Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Introducing Learning Commons Functionality Into A Traditional Reference Setting, Jeffrey A. Franks

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

For the past decade the University Libraries at The University of Akron has been modifying and enhancing its services in response to changing technologies and user needs, as well as evolving campus strategies. Library efforts centered on service excellence and student success have played a leading role in the inclusion of a planned learning commons as one of the key strategic initiatives of the University. At this time the learning commons concept has been fully developed, while the proposed building renovation plan is underway. The Library, however, is utilizing key opportunities in the present to integrate learning commons functionality …

The Need For Subject Librarians In Ghanaian Academic Libraries, K. Agyen-Gyasi

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The rapid development of information and communications technology with its proliferation of information resources, pressures from the expanding higher education system, the rise in student numbers, and the new economic and administrative frameworks are posing greater challenges to professional librarians in Ghana. Currently, information can be found in different formats such as e-books, CD-ROM, online journals and other electronic databases, in addition to the traditional paper formats. The introduction of the International Network for the Availability of Scientific Publications supported e-resources project has opened up access to full-text e-journals, e-books, and other databases on the Web to the State …

New Liaison Librarians: Factors Influencing Confidence Levels And The Type Of Activities Undertaken, Ramirose Attebury, Sara Holder

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Although library literature related to liaison work is not uncommon, most of what has been written takes the form of advice to new liaisons or else describes liaison program implementation and evaluation. This study seeks to identify what types of activities liaison librarians are employing nationwide and what factors influence the decision to undertake these activities. It also investigates what factors affect self-reported confidence levels of new liaison librarians.

Distance Education Library Services Assessment, Judy Block

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The primary purpose of assessment in academia is to support high-quality learning. To accomplish this tracking, monitoring and documenting student activity is important to providing excellent library service. By gathering information on student learning, assessments can pinpoint areas for improvement. Ideally, assessment should be quantitative, qualitative, and ongoing and have the ability to address different skills. Assessment is most effective when based on faculty teaching and student learning. Outcomes assessments are the only credible assessment for the distant learner. They are necessary to improve student learning results and are a means of gathering information about student learning that is …

Subject Guides: Putting A New Spin On An Old Concept, Nedelina Tchangalova, Amanda Feigley

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The wide application of digital technologies in the library environment has changed the format and content of subject guides. Given the advent of new Internet tools and the explosive growth of electronic resources available on the Web, the reference librarians at the University of Maryland (UM) College Park were facing many issues when keeping up with new technologies and creating subject guides that meet library users’ satisfaction. The goal of this paper was to explore the challenges librarians are facing and to identify new technologies to assist them in creating subject guides. The literature revealed a wide variety of …

Partnering And Programming For Undergraduate Honors Students, Catherine Fraser Riehle

UNL Libraries: Faculty Publications

Purpose—This paper sets out to describe successful partnerships between Purdue University Libraries’ faculty and directors of undergraduate honors programs. By reporting the results and implications of these collaborations and sharing effective approaches for building new partnerships, the author hopes to provide ideas and suggestions for others considering similar collaborations and services.

Design/methodology/approach—During the 2006–2007 academic year, the Instructional Outreach Librarian at Purdue University, West Lafayette, began partnering with directors of honors programs and consequently implemented new services for undergraduate honors students. The paper cites examples, including one pilot program in particular—a research workshop for freshmen honors students in …

Teaching And Supporting Endnote At The University Of Tennessee: Designing Online Alternatives To High Demand Classes, Teresa B. Walker, Jane S. Row, Travis Dolence

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The University of Tennessee Libraries, like many libraries, has taken the lead on campus in teaching the use of bibliographic management software. One of the challenges of bibliographic instruction is conveying to the user that the instruction is relevant. The challenge we faced with bibliographic instruction for EndNote was somewhat different. Our users, mainly faculty and graduate students, did see the importance of our instruction to their research. The popularity of the classes created a demand that was difficult to meet by classroom instruction alone. We addressed this problem with the creation of an online tutorial that provides on-demand, …

Knowledge Management In Health Science Libraries, Mayank Trivedi

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Knowledge management in health science institutions is a major issue today. Health science professionals are routinely dealing with evidence-based medicine and problem-based learning. Health Science Librarian has a significant role in the decision making of clinical practice. The article focuses on the principles, strategies, components and barriers of knowledge management with special aspect in relation to Health Science Institutions.

