Digital Commons Network^™

Effect Of Inclusiveness And Contemporary Teaching And Learning Environments On Students With Learning Disability, Emmanuel Chidiadi Onwubiko

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

This work is an overview of the effect of inclusiveness and contemporary teaching and learning environments on students with learning disability. The paper looked at learning disability, inclusiveness in education and contemporary teaching and learning environment from the conceptual perspective as well as the effect of both inclusiveness and contemporary teaching and learning environments on students with learning disability. It was ascertained based on reviewed literature that inclusive education is in tandem with the United Nations Sustainable Developmental Goal (UN-SDG) 4 which stipulates that no child should be left behind in education with special reference to students with learning disability. …

Theory-Based Science Communication At Comic Cons, Lisa Lundgren, Emily Slater, Man Zhang, Kadie Kunz, Gabriel-Philip Santos

Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences Faculty Publications

The majority of research concerning science communication happens in spaces where people already have a vested interest in or knowledge of science, such as museums and science cafes. Thus, there is a gap in understanding what theory-based science communication looks like in non-science-centered spaces. This qualitative research study, which featured cosplaying science communicators at comic conventions, offers insights into what science communication practices occur within everyday spaces. We conducted observations of and semi-structured interviews with 15 cosplaying scientists, examining how they utilized effective framing and narrative structuring when communicating science at comic cons in cosplay. Across 700 coded utterances, cosplaying …

Cognitive And Affective Information Seeking Barriers Affecting First-Year Students At The Tshwane University Of Technology (Tut), Rirhandzu S. Mhinga, Rirhandzu Sharon Mhinga, Madely Du Preez

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Abstract

Introduction. Investigates cognitive and affective barriers caused by uncertainty that affect the information seeking and searching behaviour of first-year students registered at the Tshwane University of Technology, Polokwane campus. These students do not have a background of using academic information resources and systems. Kuhlthau’s Information Search Process (ISP) model and the four levels of information needs identified by Taylor guided this study. The research question that shaped this investigation is, how do feelings of uncertainty affect the information seeking behaviour of first year students?

Methods. A phenomenological research approach was employed in the study. Fifteen first-year students were interviewed. …

Who Gets To Decolonize: A Reflection On The Importance Of Positionality In The Decolonization Of Digital Learning Spaces And Learning Design, Rebecca Y. Bayeck, Tutaleni Iita Asino

Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences Faculty Publications

Decolonization as a term and concept gained prominence in the 20th century as new nations emerged from the cessation of the global colonial project which primarily saw European countries occupying different parts of the world. In modern times, interests in decolonization have taken different forms, particularly in learning design and digital learning spaces. In the digital space, researchers mainly suggest introducing indigenous perspectives and cultural lenses in the design of digital learning environments and the design of emerging technologies that embed indigenous perspectives (Nede, 2023). This reflexive essay discusses the importance of positionality in digital learning spaces and learning/instructional design. …

The Wicked Problem Of Climate Change And The Challenge Of Engagement: Exploring Educational Approaches And Possibilities For Information Literacy, Andrea Baer

Libraries Scholarship

Climate change is a prime example of a “wicked problem”: it is characterized by complexity and unboundedness and has no complete or simple solutions, though communities can develop constructive interventions that address particular aspects of the problem (for example, in cities increasing green spaces that have a cooling effect). Because the problem of climate change is so expansive and the answers to it remain limited in scope and impact, engaging with the topic inevitably evokes difficult emotions like uncertainty, overwhelm, despair, and grief. So it is understandable that a common response to the realities of climate change has been denial …

Understanding Non-Designers' Practices And Processes In A Human-Centered Design Course, Luettamae Lawrence, Saadeddine Shehab, Mike Tissenbaum

Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences Faculty Publications

Human-centered design (HCD) has been identified in the literature as a useful problem-solving approach for learners. However, learning and applying HCD poses several challenges for students who are unfamiliar with this form of learning. In this paper, we analyse how a novice design team worked on a HCD class project to examine how non-designers learn about and integrate HCD practices into their project. We introduce the HCD taxonomy to define the processes and practices that students engage in. The team’s design work is triangulated across multiple data sources and revealed three challenges for engaging non-designers in HCD: 1) the need …

Influence Of The Use Of Ict On Students’ Academic Performance In Mathematics In Efon-Alaaye Lga, Ekiti State, Temitope Samuel Akinbinu Mr

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

The application of Information and Communications Technology (ICTs) in education has revolutionized teaching and learning. This study sought to determine the influence of ICT in terms of students’ attitude towards ICT use and the extent of using ICT facilities on students’ academic performance in mathematics. Specifically, the study focused on the students’ attitude towards ICT use, the extent to which ICT facilities was used, challenges encountered in the course of using it, the significant effect of ICT on student academic performance in mathematics and significant difference on academic performance based on gender.

