The Reference Interview
.
video: Kansas City Public Library-youtube
The Reference Interview
One of the jobs of a teacher-librarian is to determine what a students wants through conducting a reference interview. The reference interview is essentially a conversation between the teacher-librarian and the students to help determine the information the student requires . Many times when a student comes to the library, they may not even be sure what they are looking for or where to begin to look. Teacher-librarians help bring student and information together (Reidling).Teacher-librarians who are good listeners, approachable, and have good interpersonal skills are more likely to be able to determine quickly and efficiently what the information is that the student needs. In the book, Reference skills for the school library media specialist: Tools and tips, (Third Edition) by Ann Reidling, Reidling says “reference interviews consist of rules, methods, & characteristics. They are not only a art, but also a science. It can be learned and practiced to produce effective results for
students".
Skills for giving a great Reference Interview
Tangible Skills: these are the ones that can be practiced and improved upon:
Non-verbal skills:
- Being approachable
- Friendly Tone of voice
- Make Eye contact
- Friendly Gestures & Facial expression
- Good Posture
Verbal Skills:
- Be positive and respectful
- Use motivational words and be encouraging
- Have positive reactions
- Avoid premature answers or opinions
Intangible Skills: attitude, appearance, and experiences
(Reidling, Chapter 9)
The 3 Types of Reference Interviews:
Ready Reference Interview
Research Project Interview
Readers Advisory Interview
The Research Project Reference Interview is a great place to teach students information literacy skills. When students use search engines to look for information for a research project, some of the information obtained from the web may be inaccurate or invalid. Teacher-librarians can teach students how to sort through the information to determine which sites are trustworthy and accurate information.
 |
| courtesy of virtuallibrary.info |
REFERENCES:
- Riedling, Ann, Reference skills for the school library media specialist: Tools and tips, (Third Edition). Linworth.
Hi Denise! I really enjoyed how you pointed out how the Research Project Interview specifically is a great way to teach students how to learn information literacy skills. I agree. Probably a great place for a teacher librarian to practice the reference interview. As well, I enjoyed the video you linked! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHi Brianne,
DeleteThanks for the feedback!
Hi Denise,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed watching the video. It really highlighted just how important it is that we take the time to ask our students questions so that we can help point them in the right direction. When the customer first asked "can birds fly?" I totally thought she was asking if birds physically fly on their own, not on an airplane! Thanks for sharing, I am going to have to bookmark this one!
Yes, me too!
DeleteI agree it's a great video!
You have given a great review of the reference interview - clear and concise. I like how you break down the Tangible Skills and remind us that they can be improved upon. I feel this will take lots of practice for me, especially staying positive throughout, regardless of the challenge or the tone that is shared. The video demonstrated how easy it is to jump to conclusions or let your opinion interfere with the inquiry process. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteNice summerize, cheers
ReplyDelete