Touring by design : using information architecture to create a virtual library tour

Abstract

Based on student responses to a 1999 survey conducted at the University of Otago Science library, traditional tours are not a popular part of the existing user education program. In order to combine an effective learning tool with the need for user orientation of the physical library building and resources, a virtual tour was developed. The design of the tour set out to incorporate learning outcomes from the SUNY (State University of New York) set of Information Literacy Student Learning Outcomes and to address concepts from the field of information architecture; namely, that an internet based tour must consider how the information is organised, how concepts are labelled and how navigation is to take place, all within the highly visual web-based environment. Evaluation was considered a vital part of the project and was implemented throughout the design process. As a teaching tool, the virtual tour was then integrated into the course work of first year surveying students. The tour was used by 83 students who completed an evaluation and an assignment. These responses contribute valuable data on the advantages and disadvantages of a virtual library tour.