New set of InfoSkilled librarians undergo training of trainers
The University Library conducted the InfoSkilled Training of Trainers: ILLUMINATE (InfoSkilled Librarians Leading Unparalleled Mastery in Instruction, Navigating Audience and Transformative Excellence) on July 16-19, 2024 at the CVM Lecture Hall, CVM/IAS Communal Building.
The training, which is part of the User Education and Training Series program of the University Library, aimed to equip and empower the new batch of InfoSkilled librarians with the necessary skills in delivering lectures and presentations through effective communication, facilitation, and organization techniques.
Dr. Mary Ann M. Ingua, the university librarian, gave the opening remarks and welcomed 27 librarian-participants from the Main Library (ML) and unit libraries to the training.
She highlighted the value of collaborative participation and expressed excitement about the discussions and valuable knowledge that would emerge from the training.
On the first day, Ella Marie S. Daradar, a college librarian at the ML’s General References and Information Services Section, discussed practical tips for overcoming nervousness and confidence-building strategies in public speaking.
Daradar emphasized the importance of relaxation techniques, embracing fears, being and trusting oneself, honing skills, and envisioning success in overcoming nervousness in public speaking.
Sarah Jane B. Pomay, a head librarian at the CFNR Library, discussed speech organization, highlighting the speech structures.
Participants learned how to capture the listener’s attention by formulating a strong introduction using anecdotes, quotes, questions, statistics, or brief stories and powerful conclusions.
They applied their learnings by formulating a strong introduction and powerful conclusion on their chosen topics.
On Day 2, Maria Victoria Altiche, a college librarian at the ML’s University Archives and Knowledge Repository Section, discussed how to deliver effective lectures using verbal and nonverbal communication.
She facilitated an activity called “communication origami,” where participants closed their eyes and followed verbal instructions to fold and tear portions of a sheet of paper. This exercise vividly demonstrated the crucial role of clear and effective communication.
She highlighted the critical role of language, vocal variety, eye contact, gestures, posture, facial expressions, and attire in delivering impactful lectures.
Afterward, an insightful session on enhancing lecture delivery through the strategic use of visual aids was provided by Christine G. Balmes, a college librarian at the ML’s Cataloging and Classification Section.
She explained key principles of visual design, offered practical tips for creating visual aids, and highlighted the importance of well-designed visuals in enhancing the effectiveness of lectures.
A session on the essential knowledge and skills for effective facilitation was highlighted on Day 3 by Pius S. Murillo, another college librarian at the ML’s Electronic Resources and Multimedia Services Section.
He discussed the multifaceted role of a facilitator, outlining various techniques to enhance group interactions and foster productive discussions.
Murillo introduced tools and resources designed to support and streamline the facilitation process. His session equipped participants with practical skills and valuable insights to become more effective facilitators.
Renz C. Cao, the former chair of the InfoSkilled Program, introduced the program to the new InfoSkilled librarians. He provided a detailed overview of the program’s components, offering an in-depth explanation of its modules and how they interconnect to build a comprehensive skill set.
After each session, participants moved into breakout groups for coaching time to help them prepare for the final presentation of their lectures scheduled on the last day of the training.
On the final day of the training, the new InfoSkilled Librarians delivered their lectures, each aiming to demonstrate a thorough mastery of the concepts and skills they had acquired throughout the training.
Five participants received the Best Speaker Award for their outstanding presentations, while four were given special awards for their exceptional contributions.
The Best Presenter Awards were given to Renz C. Cao, Julie Ann G. Soretes, Jeanybeth D. Casa, Marliza A. Cuadli, and Marjorie E. Aguinaldo for their exceptional presentation skills.
Lyjhey V. Flora was awarded Best in Audience Engagement while Marjorie E. Aguinaldo won Best in Visual Aids. Marliza A. Cuadli was named Most Improved Presenter and Julie Ann G. Soretes received the Best in Impromptu Speaking Award.
Gladys Joy S. Domingo, chair of InfoSkilled: Training of Trainers, concluded the event by extending gratitude to the participants, the speakers, and everyone who contributed toward implementing the training.
She expressed confidence that the new set of InfoSkilled librarians will do their very best in delivering lectures and presentations to foster a culture of lifelong learning. Lorrr D. Hidalgo served as the emcee for the training. (Gladys Joy S. Domingo)
