Jennifer L. Branch

Junior high students and Think Alouds: Generating information-seeking process data using concurrent verbal protocols

Twelve participants completed over 140 concurrent verbal protocols (Think Alouds) as they searched for information using two CD-ROM encyclopedias. The ability to generate Think Alouds varied among the participants. The 2,200 statements were coded as defining, planning, monitoring, or evaluating. All participants made a majority of defining statements, but the number of planning and monitoring statements varied among participants. It was found that some participants were in the acquisition phase, a phase where people are less likely to be able to do the task and think about the task at the same time. Other participants were able to plan and ask questions, characteristic of the consolidation phase. In a few searches, some participants seemed to be in the consultation phase. This was characterized by the ability to perform skills, plan an approach, and discuss difficulties and problems with themselves. Researchers need to be conscious of levels of self-direction so that the most complete Think Aloud data can be gathered from participants.

Solid Foundations: A Primer on the Crucial, Critical, and Key Roles of School and Public Libraries in Children's Development

This article will first look at the important role that school and public libraries play in children’s development by providing crucial encouragement, critical access, and key time for reading and literacy. Then we will explore the importance of school and public library collaboration for children’s literacy and academic success. We will examine the ways in which research has demonstrated that public libraries and school libraries can work together when facilities are closed, access is limited, and budgets are cut, and will conclude with the implications for library and information science (LIS) researchers in fields beyond school libraries and youth services. Some Things Bear Repeating: A Primer on the Crucial, Critical, and Key Roles of School and Public Libraries in Children’s Development Learning and innovation skills increasingly are being recognized as the skills that separate students who are prepared for increasingly complex life and work environments in the 21st century, and those who are not. A focus on creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration is essential to prepare students for the future (Partnership for 21st Century Skills, 2004, para. 1). School libraries and public libraries can work together to support children and young adults in gaining these necessary skills. The public library is often a place where children first experience the wonder of libraries and reading. Children come to the public library at story times and to choose books to read at home. Librarians develop collections to meet the needs of young, prekindergarten aged children and provide assistance to LIBRARY TRENDS, Vol. 58, No. 1, Summer 2009 (“Important to Us All: School Libraries and LIS Research,” edited by Marcia A. Mardis), pp. 51–62

How Are Teacher-Librarians Finding Resources for Coursework?: Distance Learners and the Role of University Library Services.

Abstract Providing distance learners access to library services does not automatically translate into usage of those resources. The literature on information-seeking behaviour of distance learners has indicated that they prefer to use local resources, as well as Web-based resources. This study investigates perspectives on library services and available resources for distance learners in the Teacher-Librarianship by Distance Learning program at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. The findings suggest that distance learners in this program tend to rely on local and familiar resources, have a lack of awareness or understanding of certain library services provided to them, rely heavily on electronic full-text availability, and may feel isolated from fellow students, resulting in low collaboration in the process of accessing information. The researchers suggest developing effective marketing strategies and collaborating with faculty to promote usage of library services provided to distance learners.