eLearning integration in the library: a case study
| Pages | 441-453 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-04-2016-0025 |
| Date | 14 November 2016 |
| Published date | 14 November 2016 |
| Author | Yiye Han,Steven Yates |
| Subject Matter | Library & information science,Librarianship/library management,HR in libraries,Library strategy,Library promotion |
eLearning integration in the
library: a case study
Yiye Han and Steven Yates
Monash University, Clayton, Australia
Abstract
Purpose –Monash University Library (MUL) has embraced eLearning as a strategy in its
contribution to information research and learning skills development within the university. The
purpose of this paper is to describe an evaluation of the implementation of the strategy with
recommendations for sustaining and improving practice.
Design/methodology/approach –The evaluation is divided into four categories using a mixed
methods methodology for evidence gathering. Quantitative and qualitative data are obtained from
both primary and secondary sources for an enriched understanding of practices.
Findings –Findings suggest that library staff have gained knowledge and skills indicating a
sustainable strategy. However, further work is required to sustain staff development and support staff
requirements in the long term.
Research limitations/implications –This research is limited by its wide focus. Although this is
mostly resolved through the use of multiple data collection methods, the thoroughness of the
evaluation may have suffered while attempting to be comprehensive.
Practical implications –The conclusions of this evaluation as well as methods of its execution
can be shared with other institutions wishing to produce eLearning resources in a sustainable and
effective manner.
Originality/value –MUL develops its eLearning resources in-house, whereas many other institutions
outsource. The findings of this case study could be viewed as a positive indication of this in-house
practice, which in turn might inform other organisations who are looking for a financially beneficial
eLearning alternative.
Keywords Online learning, Professional development, E-learning, Sustainability, Blended learning,
E-learning in academic library
Paper type Case study
1. Introduction
This paper describes the case of eLearning in Monash University Library (MUL or the
library) as incorporated as part of its strategy and alignment with broader university
goals. Expressly, the uptake, the professional development associated and its
sustainability are essential to the continuation of eLearning in the library. The case
study evaluates the effectiveness of performance thus far in order to inform the
construction of a plan to sustain future practice.
The library leads information research and learning skills programmes in
partnership with faculties within the university. In an evolving higher education
landscape, the following factors present challenges in this leadership role, especially
where the library is a multi-branch organisation catering to staff and students across
campuses: diminishing face-to-face time with students; larger student cohorts,
decreasing budgets and staffing; increasing demands from partners in the faculties;
and the university’s strategic direction towards blended learning, a hybrid form
combining face-to-face and compulsory online learning components (Bell et al., 2002).
These factors together with a 60,000 plus student body in the university accentuate the
extent of the challenges. The library has responded by adopting eLearning as a
strategy and establishing an eLearning team to contribute to the university’s blended
Library Management
Vol. 37 No. 8/9, 2016
pp. 441-453
©Emerald Group Publis hing Limited
0143-5124
DOI 10.1108/LM-04-2016-0025
Received 18 April 2016
Revised 15 July 2016
Accepted 16 July 2016
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available on Emerald Insight at:
www.emeraldinsight.com/0143-5124.htm
441
eLearning
integration in
the library
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