School of Information Management · Te Kura Tiaki, Whakawhiti Kōrero: MIS, MLIS, and MIM Research Papers

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Open Access
Audiovisual and Chill: An Evaluation of Video Digital Libraries and Catalogues
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2016) Gordon, Timothy Dean
Research Problem: This research investigates how well video digital libraries and catalogues used in academic libraries meet user expectations. This is in the context of increasing use and demand for online audiovisual content by the wider community, as well as growing use of audiovisual materials for teaching, learning, and research at academic institutions. It also aims to give an understanding of how well libraries are meeting the challenges of delivering audiovisual materials to users in an on-demand world. Methodology: Twelve platforms—developed between 1996 and 2015—are evaluated against 23 user-centred criteria, divided into four core areas: retrieval functionality, user interface, collection qualities, and user support. Results: The study found that not one of the platforms evaluated met all the evaluation criteria, and identified three key areas in the usability of the video digital libraries and catalogues: search and retrieval, technology, and structure, scope, and strategy. Implications: From this we gain an understanding of performance and usability of video digital libraries and catalogues currently in use by academic libraries. We also learn about the difficulties those working with audiovisual materials are facing, and also of the solutions that are being proposed. Findings of this study could help influence decision making, development of future platforms, and influence policies for delivering audiovisual materials to users.
Open Access
Barriers to uptake and use of data sharing systems at the University of Auckland - Identification of differences in researcher and academic librarian perceptions
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2016) Simons, Joanne Leigh
Research Problem: To identify the differences in researcher and academic librarian perception of barriers to the uptake of data sharing systems by researchers at the University of Auckland in order to address all possible barriers during implementation and improve researcher use of new systems. Methodology: This study has a cross-sectional research design, using a mixed methods research strategy, in particular a sequential exploratory design where preliminary interviews with researchers and academic librarians informed the construction of an online survey tool distributed more widely to researchers and academic librarians within the University of Auckland. Statistical significance testing was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: 103 survey responses were received from researchers, and 18 from academic librarians. There were observable differences in the relative impact assigned by researchers and librarians to the various factors that influence researcher decisions to share data. There are also significant differences in the perceptions of barriers to data-sharing between research disciplines. Implications: There may be a need to improve communications between the library and researchers with regards to the tools and services that they can offer. Library staff may need additional training in support of University researchers, as a proportion did not feel confident answering questions about researcher data-sharing. The research discipline differences in perceptions of barriers to data-sharing mean that a “one-size fits all” strategy for education in and marketing of these services will not be the most effective strategy to address concerns and increase researcher engagement.
Open Access
Distance students: Finding information and help for coursework
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2015) Atkinson, Lucy; Liew, Chern Li
Advances in web technology continue to effect dynamic change in the delivery of tertiary Distance education and academic library services in New Zealand. Alongside this rapid evolution it is important to understand the corresponding changes to the course-related information needs of Distance students. While increased online availability of information is beneficial for Distance students, their demographic profile and study mode can create unique challenges, requiring tailored support to ensure they are able to utilise resources to the same level as on-campus students. This small-scale survey of Distance students and librarians at the University of Otago investigated provision, perceptions and use of course-related information resources. The results, although limited, contribute to knowledge about the information and library help-seeking needs of Distance students. The findings illustrate the value of both online library resources and the ‘personal’ nature of targeted support for students. Librarians collaborate with teaching staff to place library resources in virtual learning environments and to deliver targeted library instruction at appropriate points. Areas identified for further research include the technological barriers that Distance students still face and how a personalised library service can be provided in response to student needs and as a measurable contribution to ensuring student retention and course completion.