The study was non-experimental, it adopted survey research …

The Role Of Livestock Cooperative Societies In Providing Information On Livestock Production In Northwest Nigeria, Suleiman Idris, Abdulkadir Tsagem Mamman

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Livestock cooperative societies play an important role in disseminating information related to livestock production practices to farmers in Northwest Nigeria. These societies aim to support farmers by sharing knowledge that can help strengthen animal husbandry techniques, improve productivity, and increase farm incomes. Through organized events, training programs, and distribution of educational materials, the livestock cooperatives in the region seek to provide farmers with the latest research-based information on topics like animal breeding, feeding, disease prevention, and market access. The objective of this study is to assess the types of information services provided by livestock cooperative societies to address the information …

Fostering Self-Reflection On Library Instruction: Testing A Peer Observation Instrument Focused On Questioning Strategies, Eric Silberberg

Publications and Research

This study demonstrates that a library instruction observation instrument can effectively foster critical self-reflection among academic library faculty and staff on their teaching practices. The paper outlines the instrument's design, which gathers low inference observations on instructors’ use of questioning as a pedagogical strategy based on recommendations from the LIS and education literature. To test and refine the instrument's design, the instructors’ utilised the instrument to collect data from classes taught by five participating instructors, who, during post-observation interviews, engaged in thoughtful reflections on their class planning, student participation, and teaching philosophy. They also provided valuable critiques of the usefulness …

Exploring Professional Identities In Libraries: The Impact Of Credit-Bearing Courses Beyond Student Learning, Jane Hammons, Daniel S. Dotson, Hanna Primeau, Diana Ramey

Communications in Information Literacy

In this essay, we argue in support of library-led information literacy (IL) credit courses, emphasizing the impact that developing, teaching, and managing these courses can have on the professional identity of library faculty and staff. Existing research has indicated that librarians who teach credit courses may more strongly identify as teachers than those who teach only course-integrated sessions. We expand on this research by sharing the perspective of four individuals who are involved in the design, instruction, and coordination of credit-bearing IL courses, including two faculty librarians and two staff members. By providing these differing voices, we give a unique …

Choose Your Own Research Adventure: An Asynchronous Tutorial To Address “Research As Inquiry”, Stacy Brinkman, Samantha Hilton

Communications in Information Literacy

The Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education posits that the practice of asking questions in order to deepen inquiry and understanding is a key element of information literacy. While the “Research as Inquiry” frame is teachable in library instruction, it can be difficult to scale. Popular instructional design software tends to present information in linear formats that can limit how students understand the iterative nature of research. This article presents an attempt at an asynchronous tutorial that overcomes this limitation of medium and that presents “Research as Inquiry” through an iterative and question-based online game. We discuss the development, …

Independent Long Covid Journalism As A Lens For Critical Information Literacy: Conversations With The Sick Times Founders Betsy Ladyzhets And Miles W. Griffis, Andrea Baer

Communications in Information Literacy

Both the COVID-19 pandemic and the acceleration of climate change illuminate how difficult it can be to make sense of information about wicked problems—that is, issues that are highly complex and have no simple or complete solutions (Rittel & Webber, 1973). One approach to grappling with wicked problems is to consider the information practices that different people, communities, or professions use to make sense of those issues. In this Perspectives piece, I explore possible ways to practice and teach about critical information literacy by looking to the views, experiences, and professional practices of two independent journalists who report on …

Fy24 Usability Program Test #7: Retesting And Observing Search Behaviors, Lindsey Skaggs

Faculty and Staff Publications – Milner Library

The FY24 Usability Testing Program was designed to iteratively assess user experience at Milner Library. The program gathers data through usability testing of the library's website and discovery layer, as well as survey questions about users' experiences with library services. Test #7 gathers information from library users about their experiences locating and accessing materials and information. Takeaways and recommendations are included in the report.

Cyber Loafing And Innovative Work Behavior As Predictors Of Perceived Job Performance: A Nigerian Study, Oluyomi Folorunso, Ruth Okeile

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Previous studies on Perceived Job Performance (PJP) have focussed almost entirely on organizational settings different from the library. Furthermore, the studies did not investigate how the pertinent variables of Cyber Loafing (CL) and Innovative Work Behavior (IWB) predict PJP of the organizational workers. This study, therefore, was designed to examine CL and IWB as predictors of PJP of the personnel of some university libraries in Nigeria.

