A Learning Package to Support Postgraduate Students as Researchers

Information Search Methods at http://www.library.unisa.edu.au/ resmeth/ is a web-based tutorial to support the learning and research needs of postgraduate students. It recognises postgraduate students as researchers who need knowledge and understanding of library research to underpin their subject specific study or research. It teaches by example while encouraging the student to use the tutorial as a guide for the research topic. This focus on the learning needs of postgraduates and other adult learners distinguishes it from many other web-based library tutorials. The content of Information Search Methods is directly based on the 'Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education' developed by the US Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL). By using the Standards, together with a broad definition of the term 'databases', the tutorial presents a holistic approach to library research. Quality control mechanisms in the development of the web-based tutorial were provided by the creation of learning and instructional design criteria. The use of freestanding modules provides a generic basis for the teaching and learning of library research skills across the University.