Comparing other views of the TL role.

Purcell uses the term Media Specialist to describe the TL. She sees the library as the hub of the learning community ... I think many passionate TL's would agree !!! I do !! She feels the Media Specialist has a wide variety of roles - Leader, Instructional Partner, Information Specialist, teacher and Program Administrator. These strengthen the whole community.Just as student achievement is measured, she believes the Media Specialist  must prove their worth by showing how their roles actually support student achievement.
As a leader, we must be actively part of the daily functioning of the school, leading library media activities. We must be our own advocates to show how critical we are in the life of our school. What a bold step I saw this as. However on reflection, I can see our library leader as one who does this ! She is passionate about our library, our services and our role and does stand up and declare this ... politely but firmly. It is her vision that leads us, and I am excited to see these parallels.
As an Instructional Partener, it depends I believe on the school. If the boss is behind the library vision, great. If he/she has a different vision... well, this is difficult. Luckily we have great support. I feel collaboration with teachers is for some, a huge leap. Again if we promote it, it may have a better chance. I think in my school we do this on individual levels, with willing teachers. It is something I am working on with the teachers I come into direct contact with, but at this stage my role is specifically as RFF for the teachers. I would love to partner with them in other ways, but little steps.
As an Information specialist .... I try not to laugh about myself her !! We have 3 awesome IT staff who are whizz bang !! I am trying desperately to improve on a rapid scale my IT, but again it is little steps, as much as my brain can handle at a time !! Thanks to 3 wonderful girls,who try give quick tips !! ( aged 7 -11 !!) Thank you to CSU course for great tips, especially this course. I feel lots of learning in our first few weeks and can see the relevance and practical implications for assisting senior students with journal searches, storing info in folders.
I have quickly learnt and feel comfortable also asking students to show me things when I see them doing something I can't ... and they love to show me !!
Even after being a teacher for over 23 years , applying effective teaching strategies and techniques is always something to be aware of. Finally, the last role, program administrator. Purcell discusses the needs of the school community in regard to media and equipment. Another area I am trying to work on, as this I feel is a weakness for me.We have specific staff who take on this role at our school, but I feel keeping a hand in is vital as you never know when you will be called on !
Lots to ponder !!!