Addressing the Needs of Non-Traditional Online Students in a Credit-Bearing IL Course
- Conference Year
- Online Northwest 2019
- Session
- 3
- Type
- Breakout Session
- Presenters
- Sarah Ralston, Eastern Oregon University
- Abstract
LIB 307: Online Research Tools and Strategies is a two-credit upper division information literacy course serving an online-only student population at Eastern Oregon University (EOU). The course examines search strategies and techniques used in general and discipline-specific research tools such as databases, library discovery systems, and free online content. EOU's online student population is made up of primarily non-traditional transfer students, most of whom have been out of school for many years, and have cobbled together credits from multiple colleges and universities. Many readily admit they have not used the library since it had a card catalog, and they may have been overwhelmed, anxious, or intimidated about expectations for library research. The course eases them into academic library research by introducing them to online search tools and strategies, with an emphasis on critical thinking and evaluation. The course is highly recommended by academic advisors who serve online students, and regularly receives praise and positive feedback from students who have taken it. This presentation will provide context about the class, and its content and outcomes will be described.
- Links