Exploring+the+library

=Project information=


 * Project title: || Exploring the Library ||
 * Project owner: || Nazma Vajat ||
 * Collaborators: || Lynn Kleinveldt ||
 * Department: || Libraries ||
 * Course title: ||  ||
 * Course level: ||  ||
 * Number of students: ||  ||

=Project design= Directing users to finding information via CPUT Libraries website.

Rationale for using podcasting / problems addressed with podcasting
One of the challenges that the library is facing is that students on all levels (1st yr up to doctoral level) are not aware of the library website and the resources available that can assist with their information needs. Although training sessions are being conducted, what is being taught is easily forgotten due to lack of practice and application.The purpose of implementing podcasts are to define terminologies, refresh users' memories, to direct, make them aware of services and resources at any time when the information need arises.

Ways of using podcasting in Teaching and Learning
This is a pilot project running at the Cape Town and Athlone campus libraries. The idea is to have an "Exploring the Library" icon on the desktops of all computers in the library and eventually all campuses. Collaboration with IT staff and other faculty librarians as well as the Information Literacy Committee is envisioned for the success of the project. The aim is to begin the podcast in the new term (April 2012). The duration of the project is one year.

Software and hardware used
The podcasts will be created using audacity and soundcloud software. Recording devices will be used to record audio. The podcasts will be made available on all library computer desktops. Students can use their earphones (or borrow from the library) to listen to podcasts as well as downloading it onto their flashdrives, phones, ipods etc to listen at their convenience.

Research questions
Create a questionnaire using Google Forms and distribute to students who attended library training already before the end of the first quarter. The evaluation form will be adapted to include the following: Define podcasting The following questions will be asked: Have you used podcasts before? Do you think that having access to podcasts will refresh your memory on what was covered during the library training? Would you like podcasts to be available on any other library information such as library hours, the number of books you can borrow, how to reference or how to access databases off-campus? Please add any other ideas.

Personal reflection
It is hoped that this project will contribute to Teaching and Learning and supporting users at CPUT.