Communication Commons^™

Columnist Answers Questions From Journalists, Carla Kimbrough

College of Journalism and Mass Communications: Faculty Publications

From time to time, this column will feature your questions about professional development. I will strive to answer your questions fully before publication in this space. Thanks to all who have offered questions and, to others, keep them coming.
Before tackling the questions posed to me, ethics is the theme for this issue, and I didn't want to miss an opportunity to discuss ethics and highlight the excellent staff at Poynter Institute.

Trends In Organizational Communication Research: Sustaining The Discipline, Sustaining Ourselves, Kathleen J. Krone

Department of Communication Studies: Faculty Publications

This paper began as a keynote address delivered at the 16th annual Organizational Communication Mini-Conference hosted by Western Michigan University. In it, I identify topical trends in organizational communication research, noting ways in which these trends are flexible, enduring, diverse, and problem-centered. I go on to invite current doctoral students to join us in developing these trends further. Specifically, I discuss how we might engage research in ways that sustain the vitality of the discipline as well as our own personal vitality. I conclude by offering a list of key articles that could serve as starting points in the ongoing …

It's Time To Upgrade Your Technology Skills, Carla Kimbrough

College of Journalism and Mass Communications: Faculty Publications

Technology, just like time, can be a friend or a the, depending on how yon treat it.
No doubt, technology has been good to journalism. From typewriters to computers, from encyclopedias to the World Wide Web and from film to digital, we have seen marvelous changes the past few decades in how we work.
Learning how to maximize your technology resources will help you remain competitive and could give you skills that make you more valuable in your newsroom.

Be Smart About Making Your Resolutions Stick, Carla Kimbrough

College of Journalism and Mass Communications: Faculty Publications

It's the new year, and you might have resolved to change some things in 2005. By March, you may have given up on the whole thing. Just like every other year.
Why is that we always start off with the best of intentions, but .soon forget our resolve? The truth is, we're not very SMART about setting goals. This column aims to change that.
First, let's define "goal." You may have beard a goal is a dream with a deadline. I define goals as "golden opportunities at living sensationally." A goal is simply a lost opportunity if you don't pursue …

Shooting Kennedy: Jfk And The Culture Of Images [Book Review], Kristen Hoerl

Department of Communication Studies: Faculty Publications

Forty years after his assassination, the memory of President Kennedy continues to grip the popular imagination. Recently, media and scholarly attention to the memory of John F. Kennedy has been evidenced in television documentaries and books that have recalled his presidency, his personal life, and his assassination. In Shooting Kennedy: JFK and the Culture of Images, David M. Lubin explores photographs of Kennedy to understand Kennedy’s popularity with the American public. Lubin, a professor of art, argues that Kennedy was significant not only for his political role as president but because he became an icon of twentieth-century postwar America. …

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

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (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 …

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

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (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 …

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

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (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.

You Are What You Link: A Guideline For The Enrichment Of Information On Campus Portals—A Perspective From Iran, Alireza Hejazi, Mitra Dilmaghani

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The main concern over campus portals is quality of data and information they provide for their users who are mainly students. Usually content is so important at universities and colleges that it is regarded as the king, but which factor is the most crucial one for the effectiveness of portfolios? The increasing role of campus portals in directing students to their desired destinations has proved them to be effective tools of worldwide education and research. This makes a challenge for academic portal developers to utilize their portfolios with qualified data and information. It seems that the enrichment of information …

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

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (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 …

Building Library Collections, The Ebay Way, Camila Gabaldón

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

eBay provides a fresh way to find and purchase items that build a library’s special collections and archives, supplement circulating collections, or replace journal issues that are missing. At Western Oregon University (WOU), we have used eBay to build our archives collections and are looking to expand our use to the general collections. This article uses some of our experiences to describe how eBay can be used to acquire library materials and includes lessons that we have learned, tips for optimizing your searches, and hints for eBay novices.

