Ray Doiron

Whither They Go

Abstract This study investigated how teacher education programs address the role of school libraries in supporting current educational and curriculum reform, especially integrated information literacy instruction. Methods instructors, practicum coordinators, and library staff from a stratified random sample of 17 teacher education programs in Canada were surveyed and interviewed. While results indicated that teacher educators value the role of school libraries in teaching and learning, pre-service teachers are not effectively learning about school library programs and services and information literacy pedagogy. Evidence-based implications for advocacy initiatives in teacher education programs are offered.

Exploring a new learning landscape in tertiary education

Purpose – This conceptual paper aims to stimulate discussion on the growing influence of digital technologies on the success of learners in tertiary institutions.Design/methodology/approach – The paper is grounded in a synthesis of the professional literature showing how learners entering tertiary institutions have been influenced by their pervasive use of digital technologies. This evidence suggests that a more integrated use of libraries is needed, and more collaboration among librarians, educators and learners will be fundamental to responding to the changing learning landscape.Findings – The findings indicate that todays “new learners” expect more control of their learning situations, prefer active learning and they engage in networked communities for their social and professional lives. Research also shows that, while these learners are committed users of a wide range of digital technologies, they require support in developing their information and critical literacies. The paper also identified the ...

Promoting a culture for reading in a diverse world

Drawing on the research linking literacy and libraries, this paper provides a conceptual framework for promoting and encouraging children’s reading for librarians working in diverse library settings around the world. Current successful examples of reading promotion programs from around the world are shared to demonstrate how different libraries take the lead in promoting literacy and building a culture for reading in their communities.

New perspectives on community library development in Africa

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the constraints of and opportunities for the role of African community libraries in development, using an ecological framework for library development. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing on a review of the literature and the three authors’ own experiences, the paper critically examines community libraries, mainly from Uganda and Ethiopia, and frames the analysis within an ecological framework of library development. Findings – There are many examples of community libraries that realize various elements of the ecological framework (context/environment, equity/social justice, partnerships/interactions, and action/research). Practical implications – The ecological framework further developed in this paper helps community library leaders to critically examine their programmes and services and develop strategies for further growth, and suggests closer collaboration between community librarians, local communities, and researchers. Originality/value – This pap...

Challenges and Responsibilities Facing Canadian Literacy Researchers Working in Global Communities

This article addresses issues facing Canadian literacy researchers who are working in global contexts and particularly the potential complications that arise when research conducted in developing countries is funded by sources such as international aid institutions, foreign governments, non-governmental organizations, and donor-based organizations. We focus especially on the issue of development of local research capacity and expansion of the knowledge economy. We first create a framework by describing the types of literacy projects funded by alternatives to the standard research grants of government agencies. We next review tensions that can arise between researchers and these types of funding organizations. We then turn to examples of current Canadian literacy research carried out in developing countries that provide guidance in designing, conducting, and publishing locally-empowering and globally-connected research.