home > policies > ALIA/ASLA policy on resource based learning and the curriculum

ALIA/ASLA policy on resource based learning and the curriculum

Joint policy of the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) and Australian School Library Association (ASLA)

Purpose

To adopt the resource based learning approach ensures resources enhance the teaching and learning outcomes of the learners.

ALIA objects addressed

To promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interest of all Australians and a thriving culture, economy and democracy.
To promote and improve the services provided by all kinds of library and information agencies.

ASLA objectives addressed

Establish, review and maintain national standards and guidelines for school library resource services.
Promote an understanding of the aims, needs and educational significance of school library resource services and teacher librarianship.
Promote research in the field of school library services and teacher librarianship nationwide.
Develop, write and publish materials which will promote the development of school library resource services and teacher librarianship.

Principle

Resource based learning is a methodology that allows learners to learn from their own investigation of information resources.

Statement

Active learning provides a means by which teachers are able to tailor information resources, learning activities, the location of those activities and expected learning outcomes to the needs and abilities of each child.

Through resource based programs learners develop the skills necessary for gaining intellectual access to information, acquire knowledge and understandings and use resources for personal growth and fulfilment. In particular, these programs provide learners with opportunities to:

develop the capacity to recognise a need for information, to know how and where to find it from a range of sources, and how to select, organise and communicate it to others;
acquire the skills required to analyse, interpret, systhesise and organise information as well as the language and communication skills of reading, writing, viewing, speaking and listening;
develop as critical thinkers and creative problem solvers while building on a dynamic view of themselves as confident and discerning information users;
extend their cultural understandings and their information competencies in increasingly complex contexts, using a range of information sources, formats and technologies as an integral part of their learning;
use resources including literature, to further their personal growth.