Theories of Reasoned Action and Job Performance anchored the study, while the survey design of correlational type was adopted. The study population comprised the 96 professional librarians and 95 library officers in the 12 …

Use Of Internet Resources Among Mbbs/Bds Students: The Case Of Clinical Students In A Medical School In Nigeria, Samuel Bello

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

Background: The Internet has been identified as a multipurpose technology that has become the world’s biggest library where information resources can be accessed with a simple mouse click away. The immense contributions of the tool in academia necessitated the efforts of some universities and Colleges to create an enabling environment, such as low or no-cost Internet access, for new students who need an Internet connection to survive on campus. This study investigated the Use of Internet Resources among MBBS/BDS Students: The Case of Clinical Students in a Medical School in Nigeria

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the use of …

The Management Variables And The Provision F Library Services To The University Undergraduates In South-East, Nigeria, Ngozi Immaculata Ike Dr.

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

This study investigated management variables and the provision of library services to the university undergraduates in federal universities across Southeast Nigeria. The research examined the relationship between planning and organizing, and the extent of library services provided. Three research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. A multiple correlational design was employed. Data collection utilized a 4-point modified Likert rating scale. The population of the study was 19390 comprising librarians and students. This is made up of 19188 students and 202 librarians. The population was made up of all university undergraduate registered library users and librarians within the period the …

Gender And Peer Review, Monica Berger

Publications and Research

No abstract provided.

Ischool Student Research Journal, Vol.14, Iss.1

School of Information Student Research Journal

Volume 14, Issue 1 of the School of Information Student Research Journal explores the multifaceted impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on academia, particularly within library and information science (LIS) education and scholarly publishing. Highlighting the proactive measures taken by San Jose State University's iSchool, this issue underscores the necessity of integrating AI competencies, such as data privacy and ethical AI use, into curricula. Through detailed case studies and policy reviews, the issue examines the ethical and societal implications of AI, including biases and inequalities, advocating for adaptive and responsible AI integration.

Odin Halvorson's paper emphasizes the transformative potential of Large …

Into The Unknown: Developing Ai Policies For The Student Research Journal, Marc Hoffeditz

School of Information Student Research Journal

In light of the artificial intelligence (AI) boom in late 2022, policies governing the use and disclosure of artificial intelligence in scholarly journals have occupied editorial boards of all disciplines. The Student Research Journal (SRJ) at San José State University sought to tackle this issue with an inclusive process to better serve our authors and editorial team in uncertain times. This editorial will discuss the work of the SRJ’s AI Policy Working Group in completing a comprehensive review of literature surrounding the topics of AI and scholarly publishing, detail the journal’s first AI disclosure policy in depth, and identify next …

Ai In Academia: Policy Development, Ethics, And Curriculum Design, Odin Halvorson

School of Information Student Research Journal

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal force in modern society, significantly impacting various sectors, including academia. This paper examines the broad implications of AI, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs), and their transformative potential across educational institutions. The San Jose State University's iSchool is highlighted as a case study, demonstrating its proactive approach to integrating nascent technologies and revising curriculum competencies to address AI's influence. As AI reshapes library and information science (LIS) education, the development of new competencies, such as data privacy and ethical AI use, becomes essential. Furthermore, the ethical and societal implications of AI, including potential …

Teaching Librarians’ Experiences Of Individual And Shared Agency: The Lens Of Librarian Relationships And Workplace Culture, Andrea Baer

Libraries Scholarship

No abstract provided.

Building Community For First Generation Students, Dymond Bush, Olivia Seymour, Alicia G. Vaandering

Library Staff Publications, Presentations & Journal Articles

For many first-generation college students, the university library can seem like an intimidating space and present challenges that often aren’t encountered by traditional students. This panel discussion focuses on how academic libraries are creating community and space for historically marginalized students. In this presentation, panelists from three different academic libraries discuss how they’ve developed programs and enhanced instruction to support first-generation students on their campuses. Dymond Bush discusses how she invited students from Alpha Alpha Alpha, the First Generation Student Honor Society, into the library through programming in the virtual reality lab to encourage their sense of belonging in the …

Thinking Differently About Cataloging: Visualizing Your Ideas, Ann Kardos, Thea Atwood

OLAC Presentations

Cataloging and metadata, just like any other area of librarianship, can be creative. Join Ann Kardos and Thea Atwood as they introduce thinking creatively to process thoughts and ideas through art making. Please bring paper and something to draw with (crayons, gel pens, markers, whatever you like!). This interactive workshop will focus on getting everyone drawing and sharing their ideas.