Open Access
An Exploration of Disciplinary Differences in the Use of Talis at the University of Auckland
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2016) Beasley, Rose
Research problem: Resource list management systems (RLMSs) have recently seen a significant increase in popularity, but previous research has not fully explored the differences in uptake of these systems in different academic disciplines within a university setting. This research addresses this problem by identifying and exploring these differences in two academic faculties at the University of Auckland. Methodology: This research was focussed on Semester 1 2016, and used a mixed-methods case study approach comprised of statistics generated from the virtual learning environment, Canvas, and Talis, the RLMS implemented at the University of Auckland. Seven semi-structured interviews were then conducted with a range of Subject Librarians and academic staff, and the results were analysed and themes identified. Results: Three main themes in the uptake of Talis were identified – individual resistance, organisational approach, and disciplinary need. Disciplinary need was found to be the main factor affecting academic use of Talis. Implications: This research adds to the body of knowledge surrounding RLMS implementations, and may offer some insights to other universities implementing similar systems. Future research could take the form of wider studies looking at a larger range of disciplines, or more generalizable studies focussed on testing the findings discussed here.
Open Access
Exploring the Postgraduate Experience of Library eBooks
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2016) Turnbull, Madelene Bria
Research Problem: In 2013 and 2014 surveys of the University of Otago student population, eBooks fell below the mean as a service that was meeting the needs of the above third year student group. The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of using library eBooks from the perspective of postgraduate students, in order to identify factors which may be contributing to this service failing to meet student’s needs. Methodology: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight University of Otago postgraduate students, across disciplines and levels of postgraduate study. The interview data was analysed using a thematic analysis methodology to identify overarching themes. The interview data was compared and contrasted against findings from the existing research. Results: Although the sample size for this study was small and did not include as many students from across all disciplines as was desired, the results still contribute to the understanding of the experience of using library eBooks for University of Otago postgraduate students. The findings illustrate how eBooks are accessed and used by students and have led to the following suggestions for changes to this library service: that there is a need and desire for an online training and support tool for using eBooks – especially the advanced features, that the 7 day loan limit on some eBooks is not long enough for postgraduate students, and that postgraduate students want to use DRM free eBooks that can be downloaded in PDF format. Implications: Areas identified for further research include further exploration of this topic with postgraduate students from outside of the humanities, exploration of how the undergraduate experience of eBooks compares to the postgraduate experience, and reasons for and implications of a preference to use Google Scholar by students.
Open Access
Geographic Information Systems and Geospatial Data in New Zealand and Australian Academic Libraries
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2016) Smith, Michael; Liew, Chern Li
Research problem: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) offer a means of gathering, viewing, managing and analysing spatial information. Technological changes are making GIS more widely accessible to researchers in many disciplines. Academic libraries have responded to growing demand by implementing GIS support services. Little research has been undertaken regarding GIS services provided by academic libraries in New Zealand and Australia. This research project aimed to discover the extent and nature of GIS services offered and librarians’ perceptions regarding factors influencing implementation of library GIS services. Methodology: A quantitative study was carried out of tertiary academic libraries in New Zealand and Australia. 78 academic libraries or library networks were invited to complete an online questionnaire regarding GIS services in their library and wider institution. Results: 17 libraries (22%) completed the survey. 59% of surveyed academic libraries offer one or more GIS services. These are primarily university libraries at larger institutions. Non-university libraries offer few GIS services. Services relating to geospatial data management and information literacy are the most frequently offered. The implementation of new GIS services is driven primarily by stakeholder demand, while lack of demand, library staff knowledge of GIS and funding are the main barriers to implementation of new GIS services. Implications: Academic libraries in the region need to be aware of the growth of GIS in academia and responsive to the needs of GIS users by monitoring demand for GIS services and introducing tailored, relevant and sustainable GIS services.
Open Access
How do student-sole-parents experience the tertiary library?
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2016) Barnes, Joanne Kim
Research problem: The objective of this research study is to explore the experience of student-sole-parents within a 'no-children in the library' tertiary library environment and the impact this has upon their ability to engage in compulsory course work, as well as the effects this policy has upon their study goals. Methodology: Using qualitative research method, in-depth interviewing was used as a research tool to enquire into how six, full-time students who are also sole-parents experience the library service. Results: Key findings of this study show that a no-children-in-the-library policy statement is problematic, in varying degrees, for full-time students who are also sole-parents as it, depending upon the ages of the student’s dependents and availability of personal support, (1) poses a barrier that hinders access to library resources and services that facilitate and support study activities, and allow engagement with learning material and partnering with library staff to develop information literacy and (2) diminishes their study experience. Implications: This is a single, small qualitative study and the results can only relate to Unitec Institute of Technology, Waitākere campus. This study is of interest to those concerned with academic libraries who are (1) seeking to understand how their library’s policy regarding children in the library and study-room and other resources allocation may be affecting student-sole-parents and (2) seeking ways to improves student-sole-parent’s access and interaction with their library.
