Dissertation Information for Elizabeth Blackwell Clark-Claytor NAME: - Elizabeth Blackwell Clark-Claytor
DEGREE:
- Ph.D.
DISCIPLINE:
- Library and Information Science
SCHOOL:
- Florida State University (USA) (2000)
ADVISORS: - Ronald D. Blazek
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: - Thomas L. Hart - Hollie Thomas - Elfreda Annmary Chatman
MPACT Status: Fully Complete
Title: Educators' perceptions of mediated information retrieval services
Abstract: Through the use of combined methodological approaches, this study sought to investigate how educators view the role of the mediated retrieval service of SERVE in light of developments in information technology and unlimited access to the Web. Data was collected from a questionnaire survey, and through personal observations of the researcher. From content analysis and case study techniques, the data revealed southeast teachers' perceptions of: (1) the information needs of practicing educators (2) the effect of widespread access to electronic sources on mediated access (3) the capability to search and retrieve relevant information without formal training (4) the importance of immediate access and (5) the relative value of SERVE's mediated access service overall.
In exploring educators' perceptions within the context of the research environment, the themes of user needs, access, role, training, time, immediate access and value were revealed which established the format for an objective and detailed discussion of teachers and their perceived need for mediated information linked to the underlying issue of time for reform.
In the final analysis, it was revealed that teachers need mediated access and they might not be the ideal consumers for research studies about the practice of teaching despite its critical link to the reform of public schools. Also, the data revealed information literacy training is not a valued commodity among teachers at the time the survey was conducted. Training means time away from teaching and time with its many dimensions is very important to teachers. At teachers' current information seeking style, information literacy training is not a necessity in successfully retrieving content relevant data.
Despite the overall high rating for SERVE's mediated retrieval service, teachers are unwilling to pay for mediated access and if pressured, they will choose the lowest amount option. If a fee is imposed, it is doubtful that teachers will remain loyal. They will in all likelihood seek other means for free mediated access.
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MPACT Scores for Elizabeth Blackwell Clark-Claytor A = 0
C = 0
A+C = 0
T = 0
G = 0
W = 0
TD = 0
TA = 0
calculated 2008-01-31 06:05:38
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