Program Overview
The University at Buffalo's School Librarianship MS program prepares individuals for the New York State Library Media Specialist certification. The 39-credit-hour program is offered online asynchronously and focuses on teaching information literacy, managing collections, and collaborating with educators. Graduates are equipped to lead dynamic school libraries that support 21st-century teaching and learning.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
The program aims to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to be effective 21st-century School librarians. The program focuses on teaching information literacy based on the latest research and best practices, including the Common Core Learning Standards and the Annual Professional Performance Review. Graduates of the program will be prepared to:
- Lead dynamic school libraries that support 21st-century teaching and learning
- Develop and deliver effective information literacy instruction
- Manage and curate digital and physical collections
- Collaborate with teachers and administrators to integrate technology and information literacy into the curriculum
- Advocate for the role of the school library in the educational process
Outline
The School Librarianship MS program consists of 13 courses totaling 39 credit hours. The courses are offered online asynchronously, allowing students to complete the program without relocating.
Following is the course list and descriptions:
Required Core Courses (24 credit hours)
- EDST 712: Foundations of Information Literacy and School Librarianship (3 credits)
- EDST 714: Technology and Information Access (3 credits)
- EDST 716: Curriculum Development and Integration of Information Skills (3 credits)
- EDST 718: Literature for Children and Adolescents (3 credits)
- EDST 720: The School Library Media Center and Its Resources (3 credits)
- EDST 722: Information Resources and Services (3 credits)
- EDST 724: Library Management (3 credits)
- EDST 726: Legal Issues and Ethics in School Librarianship (3 credits)
Elective Courses (15 credit hours)
- Choose five elective courses from the list below (15 credits):
- EDST 710: School Library Advocacy and Leadership (3 credits)
- EDST 728: Youth Literature and Digital Storytelling (3 credits)
- EDST 730: Digital Curation and Information Organization (3 credits)
- EDST 732: Teaching Research Skills in the Information Age (3 credits)
- EDST 734: Special Topics in School Librarianship (3 credits)
Assessment
The School Librarianship MS program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to measure student learning outcomes. These methods include:
- Formative assessments: These ongoing assessments are used to track student progress throughout the course and provide feedback on student learning.
- Summative assessments: These end-of-course assessments are used to measure student achievement of learning outcomes.
- Performance-based assessments: These assessments require students to demonstrate their skills and knowledge through real-world tasks and projects.
- Reflective writing: Students are required to reflect on their learning experiences throughout the program.
Specific examples of assessment methods used in the program include:
- Class discussions and participation
- Critical analysis of scholarly literature
- Development of information literacy instruction plans
- Creation of digital learning resources
- Performance-based assessments
- Reflective essays
- Teaching The School Librarianship MS program is taught by experienced faculty who are experts in their field. The faculty are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience and to helping them develop the skills and knowledge to be successful school librarians.
The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Interactive discussions
- Collaborative learning activities
- Case studies
- Independent study projects
Other
- The program is offered fully online, allowing for flexible scheduling and the ability to complete the program without relocating.
- The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
- Graduates of the program are eligible for professional certification as a school library media specialist in New York State.
Careers
Graduates of the School Librarianship MS program at the University at Buffalo are prepared to work as school library media specialists in K-12 schools. School library media specialists are responsible for managing school libraries and media centers, teaching information literacy skills, and providing students access to information and technology.
University at Buffalo
Overview:
University at Buffalo (UB) is a public research university located in Buffalo, New York. It is consistently recognized as one of the world's most exceptional and affordable universities, making it a top choice for students and faculty globally. UB is New York State's flagship university and is known for its commitment to research, innovation, and community engagement.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UB offers a vibrant campus life with over 400 student clubs and organizations. Students can enjoy Division I basketball games, kayaking on the on-campus lake, and a variety of other activities. The university encourages students to share their "True Blue" pride and wear blue on Fridays.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Exceptional Academics:
UB offers over 500 degree programs with world-renowned faculty.Research Opportunities:
As a top 40 public research university, UB provides students with opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and tackle complex challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Environment:
UB fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.Affordable Education:
UB is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable universities in the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UB offers a wide range of activities and opportunities for students to engage in both on and off campus.Academic Programs:
UB has 13 schools and colleges, including:
- Architecture and Planning
- Arts and Sciences
- Dental Medicine
- Education
- Engineering and Applied Sciences
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
- Law
- Management
- Nursing
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Public Health and Health Professions
- Roswell Park Graduate Division
- Social Work
Other:
UB is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its climate action efforts. The university has a 12:1 student/faculty ratio, providing students with personalized attention and support.
While the provided context details the School Librarianship MS program at the University at Buffalo, including its program description, requirements, instruction method, and contact information, it does not explicitly mention any entry requirements or language proficiency requirements for applicants. I am unable to provide a definitive answer regarding these aspects. To obtain accurate information on entry and language proficiency requirements, I recommend consulting the official program website or contacting the program directly.