Tiered Reference: The New Landscape Of The Frontlines, Susan Gardner

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Introduction

When one walks into a typical academic library today, he or she is hard-pressed to see a reference librarian in plain view working at a public services desk. The well marked “reference desk” of yore, staffed by a smiling librarian and once a staple of every traditional academic library, has evolved into a less visible, more amorphous facility. Most libraries now use a new service strategy called “tiered reference,” whereby the initial reference contact point is with trained students or paraprofessionals at a general service desk. These non-librarians field all manner of questions, including directional, computing, and occasionally reference. …

Papa's Got A Brand New (Virtual) Bag: Real-Time Chat And Reference Discourse, Darren Chase

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Many librarians agree that virtual reference has expanded the range of library reference services. Along with an expansion of reference service, virtual reference (especially real-time chat) has influenced reference discourse. Style characteristics of chat include its telegraphic brevity, its conversational and informal tone, and its tendency towards interview and exchange. A bedrock feature of traditional reference service is the reference interview-as this and other aspects of reference exchange are conversational, chat is exceptionally resonant within the continuum of reference services. The virtual reference librarian operates in a medium both familiar and leading-edge (a bridge between the traditional and the …

Teaching Information Literacy To The Advanced Writing Class In Three Sessions, Colleen Kennedy

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Introduction

As is the case at many universities, Northern Kentucky University’s Advanced Writing class is often thought of as the “Research Paper class.” Frequently, a research paper on a variety of topics is the capstone of the course and many of the other course assignments lead up to it. Students are usually brought to Steely Library for one class during the semester to be taught all the information competencies deemed necessary in one session. The classes are from 50 minutes to 75 minutes long.

The pilot program described here was a first attempt at an informal trial to determine whether …

Information And Communication Technologies And The Effects Of Globalization: Twenty-First Century “Digital Slavery” For Developing Countries—Myth Or Reality?, L. A. Ogunsola

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The main goal of this paper is to examine the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) revolution and the concept of globalization as they effect developing countries. Globalization as one of the reasons for possible widening of the gap between the poor and the rich nations was examined and the emerging concept of “digital slavery” was carefully evaluated. The wide gap in availability and use of ICTs across the world and the influences ICTs exert on globalization at the expense of developing countries were carefully examined and suggestions and necessary policies were offered for developing countries to leap-frog the industrialization …

Differences In Indexing Term Vocabularies And Agreement With Subject Specialists, John M. Weiner

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Index terms are an important component in considering a scientific topic. In a real sense, the indexing terms represent the vocabulary and language of the topic. Study of these critical terms has employed human and machine techniques. Computerized indexing systems can accurately and completely recognize terms, but the different strategies for organizing and evaluating the concepts (i.e., informative terms) and related issues may not be effective in accomplishing the desired descriptive actions. This paper explored the results of two computer supported approaches in indexing scientific documents against a background of simple random generation of informative terms in varying sized …

Handling Legal Questions At The Reference Desk And Beyond, Newkirk Barnes

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This article offers reference librarians practical advice on how to approach legal information requests that arrive via the reference desk, as well as through e-mail and chat. It suggests how to avoid the unauthorized practice of law by focusing on the activities reference librarians can safely perform when faced with legal questions from both their on-site and virtual users. The article discusses how reference librarians can conduct effective legal reference interviews both in person and online. Additionally, it suggests ways to include instruction in legal reference encounters, and possible sources for referral of questions that require professional legal assistance.

Users And Internet Skills: A Report From Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria, Stella E. Igun

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This study, based on a survey of eighty-one (81) users of a cyber café owned and run by the Delta State University, Abraka in 2005 examines the self-reported level of Internet skills; sources of such skills; the additional skills desired, and preferred ways of acquiring them; and how the Internet has influenced and affected their research. The results show 71% of respondents rated their Internet skills between average and very high; 78.8% acquired their Internet skills either online or through teaching by colleagues or friends. World Wide Web (WWW) skills were the most sought after additional skill (73%). Continuing …

Udlib/Search: Enhancing Information Literacy In Delaware Public Schools Through Use Of Technology, Dianna Mckellar

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

[Introduction]

Technology is being introduced to students at an earlier age each year. In today’s society students need to acquire a comfort level with technology and strong information literacy skills, preferably at an early age. It is for this reason that schools are being encouraged to create programs that both pique students’ interest in and develop their knowledge of technology.

