Training Course on Evidence-Based Library and Information Practice: Advanced Research Methods

Training Course on Evidence-Based Library and Information Practice: Advanced Research Methods

Introduction

In today's dynamic information landscape, evidence-based practice (EBP) is no longer an aspiration but a critical imperative for library and information science (LIS) professionals. This advanced training program delves into sophisticated research methodologies, empowering participants to rigorously evaluate information, conduct impactful studies, and drive data-informed decision-making within their organizations. By mastering advanced statistical analysis, qualitative inquiry, and mixed methods research, LIS practitioners will transcend traditional roles, becoming research-savvy leaders capable of demonstrating the tangible value and impact of library services in an increasingly complex environment.

Training Course on Evidence-Based Library and Information Practice: Advanced Research Methods equips LIS professionals with the analytical competencies and critical appraisal skills essential for navigating the abundance of information and generating robust evidence. Participants will learn to design, execute, and interpret high-quality research studies, translating findings into actionable insights that optimize library services, enhance user experience, and ultimately contribute to organizational strategic goals. This program is a vital investment for those committed to advancing the professionalism and impact of libraries in the digital age.

Course Duration

5 days

Course Objectives

1. Differentiate and apply complex quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designs to address diverse LIS challenges.
2. Design and implement effective survey instruments, interview protocols, focus group guides, and observational methods for LIS research.
3. Utilize advanced statistical software to analyze quantitative data, interpret results, and draw valid conclusions for performance measurement and impact assessment.
4. Apply advanced qualitative analysis techniques such as thematic analysis, grounded theory, and discourse analysis to explore complex LIS phenomena.
5. Critically appraise and synthesize research findings from diverse sources, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, to inform evidence-based decisions.
6. Develop well-defined, answerable research questions aligned with organizational needs and LIS challenges.
7. Apply ethical principles and obtain institutional review board (IRB) approval for all research activities involving human subjects.
8. Explore and apply AI tools for research, data visualization techniques, and research data management best practices.
9. Effectively disseminate research results through scholarly publications, presentations, and impact reports to diverse stakeholders.
10. Develop strategies to translate research evidence into practical library policies, programs, and service innovations.
11. Foster a culture of inquiry, critical thinking, and continuous improvement within library organizations.
12. Design and implement impact assessment frameworks to demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) of library services.
13. Prepare participants to publish original research in peer-reviewed journals and present at professional conferences, advancing the LIS knowledge base.

Organizational Benefits

• Data-driven insights lead to more effective resource allocation, program development, and service improvements, aligning library services with institutional goals.
• Robust research provides compelling evidence of the library's contributions to teaching, learning, research, and community engagement, strengthening advocacy efforts and funding opportunities.
• Evidence-based insights into user needs and behaviors enable the development of highly relevant and user-centric services, increasing engagement and satisfaction.
• A staff skilled in advanced research methods elevates the library's professional standing and fosters a culture of innovation and accountability.
• Research-informed decisions on collection development, technology adoption, and staffing ensure efficient and effective utilization of library resources.
• Embedding research methodologies encourages ongoing evaluation, adaptation, and refinement of services, leading to sustained excellence.
• The ability to articulate clear research methodologies and anticipated outcomes strengthens proposals for external funding.
• Developing strong research skills facilitates inter-departmental and external collaborations on data-driven projects.

Target Audience

1. Academic Librarians.
2. Public Librarians.
3. Special Librarians.
4. Health Information Professionals.
5. LIS Faculty & Researchers.
6. Library Managers & Directors.
7. LIS Students (Graduate Level).
8. Information Analysts & Data Scientists in Libraries.

Course Outline

Module 1: Foundations of Evidence-Based Library and Information Practice (EBLIP)

• Defining EBLIP and its core principles in the modern LIS landscape.
• The EBLIP cycle: Articulate, Assemble, Assess, Agree, Adapt.
• Understanding different types of evidence: Research evidence, local evidence, professional knowledge.
• Identifying the research-practice gap and strategies for bridging it.
• Ethical considerations and responsible conduct of research in LIS.
• Case Study: Analyzing how a university library used patron feedback and circulation data (local evidence) combined with research on user engagement (research evidence) to justify a redesign of their physical space, resulting in increased student satisfaction and usage.

