Modifying an information literacy game for outreach events
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to discuss how to use a web-based library game as an outreach tool at events. Games in higher education are a trend that libraries have used for information literacy but less frequently for outreach. Although there are relatively few examples of the use of games in academic library outreach events, games have the potential to be excellent outreach tools by engaging students and presenting them with the opportunity to change their perceptions of the library.
Design/methodology/approach
The University of North Dakota (UND) Libraries successfully connected with students at an outreach event by using a modified version of the Information Literacy Game originally developed by the University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG). UND Librarians created specific technical modifications and an event workflow, highlighted here, that other academic libraries can adapt for use at outreach events to attract both students who are and those who are not typically users of the library.
Findings
The information literacy game, with some specific technical changes, is customizable in relatively inexpensive ways that allow librarians from institutions of all sizes to engage students with a game at outreach events.
Originality/value
Games, especially Web-based games, have not previously been used in outreach events. The literature on the use of games in information literacy sessions but outreach is an even more logical fit for gaming. This paper presents a practical, value-oriented method for academic libraries to modify an information literacy game for use in outreach.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge Kristen Borysewicz and CFL ' s Reference and Research Services for their assistance and support. The authors would also like to state that they are unrelated.
Citation
Martin, L. and Martin, W. (2015), "Modifying an information literacy game for outreach events", Reference Services Review, Vol. 43 No. 4, pp. 643-655. https://doi.org/10.1108/RSR-02-2015-0009
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited