FAQs
How are courses offered?
The school library media courses are offered as stand alone courses that are aligned with the school librarian endorsement for Vermont educators, or as a strand within the College of Education and Social Services’ Master of Education program.
The six school library media courses are offered in a two year cycle, one per semester, and are delivered in a blended online format that is convenient for distance learners. Fall and spring courses follow the standard semester schedules at UVM. The summer courses vary in length during the summer semester schedule. The blended format includes at least four synchronous video conference sessions, supported through an online learning management system. The synchronous sessions are held on various Saturdays in Fall and Spring semesters, while the online environment is available 24/7.
Do I have to take courses in a particular order within the sequence?
The courses are designed to flow as a sequence from the overview course, EDLI 372 Managing and Leading School Library Media Centers. That course presents the context for the sequence, and introduces concepts of school librarianship and leadership that will be detailed in the other courses.
That being said, prospective students may enroll in the courses anytime during the two year cycle, and pick up the missing courses during the next cycle. Only one course, EDLI 373 Developing and Organizing School Library Media Collections requires prior completion of EDLI 372 or instructor permission.
Are there prerequisites for enrolling in the courses?
Prospective students must have successfully completed a Bachelor’s degree, as a minimum to enroll. Previous school library experience is a plus, but not necessary. Contemporary school libraries are technology centers, so basic technology skills are recommended. Word processing, publication, communication, and presentation skills are integrated within the online environment for the courses. Access to a computer with high speed internet and interactive communication capacity are critical.
Do I have to be a certified educator to take the courses?
The courses are designed for practicing educators who would like to add another endorsement to their educator license. For those who would like to change careers to the field of education and school librarianship, the courses provide knowledge and hands on experiences that, along with additional education coursework can lead to initial certification. Information about educator licensing in Vermont can be found on the Vermont Agency of Education website.
Is there an application process to enroll in the school library media courses
Currently, there is no formal application process for enrolling in the individual courses, unless the intent is to apply for the UVM Master of Education program. That process requires acceptance through the Graduate College. Further information is found on the CESS website.
The courses are available on a first come, first served basis for continuing and distance education students. The courses fill up quickly. Some seats are reserved for those who are in the MEd graduate program. Once a course has filled, permission may be sought from the instructor to be added to the course.
How do I register for courses?
The UVM Registrar’s website has the pertinent information for registering for courses online. You can find information about the courses to be offered by semester, how to get started with registration, and to find out the registration schedule.