Module 2: Advanced Quantitative Research Methods

• Experimental and quasi-experimental designs for LIS interventions.
• Survey research design: Advanced sampling techniques, questionnaire construction, and online survey platforms.
• Inferential statistics: Regression analysis, ANOVA, Chi-square tests for library data.
• Data preparation, cleaning, and transformation using statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R).
• Interpreting and presenting quantitative research findings effectively.
• Case Study: A public library aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a new digital literacy program. Participants will design a quasi-experimental study, including pre- and post-test surveys, and analyze simulated data to determine the program's impact on participants' digital skills.

Module 3: Advanced Qualitative Research Methods

• In-depth interviewing techniques and focus group facilitation.
• Ethnography and observation in library settings: Understanding user behavior in natural environments.
• Case study research: Designing and conducting comprehensive single or multiple case studies.
• Qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, ATLAS.ti) for coding, thematic analysis, and discourse analysis.
• Ensuring trustworthiness and rigor in qualitative research.
• Case Study: A special library wants to understand the information-seeking behaviors of a niche professional group. Participants will develop an interview guide, analyze sample interview transcripts using thematic analysis, and present key insights into the group's information needs.

Module 4: Mixed Methods Research in LIS

• Integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches: Sequential, concurrent, and transformative designs.
• Justifying the use of mixed methods for complex LIS questions.
• Data integration strategies: Connecting quantitative and qualitative findings.
• Challenges and best practices in mixed methods research.
• Writing mixed methods research proposals and reports.
• Case Study: An academic library seeks to understand both the usage patterns (quantitative) and the user perceptions (qualitative) of its new research support services. Participants will design a mixed-methods study to address this question, integrating survey data with focus group insights.

Module 5: Data Analysis and Visualization for LIS Professionals

• Advanced statistical software applications for library data (e.g., SPSS, R, Python libraries).
• Data visualization principles: Choosing appropriate charts and graphs for different data types.
• Tools for creating compelling data visualizations (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Google Data Studio).
• Interpreting and communicating complex data insights to non-technical audiences.
• Introduction to basic machine learning concepts for predictive analytics in LIS.
• Case Study: Using a dataset of library circulation records and user demographics, participants will perform descriptive and inferential statistical analysis and create interactive dashboards to visualize usage trends and identify areas for collection development.

Module 6: Research Design and Grant Proposal Writing

• Developing a comprehensive research proposal: Literature review, methodology, timeline, budget.
• Identifying funding opportunities for LIS research.
• Crafting persuasive grant narratives and budgets.
• Navigating the IRB review process and ethical approvals.
• Project management for research initiatives.
• Case Study: Participants will work in groups to develop a mock grant proposal for a research project aiming to assess the impact of open access initiatives on scholarly communication within their institution, including a detailed methodology and budget.

Module 7: Scholarly Communication and Dissemination Strategies

• Navigating the peer-review process for LIS journals.
• Strategies for writing for publication in LIS: Structure, style, and impactful messaging.
• Presenting research at conferences: Abstract writing, poster design, and oral presentation skills.
• Open access publishing and institutional repositories.
• Measuring research impact: Citations, altmetrics, and professional visibility.
• Case Study: Participants will critically appraise a published LIS research article, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and then draft an abstract and outline for a potential conference presentation based on its findings, highlighting key takeaways.

Module 8: Practical Application and Capstone Project

• Applying learned methodologies to real-world LIS challenges.
• Developing an individual or group research project plan relevant to participants' institutions.
• Mentored research development and feedback sessions.
• Troubleshooting research challenges and problem-solving.
• Presenting capstone research proposals/projects to peers and instructors.
• Case Study: Participants will select an area of interest within their own library or information environment (e.g., digital resource usage, library anxiety among students, impact of marketing campaigns). They will then develop a detailed research plan, including research questions, chosen methodology, data collection instruments, and analysis plan, which they will present and receive feedback on.

 Training Methodology

This course employs a participatory and hands-on approach to ensure practical learning, including:

• Interactive lectures and presentations.
• Group discussions and brainstorming sessions.
• Hands-on exercises using real-world datasets.
• Role-playing and scenario-based simulations.
• Analysis of case studies to bridge theory and practice.
• Peer-to-peer learning and networking.
• Expert-led Q&A sessions.
• Continuous feedback and personalized guidance.

 

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@datastatresearch.org or call +254724527104 

 

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

 We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to DATASTAT CONSULTANCY LTD account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.