Talking+Points

__ Talking Points __for the issues facing the profession such as__ School Library Funding __

The Role of the Librarian is an integral part of a world-class, 21st century education. Information literacy is at the heart of lifelong learning and personal responsibility. It provides the 21st century skill set needed for any learner and/or worker to thrive and compete effectively in today’s global economy. As we move further into the 21st century, information literacy will become the standard-bearer for academic achievement, workforce productivity, competitive advantage, and national security. School and Academic Librarians are involved deeply in developing information literacy curricula, to culminate in a capstone experience. A student-centered Capstone Project (CP) learning experience is an exit opportunity for demonstrating achievement of information literacy outcomes. Over 30 states now have Capstones/Senior Project® at some secondary schools and universities. AASL and ACRL need to coordinate state, regional, national and global efforts to mainstream Capstones/Senior Project® and improve program quality and quantity.

Pedagogical foundation: The school library learning standards focus on skills that prepare learners for education and careers after graduation by teaching students strategies to assess and recognize their personal strengths and weaknesses resulting in stronger independent learners. Learners apply Information Literacy Competency Standards to enhance research skills, learning, and application. Capstone/Senior Project® is // the //
 * // culmination of the AASL Standards for the 21st Century Learner, //the
 * bridge to the ACRL Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education, and the
 * building block to Learning4Life.