoteness through integrated information literacy programs emphasising: email; the Internet; and information skills. The success of brainstorming keywords as a strategy is highlighted by example: researching barbeque designs using Internet search engines.
MOODIE, Toni & GATES, Marlene.'Literacy through literature: a collaborative unit for Year 7' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 16-18.
Reluctant readers at Walcha Central School are targeted by R.A.G.E. (Read and get enjoyment!), a collaborative unit in which the teacher-librarian and English teacher encourage students to: read regularly and widely; respond appropriately; improve communication skills; and use information skills in context.
PICKWORTH, Margo. 'Book Bunker: a library with a difference' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 39-40.
A state of the art, automated library at The New Children's Hospital, Westmead, successfully caters for a unique clientele. Volunteer teacher-librarians and clerical staff circulate resources on OASIS. Laptop enquiry terminals, wheelchair access, CD-ROMs, and a storytelling couch are features.
VAILE, Ian. 'Learning online with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation' in Scan 17(4) November, 1998, 36.
Learn online, Internet gateway for ABC online, assists educators and students to navigate this extensive web site. Popular television and radio programs are represented, as well as web specific educational projects for schools. The future of electronic media promises more interactivity and collaboration.
Vol 18 No 1 February 1999
CLEARY, Anne & CHAPMAN, Wendy.'Linking the learning community, or, how to get 200 stakeholders to hear 'The Message'?' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 40-42.
The executive committee of Queanbeyan District's LEN (Library Education Network), working with the District Training and Development Coordinator, District Superintendent, and a local Principal, planned and hosted Information technology: linking the learning community. Teams of teachers, teacher-librarians, principals and parents attended.
COOK, Jan. 'Maths on the Net' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 24.
In the Broken Hill District, a program was initiated which integrates mathematics, problem solving and ICT. Email and the Internet provide communication between virtual teams of students and schools, enhancing: literacy skills in mathematics; cooperation; and training and development of teachers.
GOUDGE, Judith. 'Write Around Australia: a purpose for writing' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 6-9.
Dundas Primary School incorporates the NESTLÉ Write Around Australia competition into its whole school plan. Addressing many aspects of the State Literacy Strategy, this creative writing program provides opportunities for collaborative teaching, with students also able to attend workshops with children's authors.
HARDAGE, Paul. 'The language of other subjects' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 10-13.
The social view of language has led to a paradigm shift about language; 'the language of different subject disciplines' replaces 'literacy across the curriculum'. Today's teachers and teacher-librarians use the explicit instructional practices associated with text types, and emphasise social purpose.
KHAN, Phyllis, McKEOUGH, Rod & DEBENHAM, Philip.'Muswellbrook South Public School: linking technology to literacy' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 37-39.
A teacher-librarian and two teachers collaborated, over several years, on a Year 2-6 project to incorporate literacy with technology at their school. A series of interactive, curriculum-linked activities involved: the computer program, HyperStudio; CD-ROM publishing; and reporting to parents via the Internet.
LEWIS, Estelle. 'Science instruction and information literacy: information is power' in Scan 18(1), February 1999, 49-53.
A key challenge for today is managing information overload. In a world where information is the key to personal power, the ability to access, evaluate and use information effectively from a variety of sources is vital. A new class of leaders is emerging: the information literate. This research focused on the students' knowledge of the information process model, and their ability to use the model in a subject-specific context. Many students are poor at following written instructions, choosing to ignore them if there is not a ready source of help at the time it is required. Students motivated by achievement more readily seek assistance. Providing a scaffold does not mean all students will use it. A detailed, process orientated, student information skills program increases students' retention of information process stages. Having the information steps embedded in the science task improved the quality of the product when the steps were used.
MAHER, Cynthia, GRAHAM, Peter & LANNEN, Brian.'Mathematics + collaboration + technology = success' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 20-23.
Gifted and talented mathematics students from small, isolated schools were involved in the MEGA (Mathematics Enrichment Group Albury) Project. Through email and the Internet, teachers provided activities to a virtual class, culminating in a Maths Activity Day hosted by Holbrook Public School.
MARSHALL, Sue. 'Library stocktake: managing the ongoing process' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 47-48.
Stocktake of library resources is a mandatory, ongoing procedure. The process can be made less arduous, especially in small schools, through: time management; negotiation with the Principal; dividing the collection into sections in OASIS library; and training volunteer helpers from the community.
PLUMMER, Frances.'Rich assessment tasks: exploring quality assessment for the School Certificate' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 14-20.
This first of four articles explores elements of authentic assessment, and the teacher-librarian's role in the context of teaching and learning, particularly regarding the School Certificate. Assessment tasks are 'rich' if they provide assessment information across a range of course outcomes.
