FDS100 Library Instruction Information & Scheduling

When is the best time to have my students meet with a librarian? 

The best time to schedule a session is right around when students may begin to need to use library resources to gather information for a research assignment, whether it is for the larger individual research project all FDS100 students are completing on their Wicked Problem or a smaller activity during the semester. Scheduling a session once students have been introduced to the research assignment helps them to engage by allowing them to see how skills covered in the session have direct applications to their assignments. 

While the information literacy module is typically completed during Week 4 of the semester, you can schedule an instruction session with a librarian anytime during the semester that makes the most sense for your class and its schedule. 

When should I fill out the instruction request form to schedule a library session? 

You can fill out the instruction request form as soon as you know your preferred dates for a library session for your class. Earlier scheduling not only increases chances that your first preferred date/time of session is available but also increases chances of having your class be able to meet in the Research Instruction Center (RIC - Room 011, Lower Level of the Library).  

At minimum, fill out the form two weeks before your first preferred date of session for scheduling and planning purposes. 

What will I need to provide when filling out the form? 

The instruction request form will ask for some basic contact information as well as: 

• First Preferred Date of Library Session 
• Second Preferred Date of Library Session 
• Number of students enrolled 
• The “Wicked Problem” or theme of the class 

Please provide a copy of your syllabus for the semester and/or the assignment students will be working on at the time of the research instruction class. You'll see an option where you can upload PDF or .DOC files. If you are teaching multiple sections, you only need to include one copy. 

If you want us to include your peer leader(s) in communications about scheduling and planning the session, please include their name and Bentley email address when filling out the section's information. 

Do I need to fill out separate forms if I am teaching more than one section? 

No! We've streamlined the instruction request process so you can use one form to schedule multiple sections. You will see a choice to schedule a second section and provide the relevant information. 

What can I expect to be covered during the workshop with the library? 

All library sessions will last for a full class session (80 minutes) and kick off with a common activity designed by the Library and FDS100. Students will be introduced to the library website and the Bentley Library Search. Specific search strategies and additional activities can be tailored to the Wicked Problem and assignments students will be completing.