ERIC Number: ED278372
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1986
Pages: 75
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
The Microcomputer in the School Library Project. Phase 1 (September 1983-August 1985).
Herring, James E.; And Others
The first of two phases in this research project aimed at linking information technology (IT) with library information skills used the microcomputer as an information retrieval tool, and investigated ways of using curriculum-based keywords to help secondary school students define and maintain a clear sense of purpose when selecting, evaluating, and organizing information. Based in one secondary school, the project concentrated on the development of information-handling skills in curriculum-related project work. Observations, interviews, and informal discussion with students, teachers, and the school librarian formed the basis of evaluation in terms of development and use of curriculum-linked bibliographic databases. Findings indicated that the information retrieval system acted as a motivating influence in the initial stages of the students' research assignments, and that students developed information retrieval skills when databases were used over a period of time and in a number of different contexts, especially when they were fully integrated with the students' assignments. It was concluded that, to be effective as an educational tool, curriculum-linked databases should be developed from a clear statement of aims, based on the needs and abilities of the users as well as the aims and objectives of the curriculum; collaboration between librarians and teachers is essential in designing, developing, and implementing the keyword approach; and careful planning of databases should take into account the keyword language, design, and content of computer files. Eleven references are listed and samples of various materials used in the program are appended. (DJR)
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Researchers
Language: English
Sponsor: Scottish Education Dept., Edinburgh.
Authoring Institution: Robert Gordon's Inst. of Technology, Aberdeen (Scotland). School of Librarianship and Information Studies.
Identifiers - Location: United Kingdom (Scotland)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A