The Olive Tree

The Friends Grant Update
Interactive Tutorials for Students and Researchers

Librarians from both Reference and the Science & Engineering Center are involved with a project which uses Viewlet Builder software, a product purchased with funds from one of last year’s Fogler Library Friends grants. The goal of the project is to develop a series of online, interactive tutorials covering resources for students and researchers from all areas of UMaine. Users will be able to access the tutorials from any computer; they will also be available as a CD ROM.
The first prototype was designed for students in BUA 363, Network Design and Applications. The tutorial takes them through the entire research process, from choosing the correct subject heading and using Business Source Premier, a popular business resource, to downloading and saving their results. The module includes both sound and animated screen shots, allowing the students to easily follow the process. Nory Jones, UMaine assistant professor of management information systems, agreed to have her students provide feedback for the prototype. Once their suggestions have been incorporated into the design, the module will be made public.
The next two modules will focus on URSUS, the online catalog for the University of Maine System, and Academic Search Premier, a multi-purpose database that is used extensively by undergraduates. Each module will use the same step by step approach, combining screen shots and voice narration to provide a simple stress free way to learn about library resources.


Home | Olive Tree | Summer 2005