Reference & Research

Deliverables

Course Research Deliverables

The format of the course research deliverable will vary, given the nature of the project and the preference of the ID.

For most research projects, we will provide the citations, abstracts, and links in a Word document. However, depending on the project's parameters, the deliverable may include an Excel spreadsheet, search strings, or creating a LibGuide.

When embedding direct links to articles or videos within the document, refer to the SOP section on Linking to Database Content.

Unlike Ask Us! responses, which strive to further information literacy, step-by-step details regarding database choice or search strategies should not be included in internal research deliverables.

Before uploading the final deliverable, look it over with attention to detail and an eye toward how the requestor will read it. Keep the formatting consistent and user-friendly. Make clear that any comments are yours and not part of the citation or abstract.

Here are some examples of past projects:

Special Research Deliverables

The needs of the project determine the format of the special research deliverable. Special research deliverables may include:

• an executive summary
• full-text articles or links to documents
• abstracts
• bibliography
• analysis of resources used or content
• search strings

Course Research Resource Selection and Recommendations

Resource recommendations will be based on the needs and parameters of the requester. When appropriate, make suggestions for replacement readings with an eye on current content to help the student understand and realistically apply the content.

When it is provided, refer to the Course Design Guide (CDG) to get an idea of the course requirements to help inform your research. Remember, the intent is to find something similar to the content being replaced, but more importantly, the replacement options should also reflect the course assignments.

Feel free to contact the PM or ID for clarification as needed. The ultimate goal is to provide a replacement that negates the need for the ID to revise the assignment or curriculum. 

As a general guideline:

• The Librarian should consider Library resources first when searching for and curating course resources. Outside websites may be considered if no appropriate resources can be found within the Library collection.
• The course level should impact the type of resource suggested. For example, academic and peer-reviewed articles should be reserved for graduate and upper-level courses unless specifically requested for lower-division courses.
• Articles over ten pages and older than five years should be closely evaluated for relativity. Videos should also be evaluated for length, with "clips" offered when the entire video is substantial in length.
• The Librarian should consider the student of the course when selecting resources. For example:
  • Users tend to be working adults with families and limited free time.
  • Users may have employment experience in the subject matter of the course page.
  • Users will value practical content applicable to their jobs, translating to real-life, practical topics and the most current resources available.

Deadlines

The PM will set a deadline for internal research. If you cannot meet the deadline, please contact the PM before the deadline to negotiate an adjustment to the date.

Professional Judgement

The Librarians are encouraged to provide their professional expertise and opinions when searching for and evaluating potential content. Resource types and formats not initially requested but deemed applicable may be recommended with the Librarian's reasoning.