Personalized Learning in the Library

You might wonder how personalized learning works in the library. It's not as easy as a classroom to differentiate or use Universal Design theories. However, the library is the hub of learning in the school. It should be the central focus of many parts of education, and is always linked to the classroom. Therefore, PL is in the library.

You can start by just "searching" for it.

The catalog. Our catalog uses Follett Destiny, which is used in many school systems throughout the world. Students have login abilities, can create lists of favorite books and resources, share those lists, have lists shared with them by other students and teachers, write reviews of books, and more. In other words, they can personalize it! (And you thought the catalog was only for searching...)

The collection. If a collection is truly balanced, there should be something for everyone. Graphic novels, graphic nonfiction, narrative nonfiction, general nonfiction, every genre of fiction imaginable (as appropriate for the school setting, of course)...these help students find something to read that matches their interest AND ability level. In a high school library, we have "high-low" books scattered throughout the collection: books with high interest plots and lower than average reading levels to help English Language Learners and those with reading differences. Why? Because reading is not an innate ability; it is a skill that takes practice for mastery. If a student practices way above their ability level, they will never master it! (You don't start playing professional sports, do you? Nor is your first musical piece on the violin a Bach concerto.  We've all heard the beginner's attempt at "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.") And, of course, the collection is every changing, growing, and being weeded to meet the needs of its patrons.

Technology. The library should be the forefront of technology in the school with a variety of activities allowing students to personalize their projects. Green screens, filming areas, photography, and so on help different types of learners show their knowledge in new and, for them, exciting ways. Introverted students might prefer a more behind-the-scenes approach so non-camera technology choices gives them a chance to shine. (Think animation programs, stop motion animation, and the like.) To make this accessible to all students, house it in the library!

Collaboration. This is, perhaps, one of the key components to personalized learning in the classroom, and the one most often overlooked. By working together, the classroom teacher and the librarian can develop more project choices and activities to meet the needs of students that match interest and ability levels.