UDLib/SEARCH is an example of a statewide program that enhances information literacy through use of technology and could be used as a model for similar programs. UDLib/SEARCH provides 16 periodical and encyclopedia databases as well as training on the use …

Narrowcasting To Faculty And Students: Creating An Efficient “Research By Subject” Page, Rob Withers, Rob Casson, Aaron Shrimplin

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Libraries provide thousands of e-resources, but most users need only a handful. Miami University has created an interface which enables subject specialists to select from electronic resources provided by the Libraries, add links to related resources, and post announcements in each subject area. In addition, subject specialists can create multi-database searches for each subject area. Subject specialists can make immediate changes, web developers are relieved of reviewing and making changes submitted by others, and students and faculty see the resources they need. The University portal will eventually link to subject areas corresponding each students’ classes and faculty member’s teaching …

Digital Reference Evaluation: Assessing The Past To Plan For The Future, J. B. Hill, Cherie Madarash-Hill, Ngoc Pham Thi Bich

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Historically, libraries have routinely evaluated their reference services both quantitatively and qualitatively. With the increasing volume of digital reference transactions, there is a need to modify and apply to digital reference, the same evaluation techniques that have been used successfully in the evaluation of traditional reference service. At Southeastern Louisiana University, a recent evaluation of the library's Ask a Librarian digital reference service included an unobtrusive observation of current practice through a detailed examination of archived reference transactions, as well as an assessment of future needs through a survey of users. Through this evaluation, it was possible to assess the …

Usability Of E-Journals And Preference For The Virtual Periodicals Room: A Survey Of Mathematics Faculty And Graduate Students, Lutishoor Salisbury, Emilio Noguera

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Introduction

Using several variables, the University of Arkansas Libraries conducted a survey in 2002 to measure the nature and extent of journal use in the Mathematics Reading Room, the Virtual Periodicals Room and Mullins Library.

The aims of this survey were two-fold: firstly, to collect information on the current level of support for electronic-only journals to aid in collection development, and secondly, to ascertain whether a Virtual Periodicals Room is a viable alternative to the physical Reading Room for the Mathematics faculty.

Conclusion

It is obvious from the results of the survey that greater use is being made of the …

Bibliographic Instruction: Two Models Converging In A Common Goal, Stephen J. Shaw

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Introduction

This essay will explore research in the undergraduate curriculum by examining the divergent ways research is understood. The debate centers around the ways that the typical student perceives the role of the library in her education at the university. To limit the discussion to the relation between the student and the librarian misses the larger issue at stake. What needs does the average undergraduate have after completion of the B.A., if they have no plans to continue education further? Are research skills necessary only for the graduate student, or is there some truth to the humanistic notion of 'knowledge …

Gnosis Ii: A Library Tutorial For Undergraduate Students, Elvira Saurina Solanes, Alicia Gaete

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Library use instruction in the Library System of the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile is an important issue that involves librarians, faculty and students. The Library System aims to have autonomous library users by teaching and engaging them in effectively using the resources offered by the library. Web tutorials offer a relaxing environment to students who can learn at their own pace and when they require it.

Gnosis II is a web-based tutorial, in Spanish, built by three librarians of the Library System, a faculty from the School of Nursing and staff from the Computer Department of the University. It …

Integrated Academic Student Support Services At Loyola University: The Library As A Resource Clearinghouse, Elizabeth Orgeron

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Higher education has seen the emergence of new models of student support services. These models vary greatly, ranging from those that, for example, simply streamline the registration process, to others that base new building construction on studies done about the information and service access needs of students.

