Access and Metadata

Last week in class we discussed the issue of access and how it applies above and beyond simply being able to walk into the library or media centre. All people associated with the school community should have access to the library before, during and after school hours, although this may vary depending on the person and situation. Access should also take into consideration on-line learners (in my SD we have a Learn@Home program that allows students to home school but still have the resources and support of "regular"school), as well as students educational abilities and even cultural or lifestyle beliefs.

Communication is key for the TL whether it is with students and parents, clerical staff or other teachers. Open communication and education about what is available in the library will encourage more users and thus learning opportunities. Perhaps access means that the TL goes around to classrooms and gives book talks, or has clear written communication for all levels of learners in the library or maybe access even means limiting students access if an inappropriate issue arises.
With the increase of technology in the school library the issue of access takes on a whole new meaning. With the Internet students today have access to more information then ever before thought possible! But is it quality information? Do students know when they are looking at a reliable resource or not? For that matter do I, as a TL, know how best to direct students when accessing on-line materials? Well not really, no, but I am learning and it leads me into this weeks topic about Metadata!

 (Meta-what???) As for Metadata, I am pretty much lost after the first paragraph:
http://www.itb.hu/fejlesztesek/meta/hgls/core/Background/An_Introduction_to_Metadata.htm
We also discussed evaluating search engines, (crawler-based search engines vs. human directories) and understanding how the two search engines work.
What do I get out of all of this? Besides a whole lot of confusion (haha) I am beginning to understand that TLs must approach the fast-paced world of technology with both open-mindedness and trepidation so that our students are using resources that promote critical thinking (i.e. - NOT copying and pasting from Wikipedia *shudder*) and life long learners. Certainly Wikipedia, Facebook and other such mediums have their value for everyday knowledge or social media, and potentially could be used educationally but the TL must first be educated to ensure it is not just "technology for technology's sake". I think  one of many responsibilities of the TL to teach students how to correctly access and assess academic search engines, particularity for inquiry based learning.
Steep learning curve this week as predicted!