The Ashton Speaker Series returns this spring with an exploration into the world of neuroscience and its implications for information literacy. Hosted by The University of New Mexico, the series features distinguished speaker Troy A. Swanson, Teaching & Learning Librarian and Library Department Chair at Moraine Valley Community College.
The Ashton Lecture, An Orgy of Utter Chaos: How the Feeling of Knowing helps us Recast Information Literacy, is set for Tuesday, April 16, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Willard Reading Room in Zimmerman Library. This lecture delves into the complexities of how students understand and incorporate information sources. Swanson challenges conventional notions of rationality and critical thinking, shedding light on how unconscious mental processes influence decision-making. Attendees will gain valuable insights into reshaping information literacy practices in the classroom to align with emerging understandings from psychology and neuroscience.
Following the lecture, participants are invited to deepen their understanding through the Ashton Workshop, Reflective Paths & Meditative Insights: Potential Avenues to the Feeling of Knowing. Taking place on the same day from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Frank Waters Room in Zimmerman Library, this interactive workshop offers an opportunity to explore the interplay between reason, feeling, and context in information literacy. Facilitated by Swanson, attendees will engage in reflective practices inspired by Mercier and Sperber's theories on reasoning and insights from Buddhist meditative traditions.
Registration for the workshop is free but limited to 25 participants. Interested individuals are encouraged to secure their spot promptly at goto.unm.edu/ashton24.
About the Speaker
Troy A. Swanson brings a wealth of expertise to the Ashton Speaker Series. As an accomplished author and educator, Swanson's work has earned accolades, including the Ilene F. Rockman Publication of the Year Award from ARCL’s Instruction Section. His extensive research in information behavior and technology policy management has positioned him as a leading voice in library science. Swanson's commitment to excellence extends beyond academia, as evidenced by his recognition through various teaching and innovation awards.
The Ashton Speaker Series, supported through a donation from Marjorie Whetstone Ashton, brings together scholars, researchers, and thought leaders to explore cutting-edge topics in academia and beyond. The series aims to promote interdisciplinary dialogue.
