Information Skills Training
The University Library works in partnership with academic colleagues to embed information skills into the student curriculum wherever possible. Research shows that skills are learned most effectively when delivered in context and at the point of need.Here are some examples of face to face sessions which we offer to support students throughout their learning.
Sessions take place either in the Library training rooms or elsewhere on campus where internet access is available
Get in touch with your Faculty Liaison Librarian to arrange dates and times.
An Introduction to the Digital Library
Generally aimed at first year students who are using Library resources for the first time and ideally timed to coincide with a first assignment.
Sessions focussed on specific resources or topics.
For example:
A session focussed on using key databases relevant to a particular subject area such as Law or Health.
Or:
A session focussed on a particular theme or topic such as Finding and Using Journals or How to plan a literature search.
Sessions to support an assignment
Sessions are usually most effective when related to a specific assignment so that the student can see that being able to find information more effectively can potentially improve the quality of their work. This session can be useful at any level.
Research skills & support for dissertation/final project students.
Many pathways include a Research Methods/Final Project module. The library can provide sessions to help students to plan and carry out effective literature searches.
Students can also arrange either individual or small group appointments with a specialist librarian to discuss their own particular needs in relation to their topic.
Referencing and Refworks
Most of our library sessions include some advice on referencing and plagiarism, but we also offer dedicated sessions on this topic and on using RefWorks bibliographic management software which is freely available via our website to all staff and students
Independent learners: supporting off-campus students.
Many of our students are not studying at one of our main campuses and are therefore not able to attend face to face sessions in the Library. Others may prefer to study independently.
We are therefore developing equivalent support to these students via the Library web site through a variety of online guides and other materials. We are also able to work with you to embed content in to the VLE.
Our interactive online information tutorial PILOT is freely available and can assist students with understanding how to find the information they need to support their studies.