Reading List (R)evolution - exploring the value of reading lists as a pedagogical tool to support students' development of information skills

Abstract

Reading lists are a ubiquitous part of U.K. Higher Education and tutors are expected to provide them as guidance on every course. Currently reading lists are used primarily for collection development purposes. We feel it is time to explore their additional role as a tool to support students’ information skills development. Opportunities are arising for librarians and academics to work together to develop reading lists as a pedagogical tool. Studies have highlighted the value of annotated reading lists for signposting students to different sources of information in terms of format, level and style of writing. This can help to support or ‘scaffold’ students’ development of key information skills, notably the ability to access, retrieve and use information appropriately and effectively. This session will present findings from practitioner research exploring students’ perceptions of reading lists as part of their learning experience. Examples of reading lists will be used as discussion points to encourage participants’ reflection on the student experience. The session will facilitate the sharing and generation of ideas on how we can promote more active engagement with reading lists by all stakeholders (academics, students, librarians). It will also reflect on how the research has been used to implement the reading list software, Talis Aspire, a more dynamic tool for managing these lists. The research is designed to encourage the (r)evolution of reading lists so that they are used as a valuable pedagogical tool to support students’ information skills development and enhance their learning at university