This paper describes and analyses a method of self- and cohort-directed design of research training tutorials for final-year research-oriented undergraduate students at the University of Queensland, Australia. The design methodology centered on a research skills self-assessment document used at the university, and utilized Personal Response System…

Primary source research requires students to acquire specialized research skills. This paper presents results from a user study testing the effectiveness of a Web guide designed to convey the concepts behind "primary source literacy". The study also evaluated students' strengths and weaknesses when conducting primary source research. (Contains 3…

Three perspectives on the redesign and implementation of a master's level social studies seminar are offered. Research-based writing was used to build information literacy skills and foster teachers' professionalism. Assessments indicate that students improved research and writing skills, increased their sense of teaching efficacy, and enhanced…

Stoan's distinction between library skills and research skills based on different philosophies of information seeking suggests the value of training in research methodology for the librarian. Such training could lead to more effective patron consultations, committee/administrative work, and personal research. Thus, a convenience sample of…

This study investigated pre-college (K-12) and present day library use and perceptions of research for 105 U.S.-educated first-year Latino undergraduates (generation 1.5). Data were collected through focus groups and an electronic survey. Results suggest K-12 library use and information literacy development are correlated. Research skills were…

This case study reports on the use of Web-based research portfolios in an information literacy course. It offers a model for teaching research skills in a structured and incremental way that can promote student centered learning and facilitate authentic assessment.

A qualitative study of a group of traditionally aged undergraduate students showed their reliance on content relevance and familiarity when making source selection decisions. Credibility, convenience, and format/type were also frequently mentioned criteria. Students' year in school influenced their selection criteria and format preference.

How do you engage faculty in the task of developing student information literacy? This case study offers a model for incorporating information retrieval into a social science research project so that literacy becomes an intrinsic part of the course assignment. Students showed significant gains in database search and assessment skills with minimal…

Discusses the role of the academic library in the support of nontraditional students, and offers several suggestions for effectively reacquainting these students with the library and developing their research skills. (CLB)

Describes the Research Assistance Program that was developed for African American undergraduates to improve their library research skills. Topics include cognitive style of African American students; and skill objectives, including formulating a research topic, effective search strategies, discernment and source equivalence, and information…

Discussion of the difficulties undergraduates have with the research process focuses on the research process of scholars and suggests guiding questions for students to ask. Highlights include finding a topic and its focus; selecting a search method; the role of the librarian; and evaluating Web sites. (Author/LRW)

Reports on a study of the attitudes toward and skills in conducting library research among undergraduate library assistants. The use of focus groups and individual interviews is described; theories of undergraduate research behavior are discussed; and further research is suggested. (Contains eight references.) (LRW)

This essay addresses the serious problem for bibliographic instruction programs posed by teaching faculty who possess few skills in library research. Discussion covers faculty and student experience with bibliographic research, the bookish professor and other myths, difficulties of library instruction, and implications for future planning.…

Describes a library-based instructional module for first-year athletes as part of a program motivated by accreditation agencies, public concern, and NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) standards to ensure the academic success of college athletes. The development and implementation of the bibliographic instruction sessions are…

Reviews issues cited in "A Nation at Risk" and other studies calling for educational reform, and discusses the role of libraries in general, and academic libraries in particular, in improving education in the United States. Library programs at three universities, involving information literacy, research skills, and peer counseling, are…