Graduate Research Papers

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Open Access Graduate Research Paper

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore ways in which the school library space can function to serve the needs oflearners in the 21st century. Additionally, this study explores teacher librarians' perceptions of school library spaces in terms of the features that best support 21st century learning. Findings from interviews were used to determine which features of school library spaces aim to meet the social, emotional, and academic needs of all learners. Three teacher librarians from public school systems participated in the study. Participants completed an initial interest survey in which they indicated number of years of service in their current positions and the changes they have made to the school library space to better meet the needs of students.

The researcher found that the largest factors contributing to student use of school library space include a welcoming environment, comfortable seating, and availability of choice activities including board games and makerspace materials. Participants indicated a need for mobile furniture, natural lighting, sound barriers, and an overall increase in physical space. Additionally, findings indicated that school library stakeholders may not understand the rationale behind the shift from "traditional" library settings to library spaces that reflect elements of a learning commons.

Year of Submission

2016

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Department of Curriculum and Instruction

First Advisor

Joan Bessman Taylor

Comments

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Date Original

8-2016

Object Description

1 PDF file (44 pages)

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

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