Using an online database searching tutorial to encourage reflection on the research process by undergraduate students

Abstract

In 2003, Education Liaison Librarians designed and implemented an online database searching tutorial for students in a core third year Queensland University of Technology Bachelor of Education undergraduate unit. This was intended to promote reflection on the scholarly research process in undergraduate students. Impetus for the tutorial came from academic staff, librarians and student feedback. This indicated that students experienced difficulty in distinguishing between scholarly and non-scholarly sources of information. In addition, students had problems constructing and implementing effective searches.

This paper outlines the actual design process, including the choice of technologies appropriate for a range of learning styles. It highlights the collaborative nature of such initiatives and discusses the issues involved in implementation, ongoing evaluation and modification. A significant benefit of the project has been the interest it has generated as a useful model among other QUT academic staff and liaison librarians.