InfoZone

A blended Induction: developing Information literacy from the start!

Lorna Clarke&

Helen BellLilac 2008

Edge Hill Overview

• Previously used video, demonstration, hands on

• Induction to library catalogue and computer network

• Separate WebCT sessions but not as standard

• Info skills sessions for some not all

• Big booklets

Why we changed

• Equity of access for all students

• Increasing numbers of students off-campus

• Greater use of the VLE

• Greater emphasis on a ‘joined up’ approach to academic skills development – bringing them together in one resource

• Need to develop Information literacy and lifelong learning skills

• Reprographic nightmare!

What we did

• Looked at how we delivered induction, Information skills and introduction to WebCT

• Multi-professional team approach

• Decided on a blended approach to optimise the learning experience

• Use WebCT as the medium

What InfoZone looks like

InfoZone content

1. Using this resource – introduction and how to navigate your way through

2. Learning@Edge Hill – campus maps, buildings, opening hours, UNIcard

3. Off Campus – help and support for off campus and distance learners

4. Using the library catalogue – how to access books, journals and online resources

5. Skills and support -  support with essay writing, study support and SpLD

6. Tool to print off individual sections of the resource

What learners do in InfoZone

• Campus maps• Videos• Quizzes using Hot Potatoes• Camtasia (screen casting software) used to

learn about non-web tools and resources• Informs tutorials used for guided searches of live

resources• Links to useful web pages• Access guides and other support materials

What InfoZone aims to do

• Provide an induction to Learning Services

• Provide an introduction to WebCT for all new students

• Support distance, flexible and FE Partner students

• Be interactive – not just online page-turning

• Be a reference tool for duration of course

• Develop information literacy

How InfoZone is delivered

• On campus to all students in a ‘hands-on’ face-to-face session– Simple guide to logging in– Activities to direct use of InfoZone

• Off campus, face to face, or directed to WebCT supported with a printed guide

• Simple enough for self-directed learning

• Tutors direct students in using InfoZone to develop academic study skills

Future developments

• Ongoing review, checking and updating

• Containing generic and subject resources

• Adding Informs to cover a range of databases for each Faculty

• Guided searches for key resources to develop Information and searching skills

• Integration within hands-on workshops

• Move to ‘paperless’ taught sessions

Contact

Lorna Clarke

clarkel@edgehill.ac.uk

Helen Bell

bellh@edgehill.ac.uk

Accessing InfoZone

Go to: http://webct.edgehill.ac.uk

Username: lilac

Password: lilac