The Capturing Connected Learning in Libraries (CCLL) project addresses the urgent and growing national need for evaluation approaches that reflect a new emphasis in libraries on digital, networked, and production-centered content, spaces, and programming. As leading specialists in assessment and evaluation in informal settings, we have developed and tested instruments for measuring connected learning that can be used for both improving services and demonstrating their value (http://researchtools.dmlhub.net). Libraries need evaluation resources (e.g., plans and tools) that help develop and improve their connected learning programming and document critical outcomes for youth participants. Such resources should be adaptable to reflect the variations in program populations (e.g., youth of different ages and backgrounds), focus (e.g. digital arts, programming), and lengths (e.g., pop up, drop in, longer term).
In this mini workshop, we will introduce the CCLL project and provide two sets of practical evaluation tools that can be used for pop-up, drop-in, and longer-term Connected Learning-focused programs in libraries. Specifically, the examples we will present are being developed for science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) programs. For example, one of our partner libraries is interested in understanding the ways in which their youth and adult patrons use various technologies in their programming space; thus, some tools for evaluating this include “talk-back boards” and prompted photography to capture patrons’ experiences. In addition, short (2-3 min) post-session surveys of patrons will provide additional documentation of patrons’ experiences of Connected Learning key learning outcomes (e.g., peer support, interest powered). In the second half of the session, we will work with small groups to get feedback on the tools and help participants think about how to use these kinds of tools in their settings. We will give participants some tools to try out right away and ask for feedback on how well they might work as practical tools in their Connected Learning Settings. We will make these tools freely available online.