Regular and timely instruction in the use of the library and other learning/information resources is available to users through a variety of sources.
Instruction in the Use of the University of Memphis Libraries
The University of Memphis Libraries’ (UML) goal is to “develop, promote, and deliver instructional services and resources to meet changing user needs.” [1] In addition to individual instruction provided at the public services desks of the McWherter Library and five branch libraries, the UML maintains a formal instruction program. Group instruction is offered in two state-of-the-art electronic classrooms in the Ned R. McWherter Library. [2] Librarians also make presentations in classrooms across campus, travel to satellite campuses to provide in-person instruction to classes, and teach remote groups via the computer. Libraries' statistics indicate that 3,787 persons received instruction in 109 separate group settings in FY 2001-2002.
Additional access to instruction in the use of the Libraries is provided to users through multiple sites on the Libraries’ Website. [3] The Research and Teaching Resources page, for instance, provides in-depth explanations of how to find books, periodicals, and articles in periodicals; how to read a citation; how to extract information; and how to conduct literary research. [4]
Instruction in the Use of the Cecil C. Humphreys' School of Law Library
Students enrolled in the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law are required to take two semesters of a legal methods course that introduces them to basic legal resources. The reference staff of the Law Library gives individual instruction to students, faculty, and the public. The Law Library website provides access to a variety of legal links and electronic databases. [5]
Instruction in the Use of Information Technology
Students, faculty, and staff may obtain instruction in the use of information resources via three channels. First, the Advanced Learning Center (ALC) conducts periodic classes in the use of advanced technology for faculty and students. [6] Second, the UofM has purchased access to computer based testing resources from an on-line service, Element K, which provides extensive self-paced learning modules for a wide variety of software packages. [7] Finally, the LSPs (Local Support Providers) give one-on-one instruction to faculty in the use of software packages specific to the departments for which they are responsible. [8]
In addition, trained student workers are available to give one-on-one help in the two 24-hour labs on campus and in the various smaller computer labs that are open on a more restricted schedule. [9] Telephone assistance is available to all users via the HelpDesk and additional support is available online via the Information Technology Division web pages. [10]
Statistics for FY 2002-2003 show frequent use by students, faculty, and staff:
Element K Usage
- over 11,811 hours were logged by users
- 1,399 enrolled users
- 586 active users
- 2,385 courses attended
- 375 courses completed
Advanced Learning Center
- 750 instructional hours in instructor-led sessions for Microsoft Office applications, Adobe PageMaker, Introduction to University of Memphis Resources, and Netscape Communicator suite (which includes Netscape Composer, Netscape Messenger, Netscape Calendar, and Netscape Navigator)
- 450 instructional hours in instructor-led sessions for WebCT Course Management Training
- 48 instructional hours in instructor-led sessions for the Regents Online Degree Program (RODP) Faculty Training
In addition, the ALC's Faculty Resource Center provides "drop-in" assistance throughout the day. [6] Faculty and staff may also request “house call” assistance from ALC graduate assistants. [11] Finally, the ALC's fiscal year 2003-2004 annual report demonstrates the range of training and development activities offered to the campus community. [12]
3.4.1