Open Access
International Postgraduate Students’ use of Academic Libraries: At the Auckland University of Technology and in their Home Countries
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2017) Venning, Scott
Research problem: Given the importance of international postgraduate students to the New Zealand tertiary education sector and the the focus on research from Government it is critical that they are supported by the institutions they attend. The goal of this study is to understand the perceptions and experiences that international postgraduate students have of academic libraries in their own countries and how this may affect their experience at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Library. Methodology: The study employs a qualitative methodology involving eight semi-structured interviews. Postgraduate students studying at the AUT were interviewed, four from China and four from India. Hofstede’s theory of cultural dimensions has been employed to clarify and support the findings. Result: The international postgraduate students’ experiences of academic libraries in their home countries when compared to that of the AUT Library are very different. The library experience in India and China was less central to the learning experience where as at AUT, the Library offers a wide range of different types of support which were found to be well used by the study’s participants. Geert Hofstede’s cultural dimensions supports the findings when comparing the three cultures, India, China and New Zealand in the educational context. Implications: This research adds to the body of knowledge surrounding the understanding of international students’ experiences in New Zealand. It is hope it can assist academic libraries in New Zealand understand international postgraduate students’ unique perspective and tailor services to their requirements. Future research could focus on particular services utilised by postgraduate international students or on different faculty.
Open Access
An investigation into usage of, and attitudes towards, e-books for academic study among tertiary students in New Zealand
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2015) Wilkinson, Clive; Chawner, Brenda
Research problem E-books provide enormous benefits to libraries and academic libraries in New Zealand have been quick to develop their e-book collections. The implications of the move from print to digital resources are of critical importance to the future of academic libraries. Little research has been done in this country, however, about the usage of, and attitudes towards e-books in an academic setting. This research aimed to add to this understanding, while at the same time provided the University of Waikato Library with information that will help service provision with regard to e-books. Methodology A quantitative study was carried out with a sample of students from the University of Waikato to achieve a wide range of responses across faculties and types of student through a combination of online and hard copy questionnaire. Respondents were drawn from the student population of the University of Waikato. The University has over 12,000 students including over 1700 postgraduates. Results There were 104 completed questionnaires. Compared to previous research, this study has found that students at the University of Waikato seem to have greater awareness of e-books, use e-books more, and have much higher levels of satisfaction with the ease of finding and using e-books. Many respondents were positive about e-books, mainly due to perceived convenience, but, when it comes to preference for book format, this study suggests that users retain a preference for print material. Implications Academic libraries in New Zealand, quick to develop their e-book collections, need to be aware that, although knowledge of, and usage of e-books both seem to have increased rapidly in recent years, user preference remains resolutely in favour of print books. Further research is needed in other academic institutions in New Zealand to develop a more complete picture of student usage and attitudes towards e-books.
Restricted
Pacific Students and Their Perceptions of an Academic Library: a Case Study of Whitireia Community Polytechnic
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2011) Hinder, Audrey Therese
While more Pacific students are participating in tertiary education, there is little research on the information behaviour of this group in the academic library. As the primary function of the academic library is to support the learning needs of the student community, it is of interest to investigate how Pacific students use libraries and information resources available to them during their course of study. Using a qualitative case study approach, the aim of this study is to begin to understand Pacific students’ experiences of the library at Whitireia Community Polytechnic. This study investigates how they use the library, their perceptions of the library and how it may contribute to their academic success. Key findings of this study show that students generally had a positive experience of the library, using it not just as an information centre but also as a cultural centre. The library was a place for them to find information, a place for them to study and a place for them to meet other Pacific students and classmates whom they worked and studied with in the library. Though this group of participants did not feel that there were any significant cultural barriers to their use of the library, the findings reveal some cultural factors that may affect Pacific students’ use of the library. Though this is a small case study, it provides an understanding of the experience of this group of Pacific students in an academic library. Understanding the information needs and information – seeking behaviour of this group will enable library and academic staff to develop or improve appropriate services so that student learning outcomes may also be improved.