Movers And Shakers In The Library Publishing World Highlight Their Roles: Interviews With Print And Electronic Journal Editors - A Comparison, Julie Banks, Carl Pracht

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This paper reports the interviews of five Emerald Group and three electronic journal editors. Several topics were discussed, including the definition of a peer reviewed journal article, the role of the editor, the work involved in editing, the role of the editorial board, ways to get on the editorial board, the acceptance rate of the journal, and topics of interest for future publication. The experience provided insight into the working mechanisms of journal publishing and clearly showed that there are many similarities among the editors’ roles, relationships, workloads, and understanding of the peer review concept, no matter which format …

Cold Blood: A Murder, A Book, A Legacy, Suzanna Adam, Chris Bainbridge, Amber Brozek, Michael Bruntz, Tom Gemelke, Kris Kolden, Van Jensen, Melissa Lee, Dustin Schilling, Michele Brown, Sara Connolly, Sara Gibony, Steve Hermann, Rob Hunter, Brian Lehrmann, Susan Gage, Jerry Sass

College of Journalism and Mass Communications: Student Media

This year [2005] marks the 40th anniversary of the publication of Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood, considered one of the 20th century’s great works of literature. It also was among the first books in which the reporting techniques of journalism were assembled with the flair of traditional fiction writing.

The book is set in the community of Holcomb in 1959, when four members of a prominent farming family were killed in a fruitless robbery. Herbert and Bonnie Clutter and their children Nancy, 16, and Kenyon, 15, were shot by Perry Smith and Richard Hickock. The book details the crime, …

U.S.A. & France: I Love You ~ Neither Do I, Dirk Chatelain, Patti Vannoy, Rachael Seravalli, Kevin Abourezk, Erin Hilsabeck, Laura Schreier, Alyssa Schukar

College of Journalism and Mass Communications: Student Media

The Reporting
The Relationship by Dirk Chatelain
The History by Patti Vannoy
The American Inparis by Dirk Chatelain
The Expats by Rachael Seravalli
The Native Love by Kevin Abourezk
The Parisian Wild West by Kevin Abourezk
The Montauban by Kevin Abourezk
The Tourists by Erin Hilsabeck
The Art Capital by Erin Hilsabeck
The Famous Book Store by Laura Schreier
The Images by Alyssa Schukar
The Pop Culture by Laura Schreier
The Small Screen by Rachael Seravalli
The Veil Debate by Patti Vannoy
The Immigrants by Dirk Chatelain
The Rights Of Women by Patti Vannoy
The European Leader by Erin Hilsabeck …

Career Conundrums Require Self- Examination, Carla Kimbrough

College of Journalism and Mass Communications: Faculty Publications

It's Monday morning: How do you feel about going to work today?
Are you excited about the challenges ahead, or are you dreading the next assignment?
Now, imagine you have to remain there for the rest of your career.
Those Monday-morning feelings or the rest-of-your-life musings may give you a hint about whether it's time to make a career move — or not.
Fortunately, we can use logic and feelings to decide whether to stay or go.
We also can be confident that we're not alone. Career moves are something we all consider.

Board Of Directors Training, Heartland Center For Leadership Development

Heartland Center for Leadership Development Materials

Board of Directors Training

Roles and Responsibilities

Time Devoted to Six Basic Elements

Obstacles

Strategies

Ethics

Recruitment

Start Improving Today The Next Year Of Your Life, Carla Kimbrough

College of Journalism and Mass Communications: Faculty Publications

Is your life better today than it was a year ago?
That may sound similar to the political quip used during political debates, but the question is meant lo prompt thought about you and your life — professionally and personally.
Are you growing and learning? Has your reporting or editing improved? How about your knowledge ot the newsroom? Is it stagnant or alive? How are your leadership skills? Has your work been memorable this year? Has your work changed the way people live, work or play?

