Making the Match (YALSA)
Become an expert and connecting teens with books! In a survey by Smartgirl.org and YALSA, the majority of teen respondents said that they would read more if they knew about more good books to read. In Professor Lesesne's own survey of 3600+ teens (2012) suggested that materials we think are their favorites are not always on target. In this e-course you will learn how to make a successful match between library materials and your teen library users. Course participants will explore adolescent development, learn about teen reading preferences and take part in an active discussion about specific books and library materials that meet the varied needs and interests of teens. If you are just beginning to work with teens, there will be plenty of opportunities for some background and groundwork. For the more proficient, there will be opportunities to move into deeper knowledge. A final piece on Common Core and the role of the librarian in helping to provide “exemplar texts” will be included.
Learning Outcomes
YALSA Competencies
Learning Objectives
Knowledge
- Describe the reading needs and interests of teens.
- Describe the role of the librarian in reading guidance and motivation.
- Identify strategies and activities for matching teens and books.
- Identify sources for keeping current in the field.
- Examine the librarian’s role in Common Core (surface only).
Skills:
- Identify and use book selection tools and reviewing sources.
- Annotate and respond to a variety of YA books.
- Select books developmentally appropriate for various learners.
- Identify the resources available through ALA and YALSA.
- Develop annotated lists for Common Core (preliminary).
Dispositions:
- Recognize the benefits and importance of using multicultural literature with all teens.
- Provide reading materials that reflect diversity.
- Distinguish between selection and self-censorship.
- Model appropriate literate behaviors.
- Demonstrate enthusiasm for books and reading.
Who Should Attend
Young adult librarians, school librarians, teachers, administrators, and any literacy-focused professional who works directly with teens and tweens.
Course Requirements
Participation is this course will require approximately 2.5 hours (asynchronous) per week to:
- Read the online course material
- Post to online discussion boards
- Complete online exercises
Instructor(s)
Teri Lesesne (rhymes with insane) is a longtime member of YALSA and has served on various committees including the Printz (Going Bovine was the winning title), the YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction Award (Janis Joplin: Rise Up Singing was the award recipient), the Morris (Where Things Come Back) and is current chair of the Odyssey Audiobook Committee. She teaches literature for children and teens at SHSU in the Department of Library Science. Teri is the winner of the 2007 ALAN Award for distinguished contribution to the field of adolescent literature and the 2011 Halle Award from NCTE for Excellence in Middle level education. Teri is the author of three professional books and numerous articles about reading and motivation and teens.
Date(s) & Time(s)
This course will take place July 2 – August 13.
This is an asynchronous course so there is no specific time that students meet together in the classroom. Students complete the coursework at a time that is most convenient for them. Each week the instructor posts a list of readings, assignments and discussion questions. Students complete the readings and respond to the discussion questions on the online discussion forums.
It is also available to be licensed for presentation to your library by contacting Eve Gaus at egaus@ala.org or 1-800-545-2433 ext. 5293.
Course Length & CEUs
This course is 6 weeks in length. Making the Match offers 1.5 CEUs to participants who successfully complete the course.
Fee
- $169 YALSA members
- $215 ALA Members
- $235 nonmembers
Course Pairings
Interested in other YA literature classes? Check out Booktalks Quick and Simple, Boys and Books, and Power Up with Print!
Registration
Registration is closed. Refund requests must be submitted in writing prior to July 3, 2012. A course cancellation will be charged a $40 cancellation fee.
Contact
Eve Gaus, YALSA's program officer for continuing education, at egaus@ala.org or 1-800-545-2433, ext. 5293.
