Discussion 1: Definitions

Discussion 1: Definitions

After completing my discussion, hot topic question, making responses, reading classmates postings, and commenting on the topic of definitions I have come to a realization.  The topic of definitions is not as boring as it first sounds like it should be.

Definitions provide us with a singular language in which we can express ourselves as TL’s and have knowledge that we understand each other and are on the same page.  In my discussion I talked about some of the definitions that I had never come across in my brief stint as a TL this year.  Most of the definitions were the acronym ones (OCLC, OPAC, and RLIN).  If we all understand the same language we then assert our authority as a knowledgeable sector of the teaching community. 

By having proper knowledge of terms we can then teach this language to our students and staff that we interact with.  Jody made a great point In her discussion on definitions stating “. I would think it is immensely important not only to guide the students to the information, but also ensure they understand the process in which they got there and what the steps/resources are called in order to refer to and duplicate the process later.”  If we have an understanding and the authority  behind our words and practices we can impart them to those around us and enable them to take full advantage of the library resources, the TL and all of our resources.

Definitions seem like a boring topic, there is so much more to it than just words, it’s the meaning behind the words.