I think having a broader understanding of the information landscape (IL) is important as it is the space in which we work, live and socialise. We need to not just have an understanding of the IL itself but also of how we fit into, interact with, and affect it. Furthermore, we need to view ourselves as a resident of the IL rather than a visitor; it as it is such a common and intertwined part of our lives that it cannot be escaped. This is even more true for a teacher librarian (TL).
Failing to consider the IL in relationship to my role as a TL would ultimately lead me to fail that role. The IL is such a fluid and dynamic space that it presents a real challenge for TL’s to stay up to date with current information and how best to disseminate that information to both students and teachers. I think that as the IL changes, so must a TL if we hope to stay relevant and useful.
As a TL, if I ignore or simplify the importance of the IL, how can I hope to teach students to navigate it in a meaningful and critical way?