Christy G. Keeler and Eric Langhorst
This article begins with a discussion of the need to integrate technology into K-12 social studies classrooms and continues by introducing and providing social studies-based…
Abstract
This article begins with a discussion of the need to integrate technology into K-12 social studies classrooms and continues by introducing and providing social studies-based examples of the Moersch Levels of Technology Integration (LoTi) framework. The authors argue that LoTi levels do not coincide with teachers’ needed technology skill levels. As a result, the article offers suggestions for encouraging adjustment toward greater technology-infused social studies instructional methods based on teacher skill level. Using text and tabular formats, the authors provide numerous technology integration methods for social studies teachers who are “Starting Out Easy,” “Taking the Next Step,” or “Beginning to Excel” with technology.
Children and teenagers are the future adult users of libraries, and how they are treated in our libraries, particularly school and public libraries, can cement lifelong memories…
Abstract
Purpose
Children and teenagers are the future adult users of libraries, and how they are treated in our libraries, particularly school and public libraries, can cement lifelong memories and habits in these young people. This paper aims to address this issue.
Design/methodology/approach
The following paper is a review of the literature on young people's, particularly teenagers’ use (or lack thereof) of libraries, the importance of library use and methods to encourage library use in young people.
Findings
Despite the findings from some of the literature that teenagers are less likely to visit libraries, there were many services and programmes in libraries that aim to reverse this trend.
Research limitations/implications
Some of the literature is peer‐reviewed, but selected pieces were written by librarians in the field about their interactions with young people in their libraries. Although the latter cannot be generalised to all young people, they are important in providing examples of what occurs in some cases and what might be replicated in other settings.
Originality/value
Encouraging young people to visit and enjoy libraries can be a rewarding experience and is important in creating the next generation of library users.
Details
Keywords
The purpose of this study was to investigate the #SSChat community's recognition of cohesion and shared learning goals within the #SSChat community. Specifically, the author…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to investigate the #SSChat community's recognition of cohesion and shared learning goals within the #SSChat community. Specifically, the author sought to gauge the #SSChat community's “sense of community (SOC) ” (e.g. measuring participants' perceptions of membership, influence, fulfillment of needs and a shared emotional connection related to the community) and sustainability (e.g. information contribution and consumption, self-disclosure and intention to leave the community). Additionally, the author aimed to examine “SOC” as a construct supporting the #SSChat community's sustainability.
Design/methodology/approach
This study employed a quantitative survey research design that was guided by McMillan and Chavis' (1986) SOC theoretical framework. The instrument included two reliable and valid surveys. Descriptive and inferential statics were used to investigate the three research questions.
Findings
Findings from this study highlight refinement and reinforcement areas framed using McMillan and Chavis' (1986) SOC theoretical framework to support the continued development and growth of the #SSChat as virtual learning community for social studies education professionals.
Originality/value
There is a dearth of research that investigates the dynamic underpinnings and foundations of informal virtual learning communities for social studies educators and whether they are sustainable. While this study is not the first to investigate the relationship between sustainability and SOC, it does extend previous research by evaluating the specific SOC tenets and their individual relationships to sustainability.