The three main roles of the TL in Guided Inquiry are ‘resource specialist, information literacy teacher and collaboration gatekeeper’. ( Kuhlthau et.al., 2007, p.57 )

In terms of resource specialist, the TL “develops school library resources and provides Internet resources. ( Kuhlthau et.al., 2007, p.57 ) When the TL is specialized in resources and provides resource users with them, he/she can ensure students’ learning and teachers’ teaching.

The TL as information literacy teacher “teaches concepts for information access, evaluation, and use and fosters constructive learning environment.”. ( Kuhlthau et.al., 2007, p.57 ) TLs are information literacy teachers and help students and teachers to access, evaluate and use information well to meet the state and Australian Curriculum standards.

The role of the TL as collaboration gatekeeper is to coordinate a Guided Inquiry team and communicate with the learning community by keeping communication open and using flexible managerial skills. ( Kuhlthau et.al., 2007, p.57 ) TLs are able to implement a Guided Inquiry model when they work together with teachers in designing inquiry units of work and lesson plans.

In conclusion, TLs are ‘resource specialist, information literacy teacher and collaboration gatekeeper’ in Guided Inquiry.

Reference

Kuhlthau, C.C., Maniotes, K. L., & Caspari, K. A. (2007). Guided learning : Learning in the 21st century. Libraries Unlimited.