University Library Partnerships: Promoting Economic Development, J. Cory Tucker

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The article discusses an innovative partnership at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). The collaborative project involves the UNLV Libraries and the Nevada Small Business Development Center, which is affiliated with the College of Business. The partnership was created to assist the University's goal of promoting economic development in the Las Vegas and Southern Nevada region.

The Empowering Role Of Enterprise Information Portals In Knowledge Management, Alireza Hejazi

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The increasing role of enterprise information portals (EIPs) in different applications of information, including knowledge management (KM), makes it a necessity to elaborate the issue in a more serious and scientific way. The contribution and role that these kinds of portals have in empowering KM provide a theoretical framework through which to offer a conceptual basis for present and future KM trends. So the main purpose of this article is to organize theoretical concepts discussed on EIPs in a summarized manner and provide a conceptual context for thinking and working on them. It should be noted that the perspective …

If It Ain't Broke ... : Changing Search Philosophies, John M. Weiner

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This study employs simulation analyses to determine the consequences of two search philosophies. The first is called the a posteriori approach and involves terms selected arbitrarily by the user without knowledge of the specific content of the documents. The second is the a priori approach and involves terms selected because the user knows that the author employed those exact terms in describing his/her findings. Further, the authors' combinations of these terms would be known. The results of simulation studies show that the a posteriori approach was comparable to a random walk. If the need to correctly identify documents was …

The Importance Of Marketing And Total Quality Management In Libraries, Rajashekhar D. Kumbar

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Introduction

Herb White, states in Library Journal, “... it should be fairly clear that librarians do not market and that they never have marketed.” He concludes, “What we need to tell people is not how wonderful our public libraries are but rather how wonderful they could be. The awakening of these dreams is the purpose of marketing” (Besant & Sharp, 2000). Since the 1960’s, the most widely taught marketing concept was the marketing mix theory: the 4Ps (product, price, place and promotion)—so clean, so neat, so inappropriate for libraries. Marketing theory cannot always be so succinctly described since relationships …

Clinical Librarianship (Cl): A Historical Perspective, Evaliga Lappa

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Introduction

A number of previous studies have collected data on a hospital’s use of databases and the librarian’s role in the process. These studies express common themes and suggest activities for librarians wishing to promote the use of new technologies.

The first theme: While it seems clear that some physicians are competent and satisfied users of new computer search systems, many more, unfortunately, are unaware of the potential time saving features and powerful search capabilities of their search systems. Health sciences librarians have been advocating the use of indexes and abstracts for as long as these products have been available. …

An Analysis Of Entry-Level Librarian Ads Published In American Libraries, 1982-2002, Claudene Sproles, David Ratledge

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Much discussion has taken place in the literature over the difficulty finding qualified candidates to fill vacancies within libraries. Emphasis has been placed on recruitment, internships, scholarships, and other partnerships by library science schools and libraries to attract new people to the profession. Even so, applicant pools are dwindling [Simmons-Welburn and McNeil, 2004] and many institutions have been forced to rewrite job ads after initial postings to locate a qualified candidate. Factors hindering vacancy searches include:

• Graying of the profession, “Thousands of librarians will be retiring in the next ten years” [Simmons-Welburn and McNeil, 2004]
• Budget constraints/less positions [Bureau of …

Nigerian University Libraries And The Challenges Of Globalization: The Way Forward, L. A. Ogunsola

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to examine the importance, implications, and opportunities opened to Nigerian libraries in the current Information Age as related to the concept of globalization. This paper shall attempt to address possible areas of importance and advantages that can propel Nigerian universities and their libraries into being a respective player in the global IT revolution and enhance their status in what is now widely called as Global Village. This paper stresses the necessity for Nigerian universities to be part of the new and emerging technologies which are challenging the traditional process of teaching and …

Language-Related Open Archives: Impact On Scholarly Communities And Academic Librarianship, Jung-Ran Park

