Usability testing that includes people who are fluent in assistive technology is an important way to ensure that digital products meet the needs of all users. In settings such as universities, with highly distributed content creator networks and vast differences in project sizes and scopes, it can be challenging for non-experts to find and use the…

Oakland University (OU) Libraries undertook an assessment of how to leverage its resources to make online tutorials more focused on users' needs. A multi-part assessment process reconsidered Web tutorials offerings through the lenses of faculty and staff feedback, literature review, and an analysis of other universities' online tutorial offerings.…

The absence of a well-defined space for library resources within course-management systems has been well documented in library literature. Academic libraries have sought to remedy this deficiency in numerous ways. This article describes how a "library nugget," or module, was added to the Buffalo State College course-management system,…

Three academic librarians from different departments at the Auraria Library--instruction, systems, and technical services--share a common methodology to teach students, academic faculty, and colleagues. These librarians use screencasting as an essential and creative technique to instruct all users. Patrons receive greater value when the authors…

Early in his library career, John Shank realized that not only were students choosing Internet resources over library, resources, but Faculty members were, too. Shank is now widely recognized as a librarian who's likely to change that. In his current positions as instructional design librarian at Penn State Berks--Lehigh Valley College and…

Explains how Rutgers University libraries have been experimenting with platforms in which more complex Web database technology can be reused by designing generic software functions and a generic database. Describes a platform for collecting and cataloging Web sites for an undergraduate course in history. (LRW)

Describes the development and administration of a computerized test at the Iowa State University Library for a mandatory library skills class. Discusses the use of Authorware; test appearance and environment; test administration; compiling test scores; results of students' evaluations; Web courseware; and future of the computerized test. (LRW)

To help instructors teach students basic information retrieval skills, librarians at the University of Toledo (OH) developed a bibliographic instruction program, "Teach the Teachers," to be used in the English department's composition classes. This article discusses the development of the program and cooperation between librarians and…

Discussion of Web-based learning environments and asynchronous learning networks for on-campus and distance education focuses on the role of academic libraries. Topics include library involvement in courseware development decisions, integration with library systems, and librarian attitudes and observations compared to those of faculty. (Contains…

This review of the literature describes a number of ways in which microcomputers are being used to improve instruction. A discussion of types of software being used in instructional settings focuses primarily on the use of word processing programs by both instructors and students in writing. Descriptions of types of computer software that may be…

Describes the instructional technology support program at Cornell University's Mann Library (New York) that integrates the print and digital libraries. Highlights include the gateway system, information literacy skills, geographic information systems, courseware, the instructional design laboratory, consulting service, delivering course materials…

This paper describes the design and development of a multimedia program that provides instruction in locating, evaluating and citing information in a university library. The use of interactive multimedia for instruction is also discussed. The program was developed by a collaborative team of instructional designers, content experts, and media…

Describes library services available to distance learners at the Rochester Institute of Technology's library. Highlights include courseware products; subject specialists; electronic course reserves; interlibrary loan; research databases; online library instruction, including online guides, streamed instruction, and computer based training for…

Describes Project FORE (Focus on Research and Evaluation), a hypermedia program developed at Utah State University for library use instruction. Topics discussed include guidelines for designing instructional courseware, lesson objectives, recall of prior learning, feedback, enhancing retention and transfer of learning, visual design, learner…

Describes two undergraduate library credit courses using computer-mediated communication. The first focuses on information searching and electronic resources in the students' areas of study. The second teaches basic research skills, the use of Netscape, and the use of e-mail and conferencing software in four areas: library studies; health…