Reflection regarding the TL's roles & responsibilities.....

Hello,

I’ve really found the Reidling text does a great job of outlining the theoretical roles and responsibilities of a typical TL. One of the first concepts I learned about was the topic of ‘reference services’. This concept was well-explained and I drew a diagram right on the blank pg. 2, to the left of its description in the Reidling text. The TL’s title is the mediator and I pictured information as flowing from all highways imaginable. The TL’s job is to metaphorically reach into this stream of information and connect the most appropriate information to the students. The word ‘appropriate’ relates to the process of the TL gathering prior information about the student and the particular research topic. A TL can continually find information about any topic. In order to make the sources more meaningful to the students, it’s a good idea for the TL to talk/interview students in order to acquire more information about the topic and make judgment regarding the grade level and/or ability of the student. If the TL suggests or provides resources that do not match up with a students abilities then the student could become frustrated and discouraged. If a TL suggests a resource for a student and the student does not see its benefit then the TL could potentially make a negative impact on a student and this student may not be as willing in the future to request the services of the TL.