30 minute training modules OR
Database training can be fun
ProblemWonderful eResources that are under utilisedCombined library/council service where focus is not
always on library training-and not all staff have library qualifications
Lack of staff awareness of eResources – not good for promoting our service to customers
Lack of staff time for in depth training in library eResources by reference staff
That ‘eyes glazed over’ look from staff at indepth database training sessions
SolutionRecognise/accept that an in depth knowledge of
databases is not required by counter staffDesign training programs to cover the main points of our
eResources that staff can complete in 30 minutes – either when they have off the counter time or in slow periods at the counter
Created on powerpoint using screen shots and commentsYes, we know each database has wonderful help – but we
needed to make it more attractive
Admin stuff At end of each training module staff are required to
answer questions using that resourceQuestions are designed to make them ‘play’ and discover
for themselvesAnswers are emailed to their manager. At the completion
of all of the sessions their training file is updated as it is considered ‘significant on the job training’
Example of questionsMy mum has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Do you have
anything that explains what it is?
I need to pick an event that happened between 200 BCE and 0 CE. Any ideas?
I only like fast paced novels. What do you suggest?
I am looking for the article that was in the Sydney Morning Herald in January 2003 written by the late Peter Roebuck about Steve Waugh’s century at the SCG.
Please email the result to yourmanager@their email address with ‘Consumer Health Training Completed’ in the subject line
Hurdles Had to choose the main points of the database- as
reference staff we think they are all main points! Overcoming the ‘I am too busy’ mentalityWhen creating the files the default save is alphabetical.
This meant that Academic search elite was first – not good for those staff who are not confident or happy trainees! To overcome this they were saved in a manner that reflects what counter staff are more likely to use on an everyday basis
What staff see first now
Includes find legal answers and drug info websites
Under databases for everyday use - in the order of what we see as most relevant to daily use by counter staff
This is the first
session – many
staff are not aware of the
full range
of produc
ts
These databases are considered slightly more advanced
ResultsStaff who have completed the training modules report
they are more confident in promoting them to customersAs a consequence of that, database usage has improved
(ok slightly, but we will take it)Staff who have completed the modules have been
overheard promoting the training to reluctant staffTraining modules have been improved/altered as a result
of staff feedback
Ongoing concernsWhilst most staff have been great in taking up the
training challenge some staff and managers still see training as a low priority – this needs to be constantly challenged
Every time a database interface changes the modules will have to be updated! (thank you NoveList Plus)
We are: Information Services Manager Susan Manahan [email protected]
Reference Librarian Michelle Goldsmith [email protected]
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