Open Access
Planning for the Future: An evaluation of academic and public library strategic plans in New Zealand
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2017) McKay, Andrew Stewart
Research problem: This study does not consider the strategic planning process, but looks at the end product of the process – the strategic plan itself. A review of previous international studies suggest that library strategic plans are not always completed or focussed, and thus do not assist the library in its forward planning and advocacy efforts as well as they might. This project aims to establish if the state of strategic plans in New Zealand is similar and, if so, provide guidance for their future development. Methodology: The methodology for the research project was two-fold. The first part consisted of a content analysis to identify key strategic terms, issues and priorities from among the strategic plans. In the second part, a prescriptive analytical framework was applied to the core components of each strategic plan in order to measure the level of completeness. The overall sample size was 33 library strategic plans, comprised of 25 public and 8 academic plans. Results: The results from the first part of the study showed a high prevalence of strategic terminology across the library plans. The academic library plans used terms that reflected more future oriented thinking. In comparison, the public library plans used more performance based terminology. The second part of the study highlighted a general lack of ‘completeness’ across the plans, particularly the public library plans, when measured against a traditional strategic planning framework. The areas of priority facing libraries included staff, collections development and improving technological capabilities. Implications: This study addresses a gap in the existing literature as no prior research has been conducted on the level of completeness of library strategic plans in New Zealand. The findings from this study can be used to help in the formulation of future strategic plans for New Zealand libraries, including areas of current strength and improvement. Suggestions for future research studies include conducting qualitative research among library management to better understand their use of strategic planning methodologies in the development of their strategic plans. In addition, an analysis that compares a series of plans over a period of time could also be explored to understand evolutionary patterns in strategic planning development within the library sector.
Open Access
Study of mobile learning implementation and staff training in academic libraries in New Zealand
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2016) Kim, Heera
Research problem: Mobile devices are deeply embedded in our daily life. This research explored how academic libraries are using mobile devices as teaching and learning tools in delivering information literacy to students. Methodology: To identify current practices of mobile devices in teaching information literacy and perceptions of staff development opportunities for staff, semi structured interviews were conducted with eight academic librarians across universities and Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs). Interviews were then transcribed for emerging themes. Results: This research found that implementation of mobile devices in delivering information literacy was very limited in academic libraries. Currently, there are initiatives to provide contents in mobile-friendly web design. Results also showed staff development opportunities to foster m-learning in delivering information literacy were limited and mostly driven by enthusiasts within the institution. Implications: M-learning enables learners to engage in learning with other learners whilst fostering personalized learning, accessing resources they need when they need it using mobile devices (Conradie, 2014). This research has found there are gaps and limitations in support from the libraries, infrastructural needs and training opportunities that needs to be taken into consideration for any libraries that are planning to implement m-learning into teaching information literacy. Examining the needs of their learners and librarians may provide more accurate vision of gaps and limitations that needs improvement.
Open Access
Understanding the experience of smaller New Zealand academic libraries implementing discovery systems
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2017) Philp, Heather Jean
Research problem: For smaller academic libraries that are considering implementing web-scale discovery, there is a lack of relevant literature specific to their context which library directors can use to guide their decision making. This research project addresses this gap by exploring the experiences of selected small and medium-sized academic libraries in New Zealand that have implemented web-scale discovery. Methodology: The research uses a multiple-case study method to study three small or medium-sized academic libraries. Six participants were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Themes were identified from the transcripts, and compared using cross-case analysis. Results: The participants identified several benefits from their discovery system, including making searching easier and more intuitive for students, and increasing use of electronic resources. However, they also experienced challenges in terms of changing roles for staff and increased workloads for those dealing with technical issues. The research identified specific challenges for very small libraries implementing web-scale discovery without in-house technical support. Implications: Although the research is exploratory, it provides some recommendations which can assist directors of smaller academic libraries in making decisions about this technology. Further research over a wider range of institutions would be valuable to confirm the findings. The report also identifies the importance of staff of smaller libraries sharing their experiences of discovery systems.
