NUS LINUS: Feb 2004

A total of three tutorials were conducted on 21 and 28 2004 at the Training Room in the Central Library. Library staff from the Reference and Information Services Dept worked with Dr Angelique Chan to organize the sessions which were attended by 105 third year Sociology students enrolled in SC3214 (Sociology of Life Course & Ageing).

The students were given a presentation on how to search various databases with hands-on practice. The databases include Web of Science, Expanded Academic Index, Sociological Abstracts, PERIND as well as electronic journals. A brief description of the databases and various search strategies were covered: boolean operators, search concepts (including synonyms and variant spellings), and ways of limiting searches. Specific examples pertaining to the module were used: demographic changes in Singapore and the world’s population; retirement; health of older adults; social status of older adults; social support of older adults, and government support (CPF, nursing homes); transition to old age and widowhood; living arrangements for the aged. The students were required to do a literature review on one of these topics. They were also briefed on the various functions in LINC including keyword search, emailing selected records, LINC help on LION and Login to myLinc.

The students found the interactive sessions valuable. They raised questions and clarified their doubts on searching for specific materials for their term papers. Students who had little or no experience in searching Digital Library stayed back after the sessions for individual help. The more experienced users requested for tips on searching Factiva and LexisNexis Academic effectively.

As a librarian, it gave me great pleasure to teach the students information skills and to see them put these skills to good use in preparation for their term papers.

From the lecturer:

During these sessions the librarian provided an extremely clear and valuable presentation on the use of the digital library services. She made the presentation relevant to the content of the class and I acknowledge that this took a great deal of background work and attention to detail. She was very responsive to students' questions during the tutorials and was more than willing to repeat items which the students had missed. Later she circulated among the students to ensure that they were searching the digital library effectively as they carried out their literature searches for their term papers.

It was a real pleasure to work with her and I would like to commend the Central Library's staff for their willingness and positive attitude towards assisting in helping our students learn more about library resources. It is committed individuals like this who make our academic environment world class!!

Information Skills for Sociology Students