My main responsibility as the Instructional Technology Librarian at the Hawthorne Public Library is running a one-on-one tutoring program in which I teach patrons technology skills. This program had existed at the library prior to my employment. However I am told that it was never as popular before as it is now. I did not structure my program on the old version, which was drop-in only. It seems that asking patrons to sign up for lesson in advance has created more accountability for participants, and my sessions are frequently booked three to four weeks ahead of time.
The tutoring sessions are entirely customized to the student’s needs and many students return several times to continue their learning. I take notes during the session in order to keep a record of what we cover. This record serves as a reminder for me at the next lesson of where we left off at the previous session, and I give each student a copy of the notes so they can continue practicing out side of class.
Technology Tutor Sign Up Sheet [PDF]
Technology Tutoring Notes Sheet [PDF]
Most of my students are senior citizens who wish to communicate with far-off relatives or pursue interests and hobbies online. A smaller number are working professionals who wish to enhance their job skills with Excel and PowerPoint training. Some are out of work and looking to make themselves more marketable with technology skill development. I have helped students with everything from the Apple/Windows laptops to tablets and smartphones in every model and operating system. Most days are a surprise, and if a student asks me a question to which I do not know the answer, I find them the resources they need to find the answer themselves.
Ruth A. Quiles 