| Purpose. As the role of the school library media specialist (SLMS) evolves, emphasis on instructional activities increases. SLMSs are charged with being information intermediaries--helping students and others define information needs, locate appropriate data, and use data effectively. The process used to accomplish this mission, however, had not been clearly described. The purpose of this study was to create a literature-based model identifying and describing components of the information intermediary process.; The study also addressed the following questions: Do SLMSs interact with students in all phases of the information search and use (ISU) process, or is their involvement limited to particular phases? To what extent can the information intermediary process be characterized by categories imported from other current instructional models?; Methods. Information intermediary process components were identified through an extensive review of the current literature of librarianship, learning theory, and instructional design. The information obtained was used to create a preliminary model which was submitted to a 15-member panel for expert review. Reactions of the experts to the model were reported as part of the study and provided guidance for refinement of the preliminary model.; Results. The Information Intermediary Process Model was the primary outcome of the study. The model consists of a grid formed by overlaying a representation of the generic ISU process with a three-phase instructional model borrowed from the current education literature. The instructing, coaching, and facilitating phases of the latter model are portrayed on a continuum ranging from intermediary-directed to student-directed. Within the grid, content and methodologies characterizing a wide range of information intermediary activities are described.; Conclusions. The planned instructional activities conducted by SLMSs and the unplanned assistance they give individual students can be systematically described within the framework of a single model. The model has potential for informing SLMS role descriptions and programs addressing the development of information skills. |
