E-Moderators are \"the new generation of teachers and trainers who work with learners online\" (p. viii) using Computer-Mediated Conferencing (CMC) as a learning tool, regardless of the subject they are teaching. They are the focus of E-Moderating, a recent book which provides both a theoretical framework for developing online learning using CMC (part one), and a wealth of practical advice (part two). The book is supported by a Web site. The author, Gilly Salmon, a distance education specialist with the Open University Business School in the UK, provides a five-step model of effective online education, along with copious examples of how the model relates to real-life online learning contexts. Salmon proposes that, by basing learning on a constructivist model, it is e-moderators that can make the difference in online education as they convene, direct, summarize, and archive synchronous and asynchronous discussions.

/pdf/e-moderating-the-key-to-teaching-and-learning-online-149mr9c3qc.pdf

E-Moderating: The Key to Teaching and Learning Online

In the digital era, information literacy skills enable users to locate and use online materials effectively. One persistent library service for libraries is providing skills training to students. This article traces the creation of online library instructional tutorials, currently referred to as digital learning objects, in academic libraries. It isolates the factors that improve the success of these learning tools, including knowledge of the tutorials’ purpose and potential, collaboration with other individuals, the use of standards, student engagement, and evaluation. The literature review also illustrates the incorporation of multimedia learning theories and assessment strategies in these tutorials. By developing appropriate learning tools, librarians offer services aimed at meeting user needs while reducing time and resource demands on library staff.

Best Practices for Creating an Online Tutorial: A Literature Review

Purpose – The prevalence of virtual learning environments (VLEs) in higher education is well documented and has been promoted in the UK by government funded projects, but there has been little empirical research on the level of involvement of subject librarians with VLEs. A survey was designed to investigate how VLEs are affecting the work of subject librarians and to examine factors influencing their use in providing electronic information resources and developing information skills. The aim of this paper is to document the resultsDesign/methodology/approach – A questionnaire was distributed electronically to a purposive sample of 132 subject librarians at seven UK universities. The instrument contained mainly closed specified response questions with a few open questions and a response rate of 43 per cent (n=57) was achieved.Findings – Use of VLEs by subject librarians varies both between and within institutions. Factors affecting this include the subject area, co‐operation of academic staff and attitude...

/pdf/the-subject-librarian-and-the-virtual-learning-environment-a-3fea5hltkd.pdf

The subject librarian and the virtual learning environment: A study of UK universities

Purpose – To describe the challenges involved in developing and delivering a pilot library skills course to a group of international bridging studies students from China and Pakistan. To provide guidelines for other libraries who may be faced with similar challenges.Design/methodology/approach – The paper documents the development and delivery of a pilot course for international students. The course described formed part of an accredited Critical Thinking & Research Skills module. The challenges of the project are described and a number of recommendations for its future development are outlined.Findings – The project underlined the challenges involved in teaching library skills to international students. The main barrier that emerged throughout the course related to communication difficulties. Language levels amongst the group were poorer than anticipated. The group did display excellent IT skills, however, and enjoyed class work that actively engaged them in the learning process.Research limitations/impl...

Crossing a bridge: The challenges of developing and delivering a pilot information literacy course for international students

It is often assumed that incoming graduate students are information literate, yet many of them lack the skills needed to effectively organize and critically evaluate research. Supporting students in acquiring information literacy skills is a critical role for universities, as it improves the quality of student research and enhances their opportunities for lifelong learning. The literature in this area has focused on the partnership between librarians and course instructors, which has been shown to produce the most effective library instruction: however, additional research is needed concerning the collaborative approach to teaching information literacy to graduate students. The current study used action research to gather information on students’ perceptions of a blend of two methods of library instruction, a web-based tutorial and an in-class library instruction session. While few students indicated engagement with the online tutorial, most students appreciated the in-class session. Recommendations for information literacy instruction and further research are included.

/pdf/where-to-start-considerations-for-faculty-and-librarians-in-32jk6v65nu.pdf

‘Where to start?’: Considerations for faculty and librarians in delivering information literacy instruction for graduate students.

This article begins with an analysis of the information society, discussing its repercussions and defining the term, information literacy. It also describes the need for, as well as the creation and development of, an online information literacy tutorial, named Olas at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) Libraries. Olas follows international best practice and its overall framework is based on US, Australian and UK information literacy models, while its learning outcomes follow those produced by both the Council of Australian University Librarians and Peter Godwin, South Bank University, London. Olas aims to introduce basic and advanced concepts of information literacy to the broadest possible range of learners both on‐campus and remotely. Olas is currently being piloted at WIT. Apart from the integrated commercial database products to which access is contractually limited to WIT students and staff, it is freely available from WIT Libraries' Web site. Further development is focused on building an improved version of the course in the WebCT virtual learning environment. The WebCT version will include more richly interactive content, will facilitate credited assessment of WIT‐registered students, and will address outstanding accessibility issues.

/pdf/a-portrait-of-olas-as-a-young-information-literacy-tutorial-3w70cqqyeg.pdf

A portrait of Olas as a young information literacy tutorial

Purpose – To outline the structure and development of a library‐based Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) training programme at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) and to describe its origins, implementations and long‐term goals. To explain why WIT Libraries was prepared to diversify from its traditional role and to take on the challenges involved in this project.Design/methodology/approach – Case study report on the VLE training initiative as it has progressed at WIT. Describes WIT Libraries' experience as the main instigator of the WebCT training programme at WIT and questions whether or not this has been an effective medium for the introduction of WebCT to WIT.Findings – Concludes by stating that the Library Unit is capable of implementing a varied, diverse and successful VLE programme. Stresses the importance of the personnel involved to the success of the project to date.Research limitations/implications – The project is still at an early stage of development. The study provides a short‐term view ...

Librarians outside the box: Waterford Institute of Technology's library‐based virtual learning environment (VLE) training and development programme

The need for learning support programmes in academic libraries is discussed. The development and progress of WIT Libraries programme, from its origin in 1996 to its present day initiatives, is documented. The service began on a small scale in a small library building in 1996. Today, seven years and a new library building later, the service is going from strength to strength. Advances have been made in line with learner needs and expectations and according to the goals of the Library Strategic Plan. The programme currently consists of a number of modules, including a specific programme for first years, one for second to final years and tailored research sessions for postgraduates and staff. Furthermore, it incorporates a combination of modes of delivery. Face‐face training is complemented by an evolved online element.

Neil Quinlan

Papers

A portrait of Olas as a young information literacy tutorial

Librarians outside the box: Waterford Institute of Technology's library‐based virtual learning environment (VLE) training and development programme

On the cat‐walk: WIT libraries learning support model