Teacher Librarians a Tour de Force for Information Literacy in Hong Kong Schools

Abstract

The process of curriculum reform in Hong Kong schools has been an ongoing process since 1998. This reform has been largely driven by the catch phrase ‘learning to learn’ and has demanded a more student centered curriculum and pedagogy. Essential ingredients in this reform have been the demand for better qualified teachers, for IT savvy teachers, and for teachers and students who are able to effectively use information to solve problems. Perhaps not surprisingly, the teacher librarian and information services to schools were identified as key ingredients in the change process. Indeed, whereas a decade ago very few schools were equipped with a central library, today almost all schools have one. Likewise a decade ago few schools employed a teacher librarian where as today the post of teacher librarian is one of only two mandated positions in schools; the other being the principal. In addition, all newly appointed teacher librarians are required to complete a two year part time Diploma in Teacher Librarianship that is paid for by the employing authority (although participating teacher librarians face a modest course fee). Participating teachers are allocated time release to support their participation in the program.