Many instruction librarians and other educators find themselves in the position of being assigned the task of teaching the Web in an hour or 50 minute session.

What to Teach in 50 Minutes ?

Here's a list of essential topics:

• Understanding URLs
• Search Engine Basics
• The Importance of Using Directories, Virtual Libraries, and Specialized Databases
• Guidelines for Evaluating Web Pages
• Citing Information

Be Prepared !

Doing this in 50 minutes means a good deal of preparation:

• Check that all the necessary equipment is present and in good working order.
• Develop a backup strategy.
• Develop a tightly structured presentation that's geared to the needs of your audience.
• Prepare and distribute handouts in paper form so the audience can concentrate on the presentation. These ought to include details of the presentation and a list of pertinent URLs.
• Make a glossary available.
• Be ready to laugh when things don't go as you've planned.