Library Instruction: Overview
In order for our students to effectively research a topic they must first
understand how to locate authoritative information. The Libraries of Fairmont
State offer the four specific classes listed below and will gladly design
other classes for special fields of study.
Instruction sessions may include any of the following research components:
1. USING THE LIBRARY CATALOG :
The library catalog is web-based and available from home. It indexes books,
videos, CDs, government documents, and more. Students learn how to form a
search strategy and quickly find the information they need. Students also
learn search tips such as locating specific kinds of resources, requesting
holds, and compiling bibliographies.
2. ACCESSING & USING DATABASES:
Students learn how to explore the many online databases and resources available
through the library's web page. Using their own lab workstation in conjunction
with an online demonstration by one of our librarians, the students will find
out how to effectively locate authoritative journal articles, encyclopedic
information, and Internet sites. They also will learn how to access the databases
off campus so as to use the library’s resources from home or anywhere
that has internet capabilities.
3. WEB SITE EVALUATION & SEARCH ENGINES:
Not all Internet sites are good, much less authoritative and valuable
for academic purposes. This class addresses the growing issue of evaluating
web sites, including how to find the author of a site, determining whether
the author is an authority on the subject, whether information is current,
the differences between search engines, how they work, and how to formulate
an effective search. Students also learn the difference between search
engines and Internet subject directories.
4. TOURS:
Sometimes all that students need is a basic tour of the library to find
out where the books, periodicals, and other resources are located. We
will take them on a walking tour of the library, pointing out important
items and demonstrating how to use specific equipment such as microfilm
machines upon request.
DESIGNING LIBRARY INSTRUCTION FOR SPECIALIZED RESEARCH
We also recognize that different disciplines have particular research needs. In response to those special needs we will design library instruction according to your specifications. Our librarians can demonstrate subject specific databases that your students can use to accomplish their research assignments or instruction your students how to use special programs such as PowerPoint. Please let us know what you need and we will help your students learn how to use the most useful resources available for your assignments.
DESIGNING LIBRARY INSTRUCTION FOR ACADEMIC SCHOOLS AND DEPARTMENTS
We can also design instruction sessions covering any of the library resources list above but designed for you and your academic school’s or department’s particular research and informational needs.
SCHEDULING
For information about these sessions or to schedule one for your class, use the request form on the previous page, or contact Charley Hively (367-4617) or any of the other librarians at 367-4121. Please contact us at least two weeks in advance to allow for proper scheduling and presentation design.
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