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

The evolution of new forms of scholarly communication since the advent of Web technology has brought unprecedented opportunities for potential global connection among the rapidly growing number of electronic repositories among scholarly communities. Under the open archive infrastructures, scholarly resources that had been invisible to Web search engines and thus afforded limited dissemination and access are now becoming increasingly visible with speedy and wide distribution. This paper addresses the emergent issues and challenges faced by academic librarians: participation in archiving, organization, and preservation of open repositories; integration of Web-based repositories into traditional collections; and mediation and direction of academic users …

Sex Differences In Video Game Play: A Communication-Based Explanation, Kristen Lucas, John L. Sherry

Department of Communication Studies: Faculty Publications

In this study, we examined gender differences in video game use by focusing on interpersonal needs for inclusion, affection, and control, as well as socially constructed perceptions of gendered game play. Results of a large-scale survey (n = 534) of young adults’ reasons for video game use, preferred game genres, and amount of game play are reported. Female respondents report less frequent play, less motivation to play in social situations, and less orientation to game genres featuring competition and three-dimensional rotation. Implications for game design are discussed.

Stepchildren’S Perceptions Of The Contradictions In Communication With Stepparents, Leslie A. Baxter, Dawn O. Braithwaite, Leah E. Bryant, Amy Wagner

Department of Communication Studies: Faculty Publications

This interpretive study, framed in relational dialectics theory, sought to identify stepchildren’s perceptions of the contradictions that animate communication with the stepparent in their household of primary residence. In-depth interviews were conducted, producing 802 pages of double-spaced interview transcripts, which were analyzed inductively for commonly experienced contradictions of stepchild-stepparent communication. Three underlying contradictions were identified. First, stepchild-stepparent communication was perceived to be characterized by a dialectic of integration, characterized by both closeness and distance. Second, stepchild-stepparent communication was perceived to be characterized by a dialectic of parental status, in which the stepparent was, and was not, granted legitimacy in a …

“If You Hit Me Again, I’Ll Hit You Back”: Conflict Management Strategies Of Individuals Experiencing Aggression During Conflicts, Loreen N. Olson, Dawn O. Braithwaite

Department of Communication Studies: Faculty Publications

In interpersonal relationships characterized by aggression, the negotiation of conflict is especially significant. The present study examined the conflict management strategies used by 31 individuals who had experienced verbal and/or physical aggression during conflicts with their partners. Sillars’ (1986) conflict tactics coding system was used as a framework to analyze 960 pages of transcribed data. The results of this deductive content analysis indicated that the participants reported using primarily Distributive conflict strategies. Analytic induction was also used to interpret nonverbal forms of conflict management, revealing three common tactics: crying, nonverbal avoidance, and aggression. Implications for using these conflict strategies in …

Independence Of Nations And The Role Of Libraries: The American Library System As The Stakeholder For Freedom Of Information, Lana Zink

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The nations of the world community are independent of each other. There is no higher authority to bring together like and unlike nations for the betterment of world order. Each nation stands alone. It is realized, even in America, that international affairs dictate there is no one moral code common to all people and to all governments of the world. Political order in the world community depends upon an independence of nations, but an independence that recognizes a moral, reasoned mind. The so-called American library system plays a role in the assurances toward tempered, human behavior at the international …

A First In Africa: Implementation Of Metalib And Sfx At The Cape Technikon Library, Deborah Becker

E-JASL: Electronic Journal of Academic and Special Librarianship (1999-2009, Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The Cape Technikon was the first member of the CALICO consortium of five academic libraries in the Western Cape, South Africa to implement Metalib and SFX technology.

Metalib is a library portal that enables users to search multiple database sources simultaneously, while SFX provides “context-sensitive” linking. This article examines local technical and staffing issues, managing the implementation process using the traditional African principles of ubuntu and batho pele (putting “people first”), and the marketing campaign leading to the final launch of the product.

The use of questionnaires at various stages of the implementation process to evaluate users’ opinions and …