Library as Laboratory: Computer Science Students Practice Usability Engineering in an Academic Library.

Authors

  • Margaret Mellinger

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29173/istl2425

Abstract

This article presents a project-based collaboration between a usability engineering (UE) course and the campus library. Student teams developed UE projects based on usability issues they identified in the library's web-based and information technology services. Using the library as a focal point, students practiced common UE methods such as ethnomethodological observation, web usability evaluation, and an iterative prototype process based on cycles of design, testing and evaluation. At the end of the term, teams of students presented their novel solutions to library staff as part of their final grade. Other academic librarians may find inspiration to pursue similar partnerships on their own campuses.

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References

Baker, L. M. 2006. Observation: A complex research method. Library Trends 55(1): 171-189.

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Given, L. M. & Leckie, G. B. 2003. Sweeping the library: Mapping the social activity space of the public library. Library & Information Science Research 25(4): 365-385.

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Published

2007-09-01

How to Cite

Mellinger, M. (2007). Library as Laboratory: Computer Science Students Practice Usability Engineering in an Academic Library. Issues in Science and Technology Librarianship, (51). https://doi.org/10.29173/istl2425

Issue

No. 51 (2007): Summer (Theme: All Topics)

Section

Board Accepted Articles

License

While ISTL has always been open access and authors have always retained the copyright of their papers without restrictions, articles in issues prior to no.75 were not licensed with Creative Commons licenses. Since issue no. 75 (Winter 2014), ISTL has licensed its work through Creative Commons licenses. Please refer to the Copyright and Licensing Information page for more information.

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