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Self-Directed Learning

Library Basics (Learn Module)

Library Basics IconThe resources available through Library Services can at times seem mysterious and daunting, especially to new students.  Library Basics aims to solve this mystery by laying the foundation for students to use library resources effectively.  Students will learn what resources the library has to offer and why it is important to use the library as opposed to basic search engines such as ‘Google.’

The goal of this module is to ensure students have a basic search strategy in place before they begin their research and how best to use library tools such as ‘OneSearch’ to ensure their research is successful.

Content Contact: Bettina Allen 

Use the Module

Module Details

LEARNING OUTCOMES

  • Have a basic understanding of Library Services
  • Prepare for your research by: 
    • Choosing a topic
    • Developing a search strategy
    • Learning how to pick keywords for searching
  • Understand basic research skills including:
    • Where Google and library databases fit into your search strategy
    • How to evaluate information 
    • Different information evaluation approaches to help you pick reliable sources
    • Boolean searching
    • How keywords and controlled vocabulary can help you in your search
  • Understanding the basic functions of OneSearch by:
    • Learning how to sign into ‘My Account,’
    • Search in OneSearch
    • Tweak your results
    • Use ‘Send to’ features

Course Content

  • Introduction to Library Services
  • Research Prep
  • Library Research Skills
  • OneSearch Basics

Resources

The Library Basics module provides a brief introduction on how Library Services can help students succeed at Red River College Polytechnic. It features curated LinkedIn Learning videos and application activities to introduce essential research concepts such as ‘Information Literacy’ and ‘Developing a Research Question’ for students to use before they begin their research. They then learn how to use the Library’s discovery system ‘OneSearch’ through a series of videos that were produced by Library staff to illustrate exactly how students can find library resources.