Web‐Based Instruction: A Guide for Libraries

Citation

Read, J. (2002), "Web‐Based Instruction: A Guide for Libraries", Online Information Review, Vol. 26 No. 2, pp. 122-129. https://doi.org/10.1108/oir.2002.26.2.122.7

The aim of this book is to provide “a comprehensive, soup‐to‐nuts guide” to creating effective library instruction Web sites. It is intended mainly for academic librarians engaged in information skills training and assumes a basic knowledge of HTML. Knowledge of programming is not essential for understanding this book.

The first part of the book deals with the planning necessary before and during the development of the Web site. The introduction sets out the advantages and disadvantages of choosing to provide Web‐based instruction for students, while the first chapter deals with the principles of good library instruction and how these translate to the Web. The second chapter explains the design and development cycle (the process by which the instructional course is developed), and the third deals with choosing hardware and software for the project.

The second part of the book gives more detailed information on how to design the actual course, with chapters on designing the user interface, using multimedia and making the site interactive. There are examples of pages from real sites illustrating the various points made. Explanations of technical terms and guidance on different file formats and when to use them are provided. The final chapter discusses ways to evaluate the success of the project. There is a useful guide to resources at the end of the book.

This is an excellent resource for academic librarians. It is clear, accessible, and comprehensive (as advertised). Some books on the Web get bogged down in the technology; I was pleased to note that this author stressed the importance of good design. I recommend this book to any academic librarians engaged in Web design, and the chapters on design theory and project planning will be of interest to non‐librarians as well.