Gilchrist, D., & Oakleaf, M. (2012). An Essential Partner: The Librarian’s Role in Student Learning Assessment (NILOA Occasional Paper No.14). Urbana, IL: University for Illinois and Indiana University, National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment.
ABSTRACT: The authors argue that librarians, both independently and in partnership with other stakeholders, are systematically and intentionally creating learning outcomes, designing curriculum, assessing student achievement of learning goals, using assessment results to identify practices that impact learning, and employing those practices to positively impact student experience. Focusing on information literacy as a student learning outcome, Gilchrist and Oakleaf begin by outlining ideas behind information literacy and how it connects with general education, credit course, and discipline outcomes. Librarians can contribute to information literacy and subsequent learning in a variety of ways that can be documented through surveys, standardized tests, and other methods. Examples are provided throughout of how institutions have developed student learning assessment processes. Gilchrist and Oakleaf conclude with possible challenges and solutions of librarians engaging in student learning assessment and contributing to overall student success.
