This program will showcase a variety of approaches to teaching legal research outside of the traditional classroom, including drop-in workshops, topic-based sessions held in a dedicated library space, and co-curricular collaborations that meet students where they are. Presenters will highlight programming focused on emerging needs, including research for the NextGen Bar Exam, academic success strategies, and the ethical use of AI. Additionally, presenters will discuss the creation of asynchronous and on-demand learning materials like videos, podcasts, and online modules. Together, these initiatives provide multiple pathways for students to engage with research instruction, offering both scheduled and self-paced opportunities for skill development.

The program will explore the pedagogical benefits of these alternative teaching models, emphasizing how they expand access, foster informal learning, and strengthen student-librarian relationships. Panelists will discuss how such approaches align with adult learning principles, promote inclusivity by accommodating diverse learning preferences and schedules, and create more equitable opportunities for all students to build research competence. Participants will leave with strategies for designing, implementing, and assessing similar initiatives within their own institutions.

The program will open with brief case studies highlighting successful examples of alternative teaching, including the use of a dedicated instructional space for drop-in sessions and workshops, co-curricular collaborations, and new forms of outreach such as podcasts. A panel discussion will follow, analyzing the pedagogical benefits, logistical challenges, and assessment strategies of these methods. The program will conclude with a Q&A and an interactive brainstorming segment where attendees can share their own experiences and collaborate on ideas tailored to their institutions.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This program will benefit law librarians who teach legal research or provide instructional support, as well as outreach librarians, student services coordinators, and managers interested in building stronger connections with students. It will also appeal to librarians in institutions where curricular teaching opportunities are limited, and to anyone seeking creative ways to engage learners more inclusively.

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Participants will be able to explain the pedagogical benefits of offering legal research instruction outside of the traditional classroom and articulate how alternative teaching models promote inclusion and belonging by meeting diverse student needs and learning preferences.
2. Participants will be able to identify and design at least three types of alternative teaching opportunities that can be implemented within their own institutions. 
3. Participants will be able to develop a plan to create or enhance a dedicated instructional program or space that supports flexible learning on topics such as research for the NextGen Bar Exam and the ethical use of AI.

SPEAKERS:

• Anne Rajotte, UConn School of Law
• Andre Davison, Harris County Robert W. Hainsworth Law Library
• Katie Brown, Charleston School of Law

MODERATOR/COORDINATOR:

• Tanya Johnson, UConn School of Law

AALL BODY OF KNOWLEDGE DOMAINS: Teaching + Training

CANCELLATION AND OTHER POLICIES:

No refunds will be given for any purchased AALL conference recording. This applies to non-AALL members only as the recordings are free for AALL members.

The opinions shared during this program represent the views of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL). Recording, capturing, or using AI tools to duplicate, transcribe, or otherwise reproduce an AALL program in any form is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from AALL. This includes, but is not limited to audio, video, or any other content shared. By accessing an AALL recording, you agree to adhere to this policy.