New AASL Standards Unveiled in Reno

The new AASL Standards were unveiled at Reno, and each conference attendee received a copy. Initially, there is a section of common beliefs that include:

• "Reading is a window to the world.
• Inquiry provides a framework for learning.
• Ethical behavior in the use of information must be taught.
• Technology skills are crucial for future employment needs.
• Equitable access is a key component for education.
• The definition of information literacy has become more complex as resources and technologies have changed.
• The continuing expansion of information demands that all individuals acquire the thinking skills that will enable them to learn on their own.
• Learning has a social context.
• School libraries are essential to the development of learning skills."

The standards are then outlined, along with the necessary skills, actions, responsibilities, self-assessment strategies, and key questions. The four standards require learners to use skills, resources, and tools to:

• "Inquire, think critically, and gain knowledge.
• Draw conclusions, make informed decisions, apply knowledge to new situations, and create new knowledge.
• Share knowledge and participate ethically and productively as members of our democratic society.
• Pursue personal and aesthetic growth."

The standards can be downloaded at http://www.ala.org/aasl/standards

For more information about this new document and how it meshes with our new MSLA standards, attend our MSLA Conference at Sturbridge. There, Sara Kelly Johns, President of AASL, and Valerie Diggs, chairman of MSLA's standards committee, will be conducting a concurrent session from 3:10 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. to discuss the issue. Don't miss this important opportunity for sharing and discussion. It would be helpful to download a copy and read it before coming to Sturbridge.