An effective library assignment has a specific, understood purpose. It relates to some aspect of the course subject matter or learning objectives. It will lead to increased understanding of the subject or the process of locating information related to the subject. A library assignment that meets this criteria is an excellent teaching tool, can enhance and enrich the student's learning experience. It also increases the understanding of the subject matter and builds research skills.

Do's:
Do Consult with a librarian
Do Check the Pearsall Library online catalog to find out if we have the resources you are recommending to your students
Do Arrange for a Library Instruction session to teach research strategy
Do Plan to have your students attend a Library Instruction session when they are ready to begin their projects, not before
Do Make sure your students have done some thinking about their topics before attending a Library session
Do Provide librarians with a copy of your assignment
Do Keep the assignment simple. Make sure your students can understand all of the steps
Do Articulate your research objectives clearly to your students and a librarian
Do Discuss plagiarism with your students
Do Encourage students to make use of the reference desk
Do Try out the assignments yourself to make sure it can be completed realistically

Don'ts:
Don't Give students incomplete or incorrect citations to sources you wish them to use. If you need a complete and accurate citation consult a librarian at 252-985-5350
Don't Limit research to a particular resource. Thirty students trying to use one or two books or journal articles is stressful for everyone, and shortens the lifespan of the resource.
Don't Arrange for scavenger hunts. Roaming around the library looking for trivia is not research and tends to promote learned helplessness.

Working together, instructors and librarians can develop assignments that are beneficial to students. If you would like know more or set up a time to collaborate with a librarian or if you would like to arrange a formal Library Instruction session, contact James Parrigin, 252-985-5233, jlparrigin@ncwc.edu.

*Adapted from UNC Wilmington's Randall Library, "Designing Effective Assignments". http://library.uncw.edu/web/research/topic/effective.html