Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 13
Lights, Cameras, Actions!
Via Teacher Librarian
Video Conferencing
Lesley Farmer
California State University, USA
AbstrACt
How can professional organizations build an online community of practice that enables teacher librar-
ians globally to connect meaningfully and make a difference locally—and beyond? Video conferencing
is one solution. Using video conferencing, teacher librarians have a unique opportunity to help build a
strong collaborative, professional network that will positively impact best practices while at the same
time raise awareness of twenty-first century librarianship. Critical elements and practices are identified
that facilitate communities of practice and support teacher librarian professional development. Aspects
of video conferencing are detailed, and a case study on the use of video conferencing explains how to
facilitate a nation-wide community of practice among teacher librarians.
introduCtion
communities of practice (CoP). For communities
of practice to succeed, both social interaction and
ongoing improvement must exist. Time constraints
and transportation make face-to-face meetings
increasingly problematic. In this interactive digital
age, virtual social networking models need to be
explored as an effective means of facilitating com-
munities of practice, particularly if TLs are to expand
their knowledge beyond local practice.
Video is making a comeback because of its mul-
timedia and archival features. Particularly with the
advent of digital camcorders and easy-to-use editing
software, video has regained its reputation as a viable
To become a proficient teacher librarian (TL)
requires ongoing education and interaction with
peers (Smith, 2003). Some school districts provide
mechanisms for professional development: material
and human resources, formal and information learn-
ing opportunities, and funding for participation in
professional development venues. More recently,
school districts and professional organizations have
been experimenting with ways to build and maintain
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