Using Digital Learning Objects for Instructional Support for Faculty in Agricultural Sciences: A Pilot Study

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Using Digital Learning Objects for Instructional Support for Faculty in Agricultural Sciences: A Pilot Study
Language: English
Authors: Hanwen Dong (ORCID 0000-0001-9742-6347), Maggie Albro (ORCID 0000-0002-0538-3501)
Source: Issues in Science and Technology Librarianship. 2025 (110).
Availability: Science and Technology Section, Association of College and Research Libraries. 50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611. Web site: https://journals.library.ualberta.ca/istl/index.php/istl/index
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 17
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: College Faculty, Agricultural Education, Librarian Teacher Cooperation, Resource Units, Land Grant Universities, Computer Uses in Education, Information Literacy, Academic Libraries, Technology Integration, Adjustment (to Environment), Instructional Effectiveness
Geographic Terms: Idaho, Tennessee
DOI: 10.29173/istl2836
ISSN: 1092-1206
Abstract: This pilot study explores how agricultural sciences faculty utilize Digital Learning Objects (DLOs) in their courses and collaborate with librarians to improve students' information literacy skills. The researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 14 agricultural sciences faculty members at two land-grant institutions in the United States. The identified key themes from the interviews include the current use of DLOs, challenges in their implementation, and the impact on student learning outcomes. Findings reveal that faculty recognize the value of DLOs for fostering independent learning and improving information literacy skills. However, there are challenges related to technical issues and the need for ongoing librarian support. The study highlights not only the importance of collaboration between faculty and librarians in developing effective DLOs, but also DLOs' potential to meet the evolving instruction needs in agricultural education. These insights can guide future efforts to enhance the role of DLOs in academic settings, ultimately contributing to a more information-literate and capable agricultural workforce. The findings of the study will also benefit librarians who liaise with agricultural sciences faculty or are responsible for DLO creation.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1475621
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This pilot study explores how agricultural sciences faculty utilize Digital Learning Objects (DLOs) in their courses and collaborate with librarians to improve students' information literacy skills. The researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 14 agricultural sciences faculty members at two land-grant institutions in the United States. The identified key themes from the interviews include the current use of DLOs, challenges in their implementation, and the impact on student learning outcomes. Findings reveal that faculty recognize the value of DLOs for fostering independent learning and improving information literacy skills. However, there are challenges related to technical issues and the need for ongoing librarian support. The study highlights not only the importance of collaboration between faculty and librarians in developing effective DLOs, but also DLOs' potential to meet the evolving instruction needs in agricultural education. These insights can guide future efforts to enhance the role of DLOs in academic settings, ultimately contributing to a more information-literate and capable agricultural workforce. The findings of the study will also benefit librarians who liaise with agricultural sciences faculty or are responsible for DLO creation.
ISSN:1092-1206
DOI:10.29173/istl2836