Most programs have assignments and learning activities in their required courses that involve library and information use. These assignments are moments for the exercise and learning of information literacy. These moments are not equal though in terms of instruction that may be needed whether from the course instructor or a librarian. But we cannot determine the need until we identify the moment.
These documents are available for most programs and can be helpful in finding the IL moments and understanding their particular natures. We can also draw from our experiences in our reference work, previous instruction for the program, and especially from discussions and conversations with the faculty in the department.
Needs assessment is the neglected cousin to outcomes assessment but no less important. For each course or assignment identified as a moment, our task is to consider:
A larger consideration is to begin to prioritize by giving weight to the moments depending on the nature and extent of the need for instruction or support for the particular needs. A typical pattern for support might include:
