Resource Based Learning

Resource Based Learning
I did not learn about RBL at university when I studied for my Diploma of Education. Neither did I see it practiced during my 8 years of teaching. This seems strange to me given how RBL has the potential to engage learners, cater for different learning styles and needs while teaching so many transferable skills.

I do know that at the library in the school that I worked in often there was a small selection of very out-dated books available and often over half of the already limited amount of computers were not in working order or students had lost access to computers due to inappropriate use or other reasons. Thus an idealistic teacher wishing to implement RBL may well discover the resources so limited that the RBL would be very challenging if not impossible!

I also think - (and this could be myself that I'm speaking about) - that teachers can sometimes be afraid to give students the freedoms associated with RBL. The fear that students will waste time and that learning outcomes will not be reached makes chalk and talk seem safe and secure. I have had year nine students hide behind book shelves to look at old year books and others just chatting about playground politics during research or group work activities in library. One feels like a plate spinner at a circus trying to maintain their focus.

What does this all mean in the light of my readings about Teacher Librarians???
Firstly, that libraries must be funded so that TLs can get the resources required and so that the technology to support ICT exists! Secondly, that if I and other TLs work together - these resources can be selected to support the curriculum. Thirdly, that TL's must be adequately trained to assit teachers with the implementation of RBL.

Maybe if all of this is done well students can have the opportunity to experience the advantages of RBL and be less inclined to lose focus when in the library. Maybe they would see the library as another learning space in the school rather than be caught up in the excitement of being out of the classroom and viewing this as an opportunity to misbehave. Maybe the library can be seen as a place where students can talk - so long as they are discussing the topic at hand - rather than a place of silence and individual work.

RBL has such great potential - but support systems and training must be in place to make it work. There is a real risk in not doing it properly - leading to a lack of faith and trust in both teachers and students as to its value.