Training Staff Where They Are: Using a Blend of Teaching and Assessment Methods

Abstract

Ongoing training for staff in Access Services is difficult, especially when you have seasonal, part-time workers, 2 libraries and shift work hours in an environment where service points must be covered during operational hours. Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops BC, Canada has come up with an innovative way to have ongoing training for staff without sacrificing service or incurring extra cost with ‘all-staff’ workshops, which are impossible to arrange. Our pilot project on training Access Services staff for ready reference involves three modes of training: one on one training at the service desk, power point instruction that includes quizzes and quick tips; and lastly, instructional videos that can also be viewed during working shifts. By having three types of instructional methods we are able to reach a wide range of learning styles and have opportunities for practice and retention, with surveys to receive feedback. Staff will be measured before and after on knowledge, speed and skill.