STEIGLER-PETERS, Susi. 'Languages and literacy' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 4-5.
In languages classrooms, students compare and contrast languages through a range of skills. A series of quality language-specific booklets have been developed to complement the document Teaching literacy in languages in Year 7. Selected online content is available on Network for education.
TODD, Ross J. 'Reading the future: knowledge management 1. Background and key concepts' in Scan 18(1) February, 1999, 42-46.
Knowledge equals power, so share it rather than hoard it; this notion underpins the broad, holistic and emerging field of knowledge management. Classroom teachers represent a vast knowledge and competence network, which has implications for pro-active teacher-librarians and other information professionals.
Vol 18 No 2 May 1999
BRANDTMAN, Elizabeth & SIMPSON, Kay.'Collaborating across the curriculum: teacher-librarians and classroom teachers' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 13-17.
At Bexley Public School, a collaborative team design and teach integrated units using student centred classroom and library experiences, meeting and assessing clearly stated learning outcomes in: science & technology; HSIE; and English. A Stage 3 Natural disasters unit is included.
BYRNE, Jenny, STAPLEY, Margaret & PLUMMER, Frances. 'Collaborative assessment planning: exploring rich assessment for the School Certificate' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 18-22.
Part II of four articles on authentic assessment, this discusses the teacher-librarian as a member of the professional learning team at Pendle Hill High School. Well designed, relevant tasks allow learners to see clear connections between objectives, activities and assessment methods.
ELLIS, Michelle. 'Currents: School libraries: empowering learning' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 3.
This Internet site http://www.det.nsw.edu.au/schoollibraries aims to support NSW Department of Education and Training teacher-librarians. Features include: District networks news; Discussion; Teaching and learning; a Virtual conference; highlights from Scan journal; and access (for selected applicants) to a School based training course.
FERGUSON-SMITH, Gary. 'Using the Internet' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 5.
Using the Internet, a publication of the NSW Department of Education and Training, contains information and self paced activities to promote confident use of the Internet, including navigation, searching and email, by: teachers; teacher-librarians; and school administrative and support staff.
FIELD, Sue. 'Human society and its environment: Kindergarten to Year 6 syllabus' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 4-5.
Twenty HSIE consultants are assisting schools to implement the new syllabus. A Board of Studies support package is complemented by: heritage units (Stages 1-3); three Curriculum Support Directorate units (Japan, Aboriginal Australia and Federation); and Discovering democracy resources (Years 4-6).
KIRKHAM, Barbara. 'Information networking: State Library of New South Wales' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 44-45.
The State Library's Internet home page assists teacher-librarians to build information networks. Services include: interlibrary loans for isolated schools; two online newspaper indexes (Infoquick and Infokoori); Picman: an index to pictures & manuscripts; and the upcoming web version of Infocus.
McLEAN, Ian. 'Sailing home to a Future Eden: an interview with Colin Thompson' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 6-8.
The work of this popular and prolific author/illustrator, web designer and book rap participant appeals to a wide audience. Some books are collaborations with other illustrators (ie Sailing home with Matt Ottley). Most feedback from readers now comes via email.
NEWMAN, Andrew. 'Technology and the secondary school teacher-librarian: a principal's perspective' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 36-38.
The development of a new school, Tumbi Umbi High, has clarified for its Principal the roles of the teacher-librarian. Issues include: collaboration; budget considerations; collection development; easy, equitable access to the latest technology; and acceptable use and validity of online data.
REYNOLDS, Jan. 'Towards a learning community at Hassall Grove: the role of the teacher-librarian' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 9-12.
The staff at a rapidly growing primary school in Sydney's west has developed into a cohesive, collaborative team, with parent participation an added strength. The transformation required development of: personal mastery; mental models; shared vision; team learning; and systems thinking.
RICH, Warren. 'Enhancing the participation and achievement of girls in school science' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 46-50.
Research into girls and science in schools shows that many fail to fulfil their potential. The State Literacy Strategy (1997) implies opportunities for teacher-librarians to encourage female students to become familiar and competent with the full range of factual text types. Using OASIS Library statistics at two Wollongong public schools, data pertaining to borrowing habits Years 2-6 was tabulated. The results indicated gender related trends. Strategies to increase non fiction borrowing by girls might include: explicit discussion about the advantages of reading widely; highlighting instances of subtle sexism; encouraging vocalisation of student's subconscious decisions about text selection; extending these ideas into the broader school community (including parents); and vetting library resources for evidence of sexist language. Without this type of information being gathered and studied, the agenda of the 'hidden curriculum' continues unabated and unchecked. Teacher-librarians can facilitate change; they are not powerless to alter "the big picture of education".
