The Accidental Technology Trainer: A Guide for Libraries

Citation

Fourie, I. (2008), "The Accidental Technology Trainer: A Guide for Libraries", Online Information Review, Vol. 32 No. 5, pp. 695-696. https://doi.org/10.1108/14684520810914106

The Accidental Technology Trainer is an essential guide for library staff who (unexpectedly) finds themselves responsible for technology training. It aims at addressing the full spectrum of concerns that new trainers can face – as seen through the eyes of an experienced trainer who can still recall the numerous intricacies of training, ranging from dealing with different learning styles to the use of analogies.

The Accidental Technology Trainer consists of 11 chapters and four appendices. In the first chapter the concepts of trainer and accidental trainer are explained, as well as the types of training they need to address in libraries. Various training principles such as andragogy, constructivist learning, creating a learning community, etc. are explored in Chapter 2. Library technology training skills such as enthusiasm and attitude, social skills, self‐confidence, respect, planning skills, etc. are explored in Chapter 3. Gaining knowledge about library users is explored in Chapter 4, while Chapter 5 deals with learning interaction, Chapter 6 with creating and maintaining interest, and Chapter 7 with planning technology training. Chapter 8 deals with the organisation and design of workshops, Chapter 9 with the handling of difficult library training situations, Chapter 10 with best practices in library technology training, and Chapter 11 with ways of keeping abreast of new developments and sharing resources. The four appendices cover, respectively, a list of expert library technology trainers, trainer survey questions, references to training materials and sample workshop flyers, as well as references to web sites relevant to the various chapters. Many practical tips are included. The book concludes with a detailed 18‐page index. It also has an accompanying web site at: stephaniegerding.com/accidentaltechtrainer

The Accidental Technology Trainer is highly recommended to anyone required to take responsibility for training in the library context. Even experienced trainers can benefit from refreshing their knowledge of good training practices and new ideas.