Review of myself against ALIA’s Foundation Knowledge, Skills and Attributes relevant to Information Professionals working in Archives, Libraries and Records Management. 

Knowledge of the broad context of the information environment 

At present, I believe I have a sound, still developing knowledge of the broad context of the information environment. I feel confident in my ability to respectfully acknowledge, learn about and understand the important contribution of our first peoples, and have a deep understanding of the historic context in which information management exists. However, I have much to learn in the realms of information storage and description, analysis and interpretation, partnerships, and how the TL role aligns with government and coporate goals and values.

The purposes and characteristics of information architecture, organisation and access

Over the years I believe my knowledge on this topic has developed to a significant extent. I understand the theories behind information practice and management, and how I can analyse user needs to ensure their needs are being met, using my knowledge of information flow. I have already begun to source and manage records and collections to ensure collections are reliable and accessible with Oliver, and my current enrollment in ETL505 wil help me in building this knowledge. However, there are opportunities still to strengthen my knowledge of collaboration with technology service providers, as well as the deeper complexities of information management.

Processes and practices relating to information management

Developing and applying metadata was a foreign concept to me at the start of this year. My work so far in ETL505 has started me on my learning journey to understand this concept of information management, the completion of which I feel will see vast improvements here for me. Providing and facilitiating access to free information in a range of media and formats is a goal I have previously identified as wanting to work towards, and I and making very slow progress towards it. For example, I have worked with my principal and IT specialist in my school to arrange for access to a bank of 20 iPads for students to use, and have begun to compile a list of free applications to enrich student learning. The first app I requested was the NSW AECG Languages App, to provide students with an opportunity to learn local Gamilaraay language. This is a goal I am excited to continue persuing.

Management of records and collections is an area I need improvement in. Weeding is one area I am begining to work towards developing my skill and knowledge, which is a necessary requirement for a quality relevant collection. I would like to engage in more collection evaluation in order to effectively manage it, and would like to refine and make more transparent the metadata used in my school and local library.

Information sources, services and products 

I have already begun to research and explore how information is sought and used, as well as the value of current collections. The result of this research led to the genreficition of our fiction collection in our central school. However, I believe there is more room for improvement in this field to improve the library services offered, as well as marketing opportunities to educate our users on what services and products are available.

General employability skills 

Areas I feel confident in:

• Critical, reflective and creative thinking
• Customer service
• Digital literacy to manage and use multiple technologies
• ICT application
• Problem-solving
• Research methods
• Risk assessment
• Self-direction and management
• Training and development

Areas I believe I need to improve my skills in:

• Business analysis and audit
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Development of governance and information frameworks
• Ethical standards and social responsibility
• Financial and budgetary management
• Human resource management
• Information and statistical analysis, manipulation and dissemination
• Leadership and mentoring capabilities
• Marketing
• Partnership and alliance-building
• Project management
• Supervisory