UCLA Library instructors guide students through all stages of the research process, from forming a research question to finding and evaluating sources to putting together a bibliography. We collaborate with instructors, in advance, to meaningfully incorporate library instruction into courses by scaffolding their syllabi and assignments.
The following guidelines have been developed to create an effective learning experience for students; please review them as you make your instruction request. For additional information and explanation, our complete Library Instruction Guidelines are available for your review.
Request an Instruction Session
Request a library instruction session using our service portal. To use the service portal, you'll have to create an account or use an existing account from one of our other services, such as CLICC Resource Reservations, Lux Lab services, and Data Science Center requests.
If you have any issues or would prefer not to create an account, email requestinstruction@library.ucla.edu.
Request an Instructional Consultation
How can you inspire your students to get started on their own paths of inquiry and discovery? What sources, tools, and strategies can you provide to students as they learn to conduct research in the digital age? How can you get ideas for new ways to teach the research process?
UCLA Library staff with expertise in the research process, instructional design, academic subject areas, and information-access are available to consult with you on:
- selecting research and learning materials for courses and developing online research guides;
- enhancing syllabi to scaffold the research, writing, and creative process;
- developing research assignments;
- using new technologies and learning spaces to support research and learning;
- offering individual and small-group consultations with instructors and students;
- reviewing student research proposals and suggesting research strategies and resources;
- creating and teaching for-credit adjunct courses that develop student research skills;
- discussing faculty research projects and new curricula.
To learn more, submit a request through our online service portal or contact us at requestinstruction@library.ucla.edu.
Library Instruction Guidelines
Provide a Minimum of Two Weeks' Notice When Scheduling Instruction
Appropriate notice allows the course instructor and library instructor to work as partners to develop a high-quality learning experience for your students.
Library Instruction Will Correspond with an Assignment and/or Learning Outcome(s)
Library instruction sessions are most effective when tied to a research assignment and focused on key learning outcomes. View our guide on writing library learning outcomes if you need assistance or ideas.
Schedule Library Instruction After the First Two Weeks of the Term
Experience shows that instruction sessions are more effective when students have a shared understanding of the topic area and subject knowledge of the course.
Course Instructor Will Be Present for the Duration of the Session
Students are more engaged when the course instructor participates in the session.
Share Course Materials with the Library Instructor
Course instructors should share course materials, including assignment guidelines and syllabi. Please provide these materials when submitting your library instruction request.
Planning to Send Students to the Library?
Please notify your library instructor or RequestInstruction@library.ucla.edu of any upcoming assignments which require students to seek out library assistance or other research assistance.
All instructional requests will be considered. However, instructors should adhere to these guidelines when possible.
