AnnotatedBibliography



Reichenbach_11.1_MU5541_Annotated Bibliography

Koechlin, Carol, Michelle Luhtala, and David V. Loertscher. “Knowledge Building in the Learning Commons.” //Teacher Librarian// 38.3 (2011):20-26. //Academic Search Complete.// Web. 31 July 2013.

Koechlin, along with Loertscher, are THE experts in the Learning Commons. I was able to participate in a Webinar a few months ago, learning how to construct a Learning Commons for my school. In this article, the authors address The Colorado study of 2010 (Keith Curry Lance) and the importance of the teacher librarian in the schools. This piece is particularly important when speak to the necessity of school librarians. Among the ideas addressed are: collaborative instructional design, the ability of librarians to disseminate and validate information and media, use of technology, and teaching information literacy.

Loertscher, David. “The Power of Technology to Enhance Learning.” //Teacher Librarian// 38.3 (2011):40-41. //Academic Search Complete.// Web. 31 July 2013.

Loertscher emphasizes the importance of ‘always-on’ learning. The importance of constructivist learning, being generated by the learner is highlighted. This article is an important piece in my evidence for advocating the Virtual Learning Commons. He also discusses that technology must be available for this model to work successfully. Useful information for my presentation. Loertscher, David V. “Real Learning in the Learning Commons.” //Teacher Librarian// 40.4 (2013): 60. //Academic Search Complete.// Web. 31 July 2013. Loertscher defends and provides empirical evidence for the Learning commons. The school library moves from the traditional setting and uses to a more connected approach. The library transitions to a true Learning Commons by connecting and collaboration. Students are more in control of their learning and the inquiry approach is adopted. Links to examples of the Learning Commons in several settings are provided for examination.

Loertscher, David V. “Unleash the Power Of Technology in Education.” //Teacher Librarian// 39.1(2011): 46-47. //Academic Search Complete.// Web. 31 July 2013.

Technology in education is more successful when technology is fully embraced. That is, students are permitted to use their own devices in the school building, during the school day, for educational purposes. Schools range from full implementation of technology to barely recognizing the beneficial uses for education. Loertscher implies that schools should be moving toward more uses of technology in order to support education. Loertscher, David, and Carol Koechlin. "The Virtual Learning Commons Created by David Loertscher and Carol Koechlin - Learningcommons." //The Virtual Learning Commons Created by David Loertscher and Carol Koechlin - Learningcommons//. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Aug. 2013. This is the wiki created by Loertscher and Koechlin that describes the Virtual Learning Commons. Within the wiki, the VLC is divided into the different areas of learning and school culture. A template is also provided. Examples of functioning VLCs are also provided. Also included is an exhaustive list of the impact of technology on education.

Marcoux, Elizabeth “Betty”, and David V. Loertscher. “Achieving Teaching And Learning Excellence With Technology.” //Teacher Librarian// 37.2 (2009): 14-22. //Academic Search Complete.// Web. 31 July 2013.

Technology provides educators with countless applications and software that can be used for learning. Rather than purchasing/deciding what software to use, the authors support identifying what needs to be done, then search for the technology that best fits the scenario. Technology will also benefit differentiation to accommodate various learning styles. All types of learners, teachers and students alike, will be able to create professional-looking presentations. Along with boosting creativity, learning benefits from technology. Twenty-first century skills, learning to contribute to a collective intelligence, are enhanced when students use Web 2.0 technology.