SMITH, Birgit & KEMPTON, Bill.'Integrating the Internet at Mudgee High School' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 34-36.
Student learning outcomes are enhanced through the integration of technology. Resource based units in legal studies and agriculture at Mudgee incorporate approved web sites. In careers education, a structured worksheet was developed to support students learning to navigate the Internet.
TODD, Ross J. 'Reading the future: knowledge management 2. Processes and practices' in Scan 18(2) May, 1999, 39-43.
Knowledge management opens up opportunities for extending and enriching the information resource base of a school. Implementation depends upon an accepting environment and culture. Ideas for schools to adopt include: resources noticeboard; online discussion; best practices database; and staff Yellow pages.
Vol 18 No 3 August 1999
BRANDTMAN, Elizabeth & SIMPSON, Kay.'Technology across the curriculum: teacher-librarians and classroom teachers' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 13-15.
At Bexley Public School , teacher-librarian and class teachers integrate ICT (eg CD-ROMs; selected Internet sites; data/video projector) during planning and teaching of a Stage 3 unit about space and the solar system. The whole school plan supports students' achievement of outcomes.
MARSH, Lynne. 'Networking the Internet at Chester Hill High School' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 31-33.
A pilot program enabled Internet access across a whole school, resulting in successful innovations: teacher-librarians, staff and students collaborate to create online curriculum resources; other schools join the network via a web ring; and students contribute to an online magazine, KidsNews.
MORRISON, Anne-Marie.'Student Internet use and web page creation: Elanora Heights Primary School Library home page. two years on' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 27-30.
Student authoring of Web pages has assisted Elanora Heights Primary School to focus on: the State Literacy Strategy; explicit and systematic teaching; and outcomes based learning. An integrated unit, Arctic/Antarctic, is an example of successful collaboration between teacher-librarian and class teachers.
NEWTON, Garth & HOUSTON, Wayne.'Y2K and the networking of schools' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 4.
Information Technology Bureau (ITB) is managing the rectification of the statewide computer systems (eg OASIS) effected by the Year 2000 date problem, or 'Millennium bug'. A related project is the networking of Departmental schools for multi computer Internet access via ISDN cabling.
PHILLIPS, Margaret. 'Developing student self assessment: collaboration, scaffolds and information skills' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 5-8.
Students at Penshurst Public School are encouraged to take responsibility for learning via embedded self assessment activities. A collaboratively taught, integrated unit, Light, reflection and Monet, addressed student outcomes for: oracy; interpreting visual aspects of text; using ICT; and relating/writing biographical recounts.
PLUMMER, Frances & MAXWELL, Elizabeth.'Exploring quality assessment: the research design process' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 9-12.
This third installment on rich assessment focuses on a Stages 4-5 geography unit, Urbangrowth. Structured learning opportunities contain explicit information about task design and assessment criteria, linked to syllabus outcomes. Activities have a graded degree of difficulty, allowing students to determine commitment and potential for achievement.
SMITH, Anne. 'Developing curriculum pages for the school library intranet: a process based approach' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 37-40.
Melville High School has developed a school library intranet, a feature of which is the series of "clickable" online worksheets which act as: a support for students researching on the Internet; and a web site collection management strategy for the teacher-librarian.
TODD, Ross J. 'Reading the future: knowledge management 3. Ideas, technologies and resources' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 34-37.
Building on two earlier papers, this article synthesises some best practice principles of knowledge management. Teacher-librarians and schools need to consider the available technologies and resources to plan for the future. The school intranet is emerging as an effective knowledge sharing tool.
TODD, Ross J. & O'CONNELL, Judith.'Teachers as learners: transformational leadership and autonomous learning in an electronic age' in Scan 18(3) August, 1999, 41-47.
A professional development program for secondary teachers was constructed at Bethlehem College in Sydney within an action research framework. The building of new commitment to a very new competency can be a fragile process because change redefines proficiency. Valuing and integrating change is the essence of transformational leadership. Teachers at the school prioritised a range of skills to support their developing confidence and competence in a technology classroom. A rationale was developed to support teachers in changing their use of technology in the classroom by fostering opportunities to critically evaluate personal technology competencies and skills. Five inservice sessions were designed and presented: Office and email interfaces; introduction to the World Wide Web; exploring cross faculty mathematics integration; managing a networked classroom; and effective teaching in a specialised learning centre. Evaluation analysis and personal interviews with participants identified that staff had benefited and were beginning to apply new learning to classroom practice.
Vol 18 No 4 November 1999
BRITTON, Sue. 'Heaven sent information event, or, Why the new HSIE documents are heaven sent for teacher-librarians' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 15-17.
Human Society and Its Environment K-6 syllabus (1998) supports opportunities to: plan and teach HSIE collaboratively; match resources to teaching and learning programs; network beyond the school; and support students and teachers with efficient use of information technology, encouraging lifelong learning.
CARROZZI, Jo & WATERS, Janeane.'Awards-99 book rap: a perspective from Knox Grammar School' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 22.
Participants in a book rap on the 1999 Children's Book Council Older Readers' shortlist (see FitzGerald article), 21 Year 10 English students were challenged to re-examine ideas about literature, personal biases and prejudices while reading and responding to emailed discussion from nine other schools.
DOWLING, Anne & SCHAUDER, Cherryl.'New format for SCIS subject headings' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 46-48.
SCISsubjectheadings(4th edition) is the most comprehensive list of curriculum based subject headings for Australasian school libraries. Reflecting current international indexing practices, main changes are: additional headings; updated terminology, and expanded instructions. A major area of revision is the headings for Aboriginal peoples.
FITZGERALD, Lee. 'A book rap for secondary students: 1999 Children's Book Council Older Readers' shortlist' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 18-22.
Trinity Grammar, Knox Grammar and eight other secondary schools participated in awards-99 and judging-99, book raps which coincided with the CBCA awards. Learning outcomes for Trinity students included: reading the shortlisted books; using email and other technologies to discuss young adult fiction; and evaluating literature.
GONZALVEZ, Daphne & NISBET, Jennifer.'A classroom without walls: acquiring information literacy skills through a Web competition' and 'Collaboration, teacher-librarians and distance education' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 35-37.
A "virtual team" of students from Sydney Secondary Distance Education Centre achieved success in the Australian Schools Web Challenge, creating an Internet site about bushfire prevention. Collaboration between teacher advisers, students and teacher-librarian was strengthened via email and teleconferences.
McLELLAN, Anne. 'Researching on the Internet: HTML worksheets for students' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 38-40.
At Willawarrin Public School, the teacher-librarian and classroom teachers have been producing curriculum relevant, "clickable" worksheets to support student learning. These activity sheets, created with hypertext markup language (HTML), are accessed via the Internet browser program of schools' computers.
MOORE, Penny & POULOPOULOS, Noeline.'Butterflies and elephants in the classroom: teachers researching information literacy' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 49-53.
In the school under study, information literacy had an understated p rofile. Information technology and library developments were underway, but there were technological teething problems and no qualified librarians to assist teachers. Inservice workshops and mentorships aimed to increase teachers' information literacy (and action research) skills and knowledge. The project promoted the value of educational theory and familiarity with relevant educational literature. Four boys in the study, aged 8-10, from three different classrooms and teaching programs, were reading several levels below chronological age. Results demonstrated that the students not only transferred newly gained skills to their classrooms, but also exercised them voluntarily in the home and library. Throughout the project, there was more communication between classroom and reading specialist teachers, which increased opportunities for coordination of effort. Teachers learned more about the techniques each was using to help targeted students and could apply them to the whole class.
'National Literacy Week 1999' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 4.
At an inaugural, annual event to focus on literacy learning and teaching, fifteen outstanding NSW primary schools were recognised for exceptional literacy programs. Based on a 'whole school' approach to literacy, the underpinning belief is that students are capable of high literacy achievement.
PLUMMER, Frances.'Exploring quality assessment. Taking the learning further: student learning logs' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 11-15.
Embedding student choice and control, in real life contexts, supports students when completing resource based learning tasks. Student learning logbooks can make visible the learning process and validate what learning has occurred. This is the fourth part of a series on rich assessment.
SCHEFFERS, Jenny. 'Integrating an illustrator study: Kim Gamble and Di Wu visit Merrylands East Public School' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 5-10.
Special events and collaborative units are integral to the K-6 literacy plan at this school. Evidence of high achievement of English outcomes, social skills and attitudes was gathered via evaluation sheets and oral comments from students, staff, parents and visiting illustrators.
SMITH, Birgit. 'The library plan at Mudgee High School' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 40-42.
From the annual school management plan, a library plan is designed to reflect Departmental goals and support teaching and learning. A school library plan: anticipates staff development needs, technology and other resources; and suggests roles for teacher-librarians to be involved in the school plan.
TODD, Ross J. 'Reading the future: knowledge management 4. Towards a community of learning' in Scan 18(4) November, 1999, 43-46.
There is a shifting of attention from actual information environments in schools to possible information environments. Three keys for developing successful knowledge sharing are: visibility; infrastructure; and culture. Knowing who knows what in a school is central to making knowledge visible.
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