Exploring Open Education Advocacy: Stakeholder Strategies To Build A Campus Culture Of “Open”, Nancy A. Henke, Molly Jameson, Ethan Roth

University Libraries Publications

Awareness of OER is essential to understanding and implementing open and equitable pedagogical practices. However, what if a campus requires more education about the “what” and “why” of OER to then spark discussions about open pedagogy? And how does an institution build a campus culture of open education when stakeholders have different degrees of investment in its implementation? OER advocacy efforts may differ significantly depending on an individual’s position within the academic hierarchy and their job responsibilities.

This panel featured three different OER advocates – an undergraduate student, a faculty librarian, and a program administrator – as they shared their …

Perception And Utilization Of Electronic Databases By Undergraduate Students In Universities In Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, Inemesit Udom Udoh, Glory E. Ekpenyong Mr., Mfon Etefia Ekanem Mrs.

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

The study investigated the perception and utilization of electronic databases by undergraduate students in universities in Akwa-Ibom State, Nigeria. It adopted a descriptive survey design with a study population of 1,116 registered undergraduates-users of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) Library and Ritman University Library, out of which 224 undergraduates-users were sampled using the proportionate stratified sampling techniques. Data was collected using a combined instrument of observation checklist, structured questionnaire and unstructured interview. 224 copies of the questionnaire were distributed, but 186 (83%) were retrieved with valid information. Analysis of data was done using frequency count, simple percentage, mean scores and …

Incorporating Ai Tools To Enhance Information Literacy And Critical Thinking In First Year Medical Students, James Martin Ii, Mercedes Byrd

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

This study aims to evaluate the impact of an educational intervention incorporating medical databases, search engines, and generative artificial intelligence (GAI) tools on the critical thinking skills and confidence of first-year medical students at Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine (SOM). Approximately 125 students participating in a three-week pre-matriculation program will be subjects of the study. The intervention will consist of a curriculum focused on developing research questions, using search tools and GAI, evaluating sources, and writing a research paper. Pre- and post-tests, including a CARS assessment and a perceived knowledge and abilities questionnaire, will be administered to measure changes in …

Getting Published And Raising Research Visibility, Pin Pin Yeo

Research Collection Library

Embarking on publishing your research can be exciting yet daunting. This seminar will guide you through crafting a compelling paper, navigating the submission process, and enhancing your paper's visibility. Learn what editors and reviewers seek, how to select the right journal, and how to publicise your research effectively. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or new to publishing, join us to amplify the impact of your work and share your discoveries with the world.

Inclusive Global Scholarly Communication: Toward A Just And Healthier Information Ecosystem, Angel Y. Ford, Daniel G. Alemneh

Information Science Faculty Scholarship

Scholarly communication has long been a central topic in the field of information science. However, philosophical, and even perhaps some legal reflections, including the moral and ethical considerations of the health of information ecosystems, are fairly recent developments. In fact, recent topics are propelled by various contextual factors including economic, disciplinary, societal norms, and cultures.This article explores literature discussing the plight of scholars in low- and middle-income countries that struggle to engage in scholarly communications in their fields. This topic has been explored for years, however, has often been addressed in disciplines outside of information science and knowledge management. This …

The Framing Of Authority In The Acrl Framework On Information Literacy: Multidisciplinary Perspectives On Truth, Authority, Expertise And Belief., Lisa M. Rose-Wiles

Praxis Publications

Purpose This paper engages multidisciplinary perspectives on truth, authority, expertise and belief to unpack and better understand the underlying epistemology and implications of the ACRL frame “authority is constructed and contextual”.' Design/Methodology/Approach Following an overview of the issues confronting us in a “post-truth world”, the paper reviews critiques of the ACRL frame “authority is constructed and contextual” and examines the related concepts of truth, authority, expertise and belief from multidisciplinary perspectives. Findings While the frame acknowledges the limitations and biases of current scholarly publishing and implicitly supports social justice, it runs the danger of promoting relativism and is ambiguous regarding …

Sowing Seeds For Success: Equitable Grading In The Information Literacy Classroom, Alicia G. Vaandering

Public Services Faculty Presentations

What impact does your grading and assessment have on student success and retention? Research has shown that traditional grading can have a negative impact on student learning by placing students who come to the classroom with less knowledge or experience with class content at a disadvantage. This session will introduce the practice of ungrading, an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of equitable grading strategies and practices like specifications and contract grading. Together, attendees will question how library and LIS educators can rethink their grading on a spectrum that ranges from redesigning a single assignment to overhauling an entire …