Librarians’ Roles in Informatics to Support Classroom Incorporation of Technology

Abstract

Informatics, particularly as applied to K12 settings, has received little systematic attention worldwide, although the field itself is growing due to the impact of technology and information advances. Too often, informatics has been approached as a tool-based skill rather than an academic domain with theoretical underpinnings. Content knowledge, technological knowledge, and pedagogical knowledge are required for success. School librarians can serve as expert partners in these endeavors. They have more knowledge and experience with informatics than anyone else in the setting, they can select and incorporate informational and technological resources and learning activities that are developmentally appropriate and relevant for students, they know how to manage knowledge effectively, and they know how to collaborate effectively with the rest of the school community in order to optimize curriculum development, instructional design, and delivery.