Having an understanding of the vast information landscape is important for everyone not just Teacher Librarians.

With advances in technology and the way in which we function in society, things are definitely changing and will only continue to change. I’m not too sure if this change is being driven by technology itself, or society. If we look around our local surroundings, whether it be at a child’s swimming lessons, a teenage party, grocery store, café, or school, it is hard not to see, some form of technology in use. The purpose for which the technology is being used, (socialisation, education, or an everyday operating system) is irrelevant. The fact of the matter is, we are a society that is reliant on technology. These days people don’t feel comfortable without having a mobile phone in their hand, the need to be constantly connected to social media, one to one devices in classrooms are places where we can see this reliance developing. Things that existed in the past, a paper invitation, and dare I say it, communication by physically speaking to another person are becoming obsolete. People rely and interact with technology daily, maybe because they have to or maybe because they want to.

As I delve into the topic of ‘The information Society,’ my eyes are being opened and connections are being made on how Teacher Librarians are a necessity to help assist and build 21st Century learners, students who can problem solve, think critically, and navigate through information. Firstly Teacher Librarians need to be current and up to date with the information landscape formats and delivery methods. The sheer mass of information that exists, the rate in which it is produced and the authenticity of it, highlights the of importance of teaching students how to effectively filter and access it. Equipping students with digital skills and teaching digital technology so that they are able function and operate in the information environment, are just some of the reasons why it is important for us to have an understanding of the information society.