La Ventra E.

Danquah, Librarian III

Wayne State University Library System
Instruction Recharge | September 2, 2009

Simple Active Learning Strategies for Instruction Librarians

The following strategies can be implemented during library instruction. Techniques can be utilized to
expedite learning, conduct interactive presentations/talks, topical reviews and on-the-spot
assessments. Preparation is important when selecting an active learning strategy. Make sure the
technique(s) assist in achieving your learning goal, fits the presentation format and that you have
enough time to practice. Keep in mind most strategies can be modified to align with your
instructional goals. Finally, the ADDIE model is recommended when designing instructional plans.

Strategy Steps Used for…

The Reason I’m Here?
Overview: This simple strategy
is a great opener and helps
participants immediately
engage in the topic.
1. Distribute index cards or scrap paper. 1. Immediate learning
2. Ask participants to record one learning involvement
goal or ask; “What do you expect to 2. Independent
learn from the presentation?” learning
3. Have participants put the information 3. Self-assessment
aside and continue with the 4. Topical review
presentation.
4. At the break or at the end of the
presentation, have participants recall
their learning goal and assess whether
it has been achieved.

Note: Leave enough time to address

unanswered questions.

Guided Note Taking 1. Distribute the fill-in-the-blank handout. 1. Immediate

Overview: To help participants
focus during a lecture or talk,
distribute a fill-in-the-blank
handout. Answers should
include key points participants
should listen for throughout the
presentation.
2. Review instructions. Tell participants learning
that the handout will assist them with involvement
capturing key information. 2. Independent
3. Conduct lecture/talk. learning
4. Review handout at the end of the 3. Self-assessment
presentation. Have participants read 4. Topical review
aloud.
5. Ask if there are additional questions.

Sample question… Alternative: Ask questions throughout the

presentation, instead of using a handout
Accessing licensed resources
record questions on PowerPoint slides.
remotely may require you to
Pose a question after presenting each
logon to WSU Library System’s
chuck of information.
___________.

1
Answer = EZ Proxy
The Answer Is?
Overview: Most instructors
develop a learning activity with
their presentation. This strategy
is an interactive approach for
using the activity.
Adapted from, Silberman, M. L. (1996). Active learning : 101 strategies to teach any subject.
Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
NOTES:
Note: Four to five questions is sufficient.
Be careful not to overload participants with
too much information.
1. Identify learning activity. 1. Immediate learning
2. Tell participants that the activity will be involvement
used throughout the presentation. 2. Independent
3. Demonstrate a feature or two from the learning
database/resource. 3. Self-assessment
4. Allow participants to answer a 4. Topical review
question from the learning activity.
5. Review answer and search strategy.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 until presentation is
completed.
Note: Questions on the learning activity
should reflect the features demonstrated
during the presentation.
2
 La Ventra E. Danquah, Librarian III
Wayne State University Library System
Instruction Recharge | September 2, 2009