Frequently
Asked Questions about Library Media Specialist
Certification and Distance Education
From: Bonnie Withers, SOIS
School Library Media Coordinator
bwithers@sois.uwm.edu
Is this the same as school library media
specialist?
Yes, school library media specialist, instructional
library media specialist, teacher librarian are
all titles for the same position in the school
teaching staff.
Can I get certified as an Library Media
Specialist through SOIS Distance Education?
There are two ways you can use our courses for
certification:
1) Use our courses to fulfill obligations in a
program you have established in your state through
a certifying body.
2) Complete the Wisconsin certification program
through UWM SOIS and apply for recognition of
this certificate in your state.
How do I find out what my state requires
for certification?
Consult your state’s department of education
webpage or consult an advisor in a nearby school
of education. Do not rely on information from
a practicing school librarian. Certification programs
are being revised all over the country and you
need current and accurate information. This website lists state by state requirements: http://www.schoollibrarymedia.com/cert/index.html
My state would certify me with a UWM
endorsement. What does that mean?
Usually, this endorsement means you have completed
all the requirements for certification in Wisconsin.
So, what are the main features of Wisconsin
certification for Library Media Specialist?
1) You need to follow a Masters program of coursework
(see website or catalog).
2) You need to create an electronic portfolio
demonstrating your competency in the seven standards
for Initial Library Media Specialist.
3) You need to be a licensed teacher or be eligible
for licensure by the time you apply for your initial
license.
I have a teaching license in my state.
Is that sufficient?
Yes, for your state. If you were to come to Wisconsin,
you would have to apply for an in-state license.
I don’t have a teaching license.
Will my work with SOIS lead to one?
No. These are two completely separate programs.
In effect, Wisconsin considers Library Media Certification
an add-on to an existing teaching license.
Does Wisconsin require the Praxis exam?
No, not for this license.
If my state requires Praxis, do I need
to take it?
Probably. This is a question for your own state’s
licensing body.
Would I have to do fieldwork?
Yes, your 200 hours of fieldwork would be supervised
through email, phone, and videoconferencing.
Do I need to come to UWM?
No, there is no residency requirement.
Are all courses leading to certification
available online?
At this point, one course, a graduate level course
on curriculum through the School of Education,
is the only one not available online. Students
needing this course can substitute a pre-approved
course found locally.
If I want to enter your program and work
toward Wisconsin certification, what do I need
to do?
In addition to your Graduate School application
and SOIS Grad application, you will need to apply
to the Post Baccalaureate program (simple form,
no fee). This application need not be submitted
until you are accepted into the Graduate Program.
I already have an MLIS. Can I take courses
toward certification through SOIS?
Yes. You need to apply as a non-degree graduate
student, stating certification as a reason for
your application.
Now I really have questions! Who can
I talk to?
Bonnie Withers, School Library Media Coordinator,
will be happy to field your questions. Please
email her at bwithers@sois.uwm.edu.
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