As libraries, we have the opportunity to be connected learning hubs in our communities. This workshop introduces participants to the core concepts of Connected Learning.  Participants explore the principles of Connected Learning and how to connect Connected Learning theory to practice.

Workshop Outcomes

Participants will:

• Dive into youth voice & choice

• Understand the philosophy of Connected Learning as it relates to educational and career opportunities

• Explore the principles of Connected Learning

• Think about how to operationalize Connected Learning theory into practice

Join facilitators Donna Throckmorton and Zack Garcia as we explore the needs of the teens we serve and how to apply Connected Learning theory into your existing programs.

Teen Librarian, Zachary Garcia has been at the Camp Verde Community Library since 2017. Zack’s contagious enthusiasm and outgoing personality conveys his interest in supporting teens. This enthusiasm will facilitate a positive learning environment for library staff. Zach continues to seek opportunities to expand his own professional development attending two YA Summits, a NASA in Your Library training, and several other professional developmental workshops.

Donna Throckmorton is the library services consultant with the Arizona State Library. As a Library Services Consultant at the Arizona State Library, Donna provides consulting to library staff to libraries across Arizona. With over 20 years of library experience Donna brings an understanding from both the rural and urban library perspective to support libraries in the areas of early literacy, summer reading, community engagement and youth services.

Transforming Teen Services with Connected Learning was developed by YALSA and is aimed at improving competencies for library staff serving teens and are part of the YALSA/COSLA IMLS funded Transforming Teen Services: A Train the Trainer Approach (T3) project.