Teaching to Individual Differences in Science and Engineering Librarianship: Adapting Library Instruction to Learning Styles and Personality Characteristics

Applies learning styles and personality characteristics to science and engineering library instruction. After introducing the idea that individuals tend to choose college majors and occupations in alignment with their learning style and personality characteristics, the book presents background on the Kolb Learning Styles model, the 16 PF (Personality Factor) framework, and the Big Five/Narrow Traits personality framework. It then reviews extant knowledge on the learning styles and personality characteristics of scientists, engineers, and librarians.

Next, the book considers general approaches to the personalization of instruction to learning styles and personality characteristics, opportunities for such personalization in science and engineering library instruction, and science and engineering librarian attitudes towards, and approaches to, this type of personalization of instruction.

Best Publication Award - ASEE Engineering Library Division

Considers teaching and individual differences within science and engineering librarianship.

Offers a balanced and critical account of the adaptation of library instruction to learning styles and personality characteristics.

Cites the dynamic instruction/adaptive teaching literature.

Discusses opportunities and suggestions for incorporating personalization into science and engineering library instruction.