How digital libraries can support e‐learning
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/02640470610671231 |
| Pages | 389-401 |
| Published date | 01 May 2006 |
| Date | 01 May 2006 |
| Author | Saeed Rezaei Sharifabadi |
| Subject Matter | Information & knowledge management,Library & information science |
How digital libraries can support
e-learning
Saeed Rezaei Sharifabadi
Department of Library and Information Science, Alzahra University,
Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Purpose – Digital libraries have the potential to offer unprecedented resources for supporting
e-learning. This paper addresses and discusses such aspects as what is meant by “e-learning”, and
how can it be supported by the library environment, the functionality of the digital library; and how
e-learning resources are included and organized in the digital library.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper explores the advantages of digital libraries for
e-learning and the types of learning that can be supported by digital libraries.
Findings – There is undoubtedly a keenness to use online information resources for research and
teaching, but this seems to be matched by a lack of awareness of how best to integrate these resources
into the e-learning environment.
Originality/value – The paper provides a useful insight into the role and influence of digital
libraries and online resources on e-learning.
Keywords Digital libraries,E-learning, Internet, Worldwideweb, Library servies
Paper type Research paper
1. Introduction
The growth in e-learning, in which education is delivered and supported through
computer networks such as the internet, has posed new challenges for library services.
E-learners and traditional learners now have access to a universe of digital information
through the information superhighway. New information and communications
technologies, as well as new educational models, require librarians to re-evaluate the
way they develop, manage and deliver resources and services.
This paper examines how digital libraries are responding to the challenges of
delivering core services to e-learners. The paper will examine library practices and
technologies being applied in the construction of digital libraries. Challenges and
opportunities which digital libraries bring to the support of e-learners, as well as the
importance of providing support within a collaborative environment, which stresses
human factors such as communication and interaction, will also be discussed.
2. Digital library origins and definitions
The term “digital library” is simply the most recent in a long series of names for a
concept that was written about long before the development of the first computer. The
idea of a “computerized library” that would supplement, add functionality, and even
replace traditional libraries was first invented by H.G. Wells and other au thors, who
caught the imagination of millions with speculative writings about “world brains” and
similar fanciful devices.
There is general agreement that much of the early actual application of computers
to information retrieval was stimulated by the prominent scientist Vannevar Bush,
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available at
www.emeraldinsight.com/0264-0473.htm
Digital libraries
and e-learning
389
The Electronic Library
Vol. 24 No. 3, 2006
pp. 389-401
qEmerald Group Publishing Limited
0264-0473
DOI 10.1108/02640470610671231
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