Presentation Title: Fostering Career Preparedness Through MLIS Course Experiences and the Experiential Learning Theory

Presenter(s): Ashley Minnich

Abstract: Information professionals in the 21st century must contend with a number of challenges and rapid changes to digital and physical spaces, the information landscape, and the evolving needs of diverse user populations. Graduate LIS course experiences that focus on the ‘learning by doing’ approach of the Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) set forth by David A. Kolb is a valuable method by which emerging information professionals can develop skills and abilities needed to become prepared, adaptable, and knowledgeable professionals in the LIS workplace. Through ELT focused experiences in graduate coursework, emerging information professionals develop a more meaningful understanding of the iterative process of searching for information to meet a user’s information needs, the diversity of user populations and the different techniques needed to provide them with access to information, and their own philosophy around learning and how they will create units of instruction in their professional capacities. In this presentation, three key examples of ELT in SJSU’s MLIS courses and how these experiences inform the skills and abilities required to be a successful modern day information professional are explored. These include answering reference letters from incarcerated individuals, searching for information to meet a client’s specific information needs, and creating in-depth and relevant instructional opportunities through design plans. By linking the necessary skills and abilities required of emerging information professionals to these ELT-focused course experiences, the theory’s role in cultivating adaptability and innovation in future information professionals is underscored.

Link to Recorded Presentation: https://youtu.be/_4UrnI5VDCQ