CEWIL Resource Hub: Field Placement at Saskatchewan Polytechnic

A placement manual provides students with information on learning outcomes, responsibilities, and the requirements associated with experience. In the first semester of the first year, students complete a 30-hour placement as an introduction to working in a library environment.

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Key success factors

Placements are hosted by a network of libraries that value student contributions and return each cycle.
Placement supervisors are engaged, support student learning through mentorship, and often go above and beyond to provide a quality experience.

Unique characteristics

Students can complete the placement out-of-province. The program has also helped Saskatchewan resident students attending institutions in other provinces complete their placement in Saskatoon.
The program is adding a capstone project in the next offering where students will complete an applied research project to solve a problem at their placement library.

Challenges

There are a limited number of libraries in Saskatoon, so students have to complete one placement in a different community. This creates a logistical challenge for some students who need to arrange short-term housing and transportation.
Students don't always understand that the placement experience is akin to a job. They have the technical skills to complete library tasks, but their professional skills could be improved.

Resources

Library and Information Technology

Key characteristics

Type: Field placement
Year program was established: 1969
Number of students per year: 24
Number of employers/partners per year: 10-15
Programs/academic disciplines participating: Library and Information Technology
Duration of experience: Two three-week, full-time placements, 105 hours each (210 total)
Submitted by: Chasity Berast

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