983 students were measured on 4 learning outcomes:
Outcome 1.1.c - Explores general information sources to increase familiarity with the topic
5 points = student states topic
Outcome 2.2.b - Identifies keywords, synonyms and related terms for the information needed
5 points = student states two alternate keywords for topic
3 points = student states one alternate keyword for topic
1 point = student restates initial keyword for topic
Outcome 2.2.d - Constructs a search strategy using appropriate commands for the information retrieval system selected (e.g., Boolean operators, truncation, and proximity for search engines; internal organizers such as indexes for books)
5 points = student shows correct use of AND and *
3 points = student shows correct use of AND
1 point = student shares keywords or phrases without the use of AND and *
question 3.b on form - (followup to Outcome 2.2.d, multiple choice on correct use of AND and *)
5 points = student chooses C as correct answer
Outcome 3.4.g - Selects information that provides evidence for the topic
5 points = student shares title of item relevant to their topic
The percentage of students performing Excellent, Good or Needs Improvement:
25.43% = Excellent (scored 21-25 points) - 250 students
42.42% = Good (scored 16-20 points) - 417 students
32.14% = Needs Improvement (scored 0-15 points) - 316 students
67.85% = Excellent and Good
32.14% = Needs Improvement
91% of students Agree or Strongly Agree that they found keywords or phrases which may help them develop or write about their topics.
44% of students were able to correctly identify which keyword search would find the fewest number of search results.
90% of students Agree or Strongly Agree that they found items relevant to their topics.
95% of students Agree or Strongly Agree that they now have a better understading of where to look for academic sources on a topic and that the concepts, skill and resources they learned about will help them complete their research assignments.
