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Library Instruction: Types of Instruction

Learn about Viterbo University's library instruction program, and then schedule a session.

Instruction

Librarians offer formal library instruction to all Viterbo University classes, whether they are face-to-face, blended, or online. 

There are different levels of instruction offered. Core and general education courses often require library orientation and tours, account registration, and basic catalog and database searching. Upper level and graduate courses often require advanced researching instruction.  Examples of instruction are given below, but sessions can be tailored to your specifications.

Types of Library Instruction


Introduction to the Library and Resources:

We offer a library tour followed by time in the library instruction lab (MC240). We cover basic use of the library as well as how to search for, request, and retrieve materials. Concepts covered may include:​​​

  • Library tour and overview of services (computers, printing, resource locations, etc.)
  • Basic keyword searching
  • Evaluation and limiting of a results page
  • Use of interlibrary loan to request items

 

Overview of Subject Specific Resources:

This may be either a close look at a collection of materials or a sit-down overview of the next level of catalog and database searching. Many times, this happens when students have an assignment to complete. Topics are agreed upon ahead of time, and resources are chosen for best use:

  • Introduction to subject-specific resources, such as Cinahl, ScienceDirect, or Criminal Justice Database.
  • Use of limiters in a database
  • Subject headings / thesaurus usage
  • RefWorks (bibliographic management resources for organization)

 

Advanced Researching:

Students are embarking upon or in the middle of a long research project, such as a literature review or a study. Meetings make take place in class or as individual or small group appointments. Concepts covered:

  • Related literature versus exact matching of articles
  • How to track down an article from a citation
  • Differences between types of studies, meta-analyses, and reviews
  • Locating and tracking instruments and tests

 

 

 

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Jodi Hilleshiem
Contact:
Todd Wehr Memorial Library
MC 114
La Crosse, WI 54601
608-796-3278