Finding interesting approaches to teach the concepts of information literacy is a problem that many face in library instruction. The Lichtenberger Engineering Library at the University of Iowa has been working to create a fun and engaging way through an online video series that walks students through different parts of information literacy while allowing the students to choose their own path.
Using the concept of the Choose Your Own Adventure books published by Bantam Books and the They Made Me Do Research series by the University of Northern Colorado, the Lichtenberger Engineering Library has set out to create a video series that will help students explore various topics of information literacy. Each series of videos, called a module, teaches one topic of information literacy. The first module – which has been completed – focuses on evaluating information using the CRAAP Test. The second module, which is under development, will focus on setting up search strategies.
A module will consist of 18 to 20 videos, each less than 2 minutes in length. Each video will end with a question and require the viewer to choose from several video options. Each option takes the storyline in a different direction. The video series is no longer passive learning – by requiring the viewer to evaluate each scene and the potential outcomes, it becomes active engagement and learning.
These videos will be embedded in various seminars and classes throughout the College of Engineering. They are created to help in both classroom instruction and as stand-alone learning tools. Completion of a module will award the student a digital badge that can be linked directly to an online course management system, allowing instructors to see who has completed the assignment.
By completing a video series, or module, the student will have created their own adventure while learning different aspects of information literacy in a fun and engaging way.
Kari Kozak is the Director of the Lichtenberger Engineering Library at The University of Iowa. She provides instruction, reference, and consultation services to student, faculty, and staff within the departments and research centers in the College of Eng
Claire Szeszycki is a graduate of the University of Iowa, where she assisted Kari Kozak with the creation and production of the Detective Jones "Choose Your Own Adventure" video series. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies from the University of Northern Iowa, and a master's degree in Library and Information Science with an additional graduate certificate in Public Digital Humanities from the University of Iowa. Claire currently utilizes her research skills through her position as a Prospect Management Analyst for the University of Iowa Center for Advancement.
David Snyder is a graduate student at the University of Iowa currently pursuing a MA in Library and Information Science. He holds a Bachelors Degree in Biology from Iowa State University. Currently, David works at the Lichtenberger Engineering Library as a graduate worker where he assists in the creation of the Detecting Information Literacy series as well as other videos. After graduation, David hopes to work in a science library where he can put his undergraduate and graduate skills to work together.
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