The cataloging laboratory: The active learning theory applied to the education of catalogers

The active learning theory as a teaching method applied to traditionally taught classes could be instrumental in producing a more productive learning enviroment for students. It provides a balance between theory and practice and requires that students be inquirers, creators and receivers of knowledge. Library education is one area which would profit from active learning due to the dual importance of theory and practice. Within library education, those courses whose knowledge is based around techniques and skills would benefit the most from the active learning concept. One of these courses is cataloging. The following article shows how a laboratory enviroment, based on the active learning theory, can be successful in teaching cataloging and thereby better prepare students to enter the work enviroment.