The professional education program provides evidence that Library Science certification candidates complete a program of studies in Library Science the same as the academic content area courses and required electives of a major in a bachelor’s or master’s degree. The program shall require the candidates to demonstrate a knowledge of the fundamental concepts of library science utilized in teaching K-12 grade students including:
II. Performances
The professional education program provides evidence of the candidates participation in sequential and developmental field experiences and student teaching, under the supervision of college personnel and cooperating teachers who are well trained, have interpersonal skills and demonstrated competence in performing the duties of a school librarian. (Candidates that possess an initial Instructional certificate shall be required to complete the required competencies in lieu of student teaching.) The program also provides evidence that the criteria and competencies for exit from the Library Science certification program are assessed in coursework, field experiences and student teaching and require the candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and competence in fostering student learning through multiple instructional methodologies including:
- Planning of instruction based upon knowledge of subject matter, students, the community and Pennsylvania Academic Standards which promote problem analysis, creativity and decision-making skills
- Managing the instructional environment in order to:
- create a climate that promotes fairness,
- establish and maintain rapport with students,
- communicate challenging learning expectations to each student,
- establish and maintain consistent standards of classroom behavior,
- make the physical environment safe and conducive to learning
- Implementing, adapting and assimilating effective instructional strategies, curriculum resources and technologies in collaboration with other educators in order to develop students’ abilities for locating, understanding, evaluating, and synthesizing information
- Selecting, analyzing and modifying instructional materials to meet the learning needs and reading levels of diverse learners
- Monitoring students’ understanding and awareness of library services and resources through a variety of means, providing feedback to students to assist learning, adjust instructional strategies and improve library services III.
III. Professionalism
The professional education program provides evidence that Library Science certification candidates demonstrate knowledge and competencies that foster professionalism in school and community settings including:
- Professional organizations, publications, resources, and plans for professional development
- Integrity and ethical behavior, professional conduct as stated in
Pennsylvania’s Code of Professional Practice and Conduct for Educators; and local, state, and federal laws and regulations
- Collaboration with school colleagues, higher education, and other community organizations to enhance and expand library services
- Communicating effectively with parents/guardians, other agencies and the community at large to support learning by all students