RE-SKILLING LIBRARIANS: AN E-LEARNING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Mark A. Pegrum & Ralph Kiel
University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA

Aims:

The study focuses on an inaugural E-learning Course designed to meet the professional development needs of librarians in the area of online learning, with particular reference to web 2.0. It evaluates the impact of the course on librarians and the library, as well as identifying possible areas for improvement.

Methods:

The course evaluation was conducted according to the 'Kirkpatrick four level evaluation' model. Comments on the course wiki were used to identify reactions and provide evidence of learning. A participant survey further illuminated the extent of learning and the nature of changes in on-the-job behaviour, while a focus group clarified issues raised in the survey. Participants' e-learning projects clearly demonstrated the results of the programme.

Results:

Overall, participants' reactions were positive. Comments on the wiki showed they were stimulated by the course and that learning had occurred. The survey showed that new knowledge and skills were applied in the workplace, often moulded to fit the context of use. Some of the e-learning projects have proven to be highly successful and participants now have a common 'language' to express their thoughts on e-learning, as they continue to improve existing online library courses and create new ones.

Conclusion:

The study showed that the E-learning Course has changed how library online courses are designed and delivered. Substantial changes have been made as a result of participants' practical projects. Accordingly, the E-learning Course will be offered to a further cohort of librarians and other relevant staff in late 2008.

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