The modern role of school libraries and librarians has changed dramatically in the last 30 years. Gone are the days of spaces being just repositories of books and Librarians being “walking Google searches” for titles! Today’s school libraries are now hubs of innovation and centers for fostering essential skills in students, including the ability to "Grow" and "Include." AASL's Core Competency D.II encapsulates these critical skills, emphasizing the development of a growth mindset and the promotion of inclusivity.
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed with how to implement these competencies, in this article, we will explore the significance of AASL's Core Competency D.II, with a specific focus on how to implement them in fun and engaging ways.
Understanding Core Competency D.II.
AASL's Core Competency D.II encompasses two core components: "Grow" and "Include." Let's delve into each of these components:
Grow: This component centers on nurturing a growth mindset in students. It encourages the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. "Grow" fosters a culture of perseverance, resilience, and a passion for learning.
Key Skills: Growth mindset, self-efficacy, perseverance, and adaptability.
Include: "Include" focuses on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the school library and beyond. It underscores the importance of creating an environment where all students feel valued, respected, and represented.
Key Skills: Cultural competence, empathy, respect, and inclusive practices.
Significance of "Grow" and "Include" in Education
Fostering a Growth Mindset: "Grow" instills in students the belief that their abilities are not fixed but can be developed with effort. This mindset leads to increased motivation and a willingness to take on challenges, ultimately resulting in greater academic and personal growth.
Empowering Learners: Both "Grow" and "Include" empower students to become active participants in their own learning. They learn that their voices matter, their unique identities are celebrated, and they have the potential to make a positive impact on their communities.
Building Resilience: "Grow" helps students develop resilience by teaching them that setbacks and failures are opportunities for growth. They learn to view challenges as learning experiences and bounce back stronger.
Cultural Competence: "Include" promotes cultural competence, preparing students to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world. It helps them appreciate and respect the richness of different cultures, perspectives, and experiences.
Inclusive Communities: The "Include" component encourages the creation of inclusive and welcoming spaces in school libraries. This, in turn, sets the tone for the entire school, fostering an atmosphere where diversity is celebrated and all students feel a sense of belonging.
Implementing AASL's Core Competency D.II - "Grow" and "Include"
To effectively implement AASL's Core Competency D.II, focusing on "Grow" and "Include," educators and librarians in school libraries can consider the following strategies:
Growth Mindset Workshops
Example: Organize workshops for students on the principles of a growth mindset. Use inspiring stories of famous individuals who overcame challenges through perseverance. Encourage students to set personal goals and track their progress, emphasizing the value of effort and continuous improvement.
Diverse Reading Collections
Example: Curate a diverse collection of books that represent various cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Create book displays and reading challenges that promote inclusivity and encourage students to explore perspectives different from their own.
Inclusive Library Programming
Example: Plan library programs that celebrate diversity and inclusion. Host events like cultural heritage months, where students can share their cultural traditions, stories, and foods. Invite guest speakers from different backgrounds to engage with students and broaden their horizons.
Student-Led Inclusivity Initiatives
Example: Empower students to take the lead in promoting inclusivity within the school library. Establish a student inclusivity committee that organizes events, suggests book acquisitions, and creates welcoming displays and posters.
Collaborative Projects
Example: Encourage collaborative projects that combine the principles of "Grow" and "Include." For instance, have students work together on projects that explore diverse topics, where they must adopt a growth mindset to overcome challenges and differences while learning from one another.
Enjoy learning about AASL standards? Read more here with Empowering minds with critical thinking: AASL A.I.
AASL's Core Competency D.II, with its focus on "Grow" and "Include," plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in school libraries. By fostering a growth mindset and promoting inclusivity, librarians and educators can empower students to become resilient, empathetic, and lifelong learners. "Grow" teaches them to embrace challenges and view setbacks as opportunities, while "Include" creates a nurturing environment where diversity is celebrated, ensuring that every student feels valued and represented. These competencies are not just skills; they are the foundation for creating a brighter and more inclusive educational future.
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