Infinite Learning Reflection: Library as Classroom
Photo by Mikhail Nilov from Pexels.
As a future children’s librarian, one of my biggest goals is to create safe learning spaces for children. This is why I felt the need to develop a mindfulness program for my Innovation Strategy and Roadmap. Teaching middle schoolers skills for their careers as adults is a logical next step to explore, as I want to cover all age groups under youth services.
As “90% of the entire population will be connected to the internet within 10 years” (Park, 2016), it is important to introduce children to STEM learning and incorporate digital skills into their learning experiences. Emerging technologies develop from these sectors rapidly and are integrated into our society at the same pace. The Urban Libraries Council aims to make this a reality for children across the United States by collaborating with schools, government, and businesses (Breding, 2019). Some exciting programs included Gwinnett County Library, Georgia’s Spanish Language STEM program, highlighting the importance of making STEM programs inclusive and accessible to all regardless of language. Locally, San José Public Library hosted Coding Challenge 5K, which utilized expert volunteers (Breeding, 2019).
Adults can teach children “digital intelligence” (Park, 2016) so they can develop skills to help them use technology as it becomes deeply embedded in our way of life. Some skills suggestions are digital safety and digital security, which will teach children to prevent and lessen cyberbullying, maintain privacy from strangers who may try to hack or groom them and limit risks of radicalization.
Libraries are the ultimate spaces for informal learning as we are unrestricted by curriculums. Librarians should take the opportunity to think ahead when brainstorming programs so that the children in the communities they serve are well-prepared for the future.
References:
Breeding, M. (2019). Public Libraries are Teaming Up to Prepare Middle Schoolers for 21st Century Careers.
Park, Y. (2016). 8 digital skills we must teach our children.