Improving communication between postgraduate researchers and the university library: a case study at De Montfort University Library and Learning Services

Petch, Melanie, Fraser, Katie, Rush, Nathan, Cope, Alan and Lowe, Julie (2016) Improving communication between postgraduate researchers and the university library: a case study at De Montfort University Library and Learning Services. New Review of Academic Librarianship, 22 (2-3). pp. 268-281. ISSN 1740-7834

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Abstract

A well-established postgraduate researcher development program has existed at De Montfort University for many years. Library and Learning Services include modules on literature searching skills and critical appraisal. However, we recognized that researchers seemed to be disengaged with the services on offer. This concern informed a research project that considered the ways we could communicate better with researchers based on their needs. This paper explores the essential components of successful communication, such as context, timeliness and communication channels. An action-research approach was taken including focus groups and online surveys. The outcomes highlighted three significant crisis points, emphasizing the key times when researchers might need some intervention. The findings of this research identified the distinct needs of Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) and how relevant and timely communication from the library can meet these needs. It also considers the impact of how communication has improved with researchers as a result of some of our interventions.

Item Type: Article
RIS ID: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/826452
Additional Information: This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in New Review of Academic Librarianship on 17 March 2016, available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/” 10.1080/13614533.2016.1155999.”
Keywords: communication, doctoral research, academic libraries
Schools/Departments: University of Nottingham, UK > Professional services > Libraries, Research and Learning Resources
Identification Number: 10.1080/13614533.2016.1155999
Depositing User: Fraser, Dr Katie
Date Deposited: 03 Oct 2017 09:52
Last Modified: 04 May 2020 18:19
URI: https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/46929

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