The Cephalonian Method Introducing….. The Cephalonian Method USTLG, Aston University, March 9th 2004 Nigel Morgan Information Services, Cardiff University

Why bother revamping our induction? Traditional methods needed revitalising To get information across more effectively Need to grab students attention To inspire ourselves! inject some spontaneity Information Literacy policy

What qualities did we want our induction to have? An interactive format illusion of being “student driven” Interesting, lively, informative, entertaining - attention grabbing! Enjoyable to deliver Careful use of humour A sense of theatricality and unpredictability

Where did we get our inspiration?

    Structure of session Basic introductory information Finding reading list items Services and facilities Miscellaneous      

My Mum’s e-mailed me a photo of Miguel, my pet iguana My Mum’s e-mailed me a photo of Miguel, my pet iguana. Where can I print it out? 2 PC rooms (24 hour access) Microsoft applications Subject databases Internet & e-mail access Network printing accounts Laser printing (b&w) - 6p per A4 sheet Strict list of priorities for using these PCs. Notices in Biomed and in PC1. Email has the lowest priority. Use of databases and word processing / spreadsheet for course / project work have the highest priority. You will asked to give up a pc if you are e-mailing and other need to work. Networked printing from any PC Charge you account up - machines for this in Main College and Bute.

What if I don’t renew or bring the stuff back on time? 2 week loan - 20p / day 1 week loan - £1 / day One day items - £1 / day If I don’t bring my loans back on time or bother to renew them will you be sending round the ‘heavy mob’? You will be asked to pay a fine, & you won’t be able to use your account until you’ve paid it. (Hold up examples of each loan period & stress fines)

What really irritates us? Eating & drinking Excessive noise Personal stereos Loud talkers Theft Mobile phones ! Mobile phones !! Mobile phones !!! Library staff have a responsibility to ensure that everyone has the chance to work in a quiet and pleasant environment. eg no litter, pools of coffee or coke, no noise talking / etc Stop you eating & drinking, using phones & stereos. No talking in the journals area or the reading room. Staff & researchers - show them & your colleagues some consideration. Valuables, take them with you. Fire alarm is a loud siren / klaxon. if you hear this, please leave by the nearest exit and assemble on the grass outside main college.

What are the advantages of the Cephalonian method? A good icebreaker Works well with large groups Encourages interaction and discussion within small groups Allows the presenter to be creative! no two sessions are ever the same Achieved our objectives

Feedback & Evaluation Student Comments: “Really good idea, made it more fun to watch presentation” “Very well presented..loved it….Bravo!” “It was immense!!” “It was a bit weird” “More about Miguel please…I feel I know that iguana”

“Did you think that this session provided an effective introduction to the library?” Yes 97% No 0% Don’t Know 3%

“Do you think it will be beneficial to attend the next info skills session?” Yes 79% No 3% Don’t Know 13% No Response 5%

The Cephalonian Method Introducing….. The Cephalonian Method USTLG, Aston University, March 9th 2004 Nigel Morgan Information Services, Cardiff University