INFORMed ELP Trudi Knight, Maggie Leharne, Gwen Seabrook Smith University of Greenwich

Setting the scene Why is e-learning important to librarians? E-learning has changed the nature of professional engagement between librarians and users Increasingly learning is taking place online and at a distance More electronic resources are in use than ever before

The ELP project To develop an online information skills module: To enhance the induction sessions provided by Academic Services Librarians to on- campus students To promote the development of the OSCARS service for off-campus students To offer an out of hours service to both groups

Tools for delivery INFORMS database and Project website supported by blog

INFORMS project objectives Develop the information seeking skills of both academic staff and students Raise the awareness of the resources available through the Information Environment Enable and provide support for re-using content and learning objects Develop the skills and knowledge of librarians (pedagogical and technical)

Reasons for employing e-learning Face to face tuition is not readily available for off-campus students Additional support for those that miss induction sessions or want to refresh their memories about what was taught Interactivity will consolidate learning as well as improving confidence and increasing self- sufficiency

Benefits Accommodates different levels of understanding Activity based, learner centred, flexible Around-the-clock accessibility Equity of resources and support

Project deliverables Three bite-sized units covering : An introduction to Library information Using the Library catalogue Locating and evaluating information on the Internet

Assessment Checking progress through self- assessment No time limits or usage restrictions Guidance will be made available post- implementation to reinforce learning and direct students to the most appropriate units

Moving ELP on The first units will be launched in September 2005 following testing and evaluation by Academic Services Librarians and OSCAR volunteers Units will be freely available to all staff and students throughout their time at the University The module will be submitted to LS management for consideration as part of a future LS information literacy strategy

Moving ELP further on Evaluation, selection and customisation of more Informs units Publicity and incorporation into induction strategy Investigation of possibility of publishing units in alternative formats e.g. WebCT, HTML

Contact: Trudi Knight Maggie Leharne Gwen Seabrook Smith