The use of Opac query logs to support evidence-informed information literacy (IL) training at The University of Dar es Salaam
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21500699 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Faraja Ndumbaro (0000-0002-7252-0860, University of Dar es Salaam, corresponding author), Mohamed Kassim (0000-0002-3016-9283, University of Dar es Salaam) |
| Year | 2022 |
| Volume | 38 |
| Issue | 3 |
| Pages | 351-362 |
| Publication date | 2022-09-01 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Information Development (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0266-6669 • E-ISSN: 1741-6469 |
| Publisher | SAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US) |
| DOI | 10.1177/02666669211021619 |
| OpenAlex | W3168094727 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 26 |
This paper reports the results of the study which analysed OPAC users’ searching behaviour through the use of search queries. The study analysed how OPAC search queries can be used to assess the effectiveness of the information literacy programme offered by the University of Dar es Salaam. Data were collected unobtrusively and stored in the OPAC web server’s log file. OPAC search logs were qualitatively and quantitatively analysed to determine search patterns and search query formulation. Information literacy course contents were also qualitatively analysed and compared with users’ search activities. The results suggest that search query logs are essential and high quality evidence that can be used to inform information literacy pedagogical methods and course contents improvement. A comparison between OPAC users’ search behaviours and information lteracy course content identified some areas for readjusting the way information literacy instructions are delivered and improving OPAC search functionalities. The study has contributed to the conceptual understanding and the use of evidence to support evidence-informed practices (EIPs) in delivering information literacy courses
Dar es salaam · Information literacy · Information retrieval · Search engine · Sociology · Tanzania · Web search query · World Wide Web · Computer Science · Educational Strategies and Epistemologies · Library Science and Information Literacy · Online and Blended Learning
| Citations per year | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Highly cited | No |