• Libraries
  • Quick Links
  • For Students
  • eResources
  • Ask a Librarian
  • Tutorials
  • For Teachers
  • TAFE Western Libraries
• Online Resources
• Trainees and Apprentices
• Aboriginal Education
• Counselling and Careers
• Disability Support Services
• Outreach Services
• Student Guide
• Learning Guides
• Careers Connect
• Scholarships
• Multicultural Services
• Online Tutoring

Library Assistance for Teachers

Library staff are here to support the teaching and learning needs of staff and students.

Designing Assignments

A well-designed assignment is an excellent teaching tool and can help students develop research skills, critical thinking skills, and subject knowledge.

Assignment Tips

• Know your students
  Many students have minimal knowledge of the library, and will rely on the web for research.

• Clarity of the assignment
  Describe the specifics of the assignment -- length, citation format, acceptable types of sources -- in writing. Let you students know the purpose of the assignment. Make sure that students understand all the steps required to complete the assignment.

• Try your assignment
  Put yourself in your student's shoes and do your assignment. Is the time frame reasonable for the amount of work? Are the sources readily available?

• Define web resources
  If you plan on limiting your student's use of web sources make sure to clarify what you mean by a "web source." Does it mean ALL information delivered via the web including e-journals and other web-based library sources or just "free" web sites found using search engines.

• Discuss plagiarism with your students
  Discuss the importance of integrity in writing. Be sure your students understand the range of plagiarism and the importance of citing sources.

• Help your students
  If students will be required to do library research, consider booking a library workshop. The workshop will introduce students to research strategies and tools needed for the assignment. Encourage your students to get library help.

How the Library Can Help

• Work with your librarian
  Your librarian can help you design an effective assignment

• Book a library workshop for your class
  A workshop can introduce students to research strategies, evaluating resources and using databases and the web.

• Place materials on reserve
  Material that will be in high demand for an assignment should be placed on reserve to ensure access to all students.

Alternatives to an Essay

• Compile an annotated bibliography
• Create a research pathfinder
• Create a poster on a topic
• Find facts to support or contradict an editorial
• Evaluate a web site

Selecting and ordering Library resources

Library staff rely on the knowledge of teaching staff to help select appropriate library resources.

If you would like to recommend a book, magazine or audio visual resource for purchase please contact the library. You can also complete the Recommend for purchase form (28 kB) and submit to your local library.