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The Problem
The Problem
Minimal Access to CPD
Minimal Access to CPD
The problem is the accessibility to continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities. CPD is defined as learning activities that further develop professional skills (Litera Centre, 2021). There are various learning strategies for CPD, for example, work-based, self-directed, or formal education. For librarians, the problem is two-fold, one being the time factor. It isn't easy to schedule the time to attend professional development activities when short-staffed or given additional tasks. With the advancement of digital technology, their responsibilities have increased. Their engagement is now online and face-to-face. Furthermore, they are expected to develop or participate in digital projects for the library or key stakeholders.
The other problem is the decrease in funding for professional development. The range for professional development can be from 400$-2000$ CAD (Kumaran, 2019, p. 8). This is often contingent upon the negotiations at the time of hiring or the allotted amount for yearly professional development. However, attending national or particularly international conferences can use all funding. And the remaining cost will have to come out of pocket.
MicroLib IS the Solution
MicroLib IS the Solution
MicroLib facilitates the opportunity for continuing professional development at their own pace. Microlearning is defined as " complex topics broken down into short-form, stand-alone units of study to be studied at learner's convenience Content can take many forms, from text to full-blown interactive multimedia, but should always be short" (Andriotis, 2018).
The app provides micro-courses that the user can take from any device and anywhere at their own pace.
MicroLib has an entire library of micro-courses which are categorized into the following main subjects:
Strategic planning and Leadership
Inclusivism and Community Outreach
Teaching and Learning
Educational Technology
Using the app builds skills and knowledge that allows librarians to succeed in their career. MicroLib facilitates upskilling or learning new topics of interest. As librarians, we want to provide excellent service and support to our patrons. However, we need to access relevant resources such as MicroLib to achieve that goal. Therefore, CPD is vital, and the need for just-in-time information. So MicroLib is designed to accommodate both.
The Design
The Design
MicroLib is a subscription-based application with a free plan option.
The overarching topics have micro-courses broken down into 7-10 modules. The curriculum content is a mixture of micro-lectures, podcasts, videos, gamification, reading material, and quizzes.
MicroLib offers micro-courses designed explicitly for librarians working in the following four sectors: public, school, higher education, or special libraries. The librarian chooses the library type and then the relevant micro-course.
To attain certification and a digital badge, learners must complete an entire course.
Micro-courses curriculum content is reviewed quarterly to ensure information is current.
Librarians have the option to view a specific module for just-in-time information. This can be done by downloading content such as videos or reading materials.
Professionals are available for scaffolding if needed by the learner.
The app is accessible on all devices, and learners can access material offline as the platform is cloud-based.
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