A roadmap for implementing AASL B.II Create and Include into your library and lessons

The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) has outlined a set of core competencies in their Standards Framework for Learners. Two of these competencies are B.II, titled “Create” and“Include”. These competencies emphasize the importance of creativity along with inclusiveness and respect for diversity in the learning community. Figuring out how to incorporate these competencies can be confusing, so we’ve put together a roadmap that will not only help you understand exactly what these competencies mean, but how librarians and media specialists like you can incorporate them into your lessons.

Understanding the Competencies Create and Include

Before incorporating the competencies into lessons, it’s crucial to understand what they entail. The “Create”competency can vary depending on the context, but it can include articulating awareness of the contributions of other learners, adopting a discerning stance towards points of view and opinions expressed in the lesson, and describing understanding of cultural relevancy and placement within the global learning community. All of these foster an environment in which students can create original content, contribute to learning communities, and develop a nuanced understanding of diverse perspectives.

Key skills include creativity, innovative thinking, exploration, original content creation, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

The “Include” competency encourages learners to contribute a balanced perspective when participating in a learning community. It involves articulating an awareness of the contributions of a range of learners, adopting a discerning stance toward points of view and opinions expressed in information resources and learning products, and describing their understanding of cultural relevancy and placement within the global learning community.

Key skills include inclusiveness, respect for different values and perspectives, fairness and appreciation, fostering a sense of value amongst learners, and empathy.

Strategies for Incorporation

1. Diverse Resources

One of the simplest ways to incorporate this competency is by providing diverse resources. This includes books, digital resources, and multimedia from various cultures, perspectives, and languages. This exposes students to a wide range of viewpoints and helps them understand the value of diversity. Here are some ideas of how you can incorporate it into your library or lessons.

1. Books from Various Cultures: Books are a great way to expose students to different cultures and perspectives. For example, “I Am Malala” by Malala Yousafzai provides insight into the struggles of girls in Pakistan for education.
2. Digital Tools for Creation: Tools like Canva, Adobe Spark, and Google Slides can be used to encourage students to create original content. These tools are user-friendly and can be used to create presentations, infographics, videos, and more.
3. Collaborative Platforms: Platforms like Google Docs and Microsoft Teams allow for collaborative work. Students can work together on projects, fostering a sense of community and inclusiveness.
4. Online Databases: Resources like JSTOR and ProQuest provide access to a wide range of academic articles from various fields of study. This can help students understand different viewpoints and contribute to their own learning.
5. Language Learning Tools: Tools like Duolingo or Rosetta Stone can be used to expose students to different languages, fostering an appreciation for linguistic diversity.
6. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): VR and AR can provide immersive experiences, such as virtual field trips, that expose students to different cultures and environments.
7. Social Media: Platforms like Twitter or Instagram can be used (with proper guidance and digital citizenship lessons) to connect with diverse individuals and groups, fostering global awareness and empathy.

2. Collaborative Learning

Encourage collaborative learning activities that require students to work together and share their perspectives. This could be group projects, discussions, or peer reviews. Such activities promote empathy and tolerance for diverse ideas. Here’s what we suggest:

1. Group Projects: Assign a project where students have to work together to create something. This could be a presentation, a video, a website, or even a physical model. The key is to ensure that the project requires input and collaboration from all group members.
2. Peer Review: Have students create individual pieces of work, then swap with a partner for review. This not only helps students improve their own work but also exposes them to different perspectives and ideas.
3. Discussion Forums: Use online platforms to create discussion forums where students can share ideas, ask questions, and engage in debates. This can be particularly effective for topics that have multiple viewpoints.
4. Collaborative Writing: Use tools like Google Docs to facilitate collaborative writing. Students can work together to write a story, an essay, or a research paper. This not only fosters creativity but also encourages students to consider and incorporate diverse perspectives.
5. Role-Playing: Organize role-playing activities where each student is assigned a different character or perspective. This can help students understand and appreciate diverse viewpoints.
6. Virtual Exchange: Connect with a classroom in another country for a virtual exchange. Students can collaborate on projects, discuss global issues, and learn about different cultures.

3. Global Connections

With the advent of technology, connecting with learners from around the world has never been easier. Organize virtual exchange programs or collaborative projects with schools in different countries. This helps students adjust their awareness of the global learning community and interact with learners who reflect a range of perspectives. Some ideas you can try include:

1. Virtual Exchange Programs: Connect your classroom with a classroom in another country using video conferencing tools. Students can share their cultures, collaborate on projects, and learn from each other.
2. Global Collaborative Projects: Use online platforms to collaborate on projects with students from around the world. For example, students could work together to create a digital storybook that incorporates elements from their respective cultures.
3. International Guest Speakers: Invite guest speakers from different countries to share their experiences and perspectives with your students. This could be done virtually or in-person.
4. Pen Pal Programs: Establish a pen pal program with a school in another country. Students can exchange letters or emails, learning about each other’s cultures and lifestyles.
5. Global Issues Discussions: Facilitate discussions on global issues. This could involve researching the issue, discussing different perspectives, and brainstorming solutions.
6. Cultural Immersion Activities: Organize activities that allow students to experience different cultures. This could include cooking a dish from another country, learning a traditional dance, or celebrating a foreign holiday.

4. Reflective Activities

Include reflective activities in your lessons where students evaluate their own and others’ perspectives. This could be through journaling, discussions, or presentations. Reflective activities help students demonstrate empathy and equity in knowledge-building within the global learning community. Here’s more detail:
Journaling: Encourage students to keep a journal where they reflect on their learning experiences, challenges, and growth. This can be particularly effective after group projects or collaborative activities.

1. Peer Feedback: After group activities or presentations, have students provide constructive feedback to each other. This not only helps improve their work but also fosters empathy and understanding.
2. Self-Assessment: Provide students with rubrics or checklists to assess their own work. This can help them identify their strengths and areas for improvement.
3. Reflection Prompts: Give students prompts that encourage reflection. For example, “What is one thing you learned from a different culture today?” or “How did you incorporate diverse perspectives in your project?”
4. Class Discussions: Facilitate class discussions where students can share their reflections. This can be a safe space for students to express their thoughts, learn from others, and develop a deeper understanding of the topics.
5. Digital Portfolios: Have students create digital portfolios where they can showcase their work and reflect on their learning journey. This can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and assessment.

Conclusion

Incorporating the AASL Core Competency B.II: Include into library lessons is a powerful way to promote inclusiveness and respect for diversity. It not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares students to be empathetic and respectful members of the global community. Remember, the goal is not just to teach about diversity but to create an inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and heard.

If you enjoyed reading this article, browse our other AASL articles that cover A.I Think & Inquire, and C.III Share & Collaborate or take a look at the menu on the right 🙂

References

American Association of School Librarians

Children collaborating

Children working together

Children online

Child journalling