Restricted
Usage and Impact Factor Correlations in Electronic Journals
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2009) Shepheard-Walwyn, Emma Jane; Smith, Alastair G.
This research explores the level of correlation between electronic journal usage and ISI Impact Factors that may justify Impact Factors to be used as a collection management tool. The study utilised ISI's Journal Use Report and Journal Citation Reports to gather data in the areas of History, Linguistics, Political Science, Environmental Science, Mathematics, Physics (Applied), Economics, Information Science & Library Science, Management and Law. A slight positive correlation was found for several disciplines with two disciplines displaying a small negative correlation. The study concluded that the levels of correlation were not significant enough to enable ISI Impact Factors to be used in isolation as an effective collection management decision-making tool. Several issues were identified as possible factors in the level of correlation found: articles downloaded and not used, the limited number of titles subscribed to by VUW, the lack of New Zealand and Australasian titles, the interdisciplinary nature or limited focus of some titles and the research and teaching focus of VUW. The study concludes that Impact Factors may be of use as an evaluation tool for academic libraries, but that they should be used in combination with a number of other factors discussed. A number of areas for further research are also identified.
Open Access
Using social media for student engagement: A study of two New Zealand academic libraries
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2019) Rehman, Rida Noor; Malik, Rida Noor
Research Purpose: This research is an exploration of the content created for social media by two New Zealand academic libraries: Auckland University of Technology libraries and Massey University libraries. It analyses the content of the posts these libraries create for engaging students in conversations on Facebook and Instagram. The likes and comments on the posts are also analysed to better understand student engagement through social media. Methodology: A content analysis method was applied for this study. An inductive approach was applied to analyse the posts and comments. This was done in the form of coding to find themes that emerge from the posts and comments. Furthermore, likes and comments were recorded to understand the picture that Facebook and Instagram portray of engagement. All the data was analysed quantitatively and qualitatively to get an understanding of student engagement from the profiles of the above-mentioned academic libraries. Results: The posts data showed that both libraries are using social media for promotional purposes to engage students. AUT library had more thankful/complimentary comments despite having a lower number of comments compared to Massey University library because AUT Library are focused on forming connections with the AUT community. The results also shed light on the platform metrics as they don’t add value in our understanding of student engagement. Implications: Based on the findings of this study, this researcher discussed practical strategies for academic libraries to effectively use social media for facilitating student engagement.
Open Access
What Factors Influence Subject Librarians’ Promotion of Open Access Scholarly Resources?
(Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, 2018) Coventry, Donna
Research Problem: In the past twenty years, open access has grown as a movement in the dissemination of, and access to, academic research. This has been in the context of rising subscription costs and constraints in academic library budgets. It is also seen as a more ethical way to broaden access to information. Yet, there is still much ambiguity and misunderstanding around the topic. This study aims to explore the factors influencing New Zealand subject/liaison librarian decisions to promote open access scholarly resources to library clients. Methodology: A quantitative survey was used to collect data. The target population was those who identified themselves as subject/ liaison librarians at a New Zealand university library. The questionnaire included checklist questions, Likert scales and opportunities for comments. Results were coded and descriptive statistics and correlations calculated. Results: Fifty usable surveys were completed. Respondents were all aware of open access, although awareness of the different types was not strong. Over half of respondents had not had formal open access training at work. While most librarians supported open access, it was evident that there was still a lot of caution around it. Most respondents agreed that it was in the scope of their role to promote open access and these librarians were more likely to promote or discuss open access with clients. The requirements for scholarly impact and prestige were recognised as barriers for scholarly staff to publish open access however generally librarians who support open access still promoted it to academic staff. Implications: The results show much ambiguity about open access types and concepts. A key recommendation is for academic libraries to address the training of librarians in open access. Few respondents had had formal open access training at work yet the results show that understanding open access underpins its frequent promotion.

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