Please excuse cross-posting of this message.	
****************************************************************

On March 14th the Nova Scotia Provincial Library will be hosting an
Education Institute audio conference on *Using Observational Research
Methods in Your Library* with Lisa M. Given. This session will explore
the use of observational research methods in library settings (e.g.,
using the "seating sweeps" approach to document how patrons are using
library spaces). Related topics, such as implications for ethics review,
how to use observational approaches with other research methods, and
approaches to gathering data (e.g., digital photography) will be
discussed. 

The Benefits 
Provides an overview of key design topics when using observational
methods in the library context; 
Includes practical examples from projects using observation in library
settings across Canada; 
Includes discussion time so that participants can ask questions about
observational methods and data gathering equipment. 

Who Should Participate? 
Librarians working in academic, public, special libraries or other
information settings who want to learn more about using observational
research methods in their institutions. The topic of the session will
also apply to a range of content areas from the health sciences to
children's services. 

Key Topics
When to use observational methods; 
Choosing appropriate data gathering tools (e.g., digital photography);

Qualitative vs. quantitative approaches to observation; 
Design issues - how to design effective observational projects. 

Lisa M. Given 
Lisa M. Given is an Associate Professor in the School of Library and
Information Studies at the University of Alberta. She teaches
graduate-level courses in research methods, Web design and information
literacy. Her research interests include individuals' information
behaviours, Web usability, the design of library space, and information
use in the context of higher education. Her current research project,
The University as Information Space: Exploring Undergraduates'
Information Behaviours, was awarded a 2003 SSHRC Standard Research
Grant.

Developed for the Education Institute by the Saskatchewan Library
Association. 

SESSION DETAILS:
Time: Wednesday, March 14th, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Place: Conference Room, Nova Scotia Provincial Library, 3770 Kempt
Road, Halifax
This session is free; parking is available in front of the building.

Please respond to Carol Morris at [log in to unmask] or by phone at
424-2477 if you would like to attend this session.  

********************************************************************
We respectfully request that you refrain from wearing any scented
products, including perfume, hair spray, cologne, deodorant, etc. and we
thank you for your cooperation.
********************************************************************