Description
Current Issue Discussion Groups provide a way for IS members to introduce instruction-related topics of current importance, to promote discussion and encourage further exploration.
What to Include in the Proposal
The following five elements need to be addressed and clearly stated in the proposal:
• A clear description of the discussion topic’s issue/s
• Rationale for convening a discussion on the topic’s issue/s
• Importance of the topic’s issue/s for academic instruction librarians
• At least three sample discussion questions that may be used to facilitate group discussion
• Proposed strategies and structure that will maintain group discussion
The potential scope of issues includes, but is not limited to:
Teaching methods; Instruction and information technology; Assessment; Management of instruction programs; Outreach and collaboration; Research in academic information literacy. The topic should be focused enough to be covered reasonably well within the allotted time. (For example “Everything about WIKIs” would be too broad, while “Using WIKIs in Library Instruction at Academic Institutions” might be just the right scope).
Expectations for Current Issue Discussion Group Conveners
For the selected proposals, the proposal author(s) will serve as convener(s) and commit to:
• becoming up-to-date and familiar with the discussion topic;
• exploring possible discussion formats and selecting the appropriate format that allows for maximum discussion within the parameters and scope of the topic;
• drafting an initial two-page to three-page, double spaced “Current Issue Digest” summarizing findings about the issue to be posted to ILI-L at least two weeks before the conference and handed out at the discussion;
• identifying a few key readings, related organizations and/or programs to include in the “Current Issue Digest;”
• facilitating one of two “Current Issue Discussions” at the ALA Annual Conference (in Washington D.C., June 24-29, 2010);
• revising and submitting a final “Current Issue Digest” to be posted on the IS web site within one month of the discussion;
• distributing the final “Current Issue Digest” to the ILI Listserv after it is reviewed by the Discussion Group Steering Committee;
• maintaining communication with an assigned liaison from the Discussion Group Steering Committee throughout the planning, program, and follow-up processes.
Who May Apply
Applications are welcome from any IS members.
How to Apply
Complete and submit the proposal form to the IS Current Issue Discussion Group Steering Committee co-chair by November 2, 2009. The proposal form is attached. Send the completed form to Merinda Hensley (mhensle1@illinois.edu).
Contact committee co-chairs Carrie Forbes (carrie.forbes@du.edu) or Merinda Hensley (mhensle1@illinois.edu) with questions.
Process
Selection will be based on the perceived importance and impact of the proposed topic. Additional selection criteria used in the selection process includes evaluating proposed topics for: timeliness, relevancy, currency, practicality (that the topic lends itself to a discussion), innovation, evidence of applicant’s knowledge, and clear focus. Proposals must be submitted by November 2, 2009 for ALA Annual in Washington, D.C. Proposal writers will be notified by December 1, 2009 as to whether or not their proposal was accepted and will be assigned a Committee liaison. Conveners are responsible for their own conference registration and travel expenses.
Proposal form
Proposals submitted by November 2, 2009, will be considered for one of two discussion groups to be held at the ALA Annual Conference in Washington, D.C.
Brief title:
Please attach a summary of the proposed discussion’s focus and its importance to the profession (Note: Keep in mind the selection criteria used: timeliness, relevancy, currency, practicality, innovation, evidence of applicant’s knowledge, and clear focus.):
(Up to 400 words)
Please attach a proposed outline as to how you will initiate and facilitate discussion, as well as how you will maintain a discussion format. Include a MINIMUM of 3 questions that will be posed in the discussion. (Up to 400 words)
Provide the following contact information for proposed discussion group convener(s):
Name
Institution
Email Address
Phone
___ Please check to confirm that at least one convener is a current IS members.
___ Please check to indicate that you accept the responsibilities of discussion group conveners.
If your proposal is selected, you will be notified by December 1, 2009. At that time you will be assigned a liaison from the Discussion Group Steering Committee.
Please read the “Tips for Discussion Group Conveners” posted on the IS-DGSC webpage. It provides details on the Current Issue Digests, deadlines, and expectations!
Conveners and other participants are responsible for their own conference registration and travel expenses.
Submit your completed proposal form by email to Merinda Hensley (mhensle1@illinois.edu), co-chair of the IS Discussion Group Steering Committee, by November 2, 2009.