Synopsis
This introductory guide provides a step-by-step plan for trainers, technology coordinators, and administrators to create a formal training program. Gordon, of Franklin Park (IL) Library, has taught Internet courses since 1998. She gears her resource toward public librarians and their users, but the information can be adapted for libraries of many types and sizes. Appendices include resources on training and information literacy as well as examples of handouts, marketing materials, evaluation forms, and other helpful items. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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Reviews
Gordon's splendid book will help lay the groundwork for establishing Internet training in both school and public libraries. It provides justification for additional computers and information on grant writing, trainer qualifications, and designing classes; and shows sample handouts, including a brochure in Spanish. Smith's title is written for those with technical expertise. It begins with a list of acronyms, but gives no explanation of their meanings. Reasons to use Web-based instruction, when it is inappropriate, and the effectiveness of this type of instruction are justified and expanded through the list of resources at the end of the book. Program examples range from general orientation sessions to information literacy courses. Design development phases are presented in flowchart format. Project development tools, software, hardware, and authoring software programs are covered. Designing the user interface, navigation, screen layout, visual design, user accessibility, and page optimization are addressed. Of these three books, Stephens's title will be of most value to librarians. It presents 12 modules or sets of instruction programs to be used in conjunction with a CD-ROM that offers more than 400 slides, directions, handouts, and fliers. Each module begins with a brief introduction, anticipated outcomes for attendees, and tips for presentation. They cover navigating the Internet and the Web, using e-mail and WWW e-mail services, and security issues and safety tips. Module 12 discusses the consumption of memory by digital images and provides excellent ideas for selection and use of digital images and cameras. Alterations to the modules to suit individual library needs can be completed quickly. The CD-ROM also provides the scripts for each instructional program in Microsoft Word format. The slides are uncluttered with clear font size and pleasing colors. All three books clearly indicate the need for training staff and patrons in effective use of the Internet. Merely providing access to it and to other computer applications is no longer sufficient to utilize fully a library's PAC as well as the wealth of information available on the Web.
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
Public libraries interested in starting or expanding their Internet training programs are in luck, as these two titles will make their task much easier. Gordon (head of computer services, Franklin Park Lib., IL) has written a concise yet complete guide to establishing an Internet training program in a public library. It covers how to select and prepare trainers, set up a training environment, and teach a variety of topics (e.g., Internet basics, genealogy research, job-hunting) to diverse groups (e.g., Spanish speakers, seniors). Also included are descriptions of existing Internet training programs and suggestions for evaluating a training program, plus sample handouts, forms, and promotional materials.
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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