In the recent past, colleges and universities have felt the impact of significantly higher drop out rates among freshman, and they have made attempts to assuage these rising attrition rates. Through extensive study of college campus culture and student needs, many institutions are changing long-standing protocols and adding a technology rich, user friendly …

Teaching Information Literacy In 50 Minutes A Week: The Crush Experience, Judith Faust

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

The development of information literacy is central to the academic success of undergraduates, yet few universities require formal, credit-bearing courses taught by librarians to ensure that students develop these lifelong learning skills and abilities. Where such courses do exist, they are often isolated in the curriculum and rarely linked to the General Education experience. This article describes a General Education program begun in 1998-1999 at California State University, Hayward (CSUH), in which a cohort of students and faculty spend the year exploring a common theme in a series of linked courses, which include an information literacy class. Librarians teach a …

Subject Librarians Relations With Faculty At The University Of Botswana: A Review Of Liaison Activities, Edwin Qobose

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Conclusion

Liaising at the University of Botswana Library (UBL) is at the heart of all subject librarian activities. It is therefore absolutely essential that we make an effort to maintain a liaison program which will ensure effective communication with all the academic departments for all of the library's services. As liaison librarians, we are academic partners, and should actively participate in the promotion of excellent teaching and research activities. By monitoring curricular and research developments in assigned subject fields, subject librarians develop and maintain library collections for their respective faculties. It is vital that we should always be proactive, and …

Are Transaction Logs Useful? A Ten-Year Study, Julie Banks

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Introduction

Transaction log analysis has long been a staple in academic libraries. Recently, for example, authors have reported on transaction logs and their use in identifying access point use, re-engineering the online public access catalog (OPAC), improving search retrieval, utilizing flip charts at terminals, and employing log data for general personnel management. There are still questions left unanswered, however, about the usefulness of transaction log analysis in marshalling personnel resources. One is whether the logs have predictive value over a span of time, and another is whether any useful trends can be discerned from the logs' data. To answer these …

Learning Communities: A Selective Overview Of Academic Library Involvement, Jean-Paul Orgeron

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

In 1932, Alexander Meiklejohn published a book that addressed the implementation of learning communities at the University of Wisconsin in 1927. The book, The Experimental College, serves as proof of the existence of such communities well over sixty years ago. It is clear that in the mid to late 1990s learning communities have piqued the curiosities of students and teaching faculty alike. Though they go by different names at various colleges and universities, and have somewhat different components, the common idea of learning communities is to have from two to four courses linked so that the courses have the same …

Inspec On Firstsearch: An Evaluation And Tutorial For Effective Searching, Lutishoor Salisbury, Usha Gupta

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

This paper focuses on providing critical evaluation and searching tips for users of the INSPEC database on FirstSearch on the Web. It introduces the idea of records and fields, fields searching to focus a search for effective retrieval, and the use of the Related Headings feature. Also explained is the idea of precision searching using the proximity operators and bound-phrase searching capabilities. Other ways to search for specific types of information (for example, foreign names, reviews, theses and dissertations, and chemical searching) are also presented. We provide practical examples to illustrate the search features using the Basic, Advanced, and Command …

A Checklist Of Considerations For Writing A Book Proposal: Meeting Tenure Criteria, Paul G. Haschak

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

With an apparently increasing emphasis on research, writing and publication in tenure criteria for academic librarians who hold faculty status, illustrated in the study by Park and Riggs (1991), tenure-track academic librarians should not overlook book publication as a possible alternative to the publication of journal articles, as an outlet for their research.

Similarly, they should not overlook or minimize the importance of putting together an effective proposal package to sell their book ideas to publishers. While Buchman (1987) and others have acknowledged that there is not one way to put a proposal package together--and therefore no magic formula exists--there …

Drug, Pharmaceutical, And Pharmacy-Related Sites: A Webliography Of Core Sites, Paul G. Haschak

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

The World Wide Web (WWW) increasingly is becoming an important learning, teaching, and research tool for teachers and students, alike, who are seeking useful drug, pharmaceutical, and pharmacy-related sites on the Web, for their research. However, the seemingly inexhaustible number of WWW links can be daunting even to the most experienced Web user.

The following webliography is presented specifically for educators and students seeking a concise, annotated core list of WWW links on pharmaceutical, drug, and pharmacy-related topics.