Ref Type: Journal Article
Authors: Shrimplin,Aaron, Hurst,Susan,
Title: A virtual standoff — Using Q Methodology to analyze virtual reference
Publication Full: Evidence Based Library and Information Practice
Year: 2007 Volume: 2 Issue: 4
Start Page: 4 Other Pages: 21
Descriptors: LIBRARIANS, REFERENCE sources, LIBRARY science, LIBRARY materials, DECISION making, ATTITUDE (Psychology),
Abstract:
Objective – To develop an exploratory understanding of reference librarians' perceptions of virtual reference. Methods – Q methodology was used to uncover points of view about virtual reference. Thirty-four librarians sorted 28 statements covering a wide range of opinions about virtual reference. Factor analysis was used to analyze the Q-sorts and factor scores were calculated to aid the task of understanding and interpretation. Results – The factor analysis revealed three attitudinal typologies: Technophiles, Traditionalists, and Pragmatists. Each factor represents a group of reference librarians who think similarly about virtual reference. Conclusion – This type of analysis provides data on the actual range of feelings and attitudes about providing virtual reference services. The factor analysis demonstrates that there are still a variety of strongly held viewpoints concerning virtual reference. Convergence towards either acceptance or rejection does not appear to be forthcoming. By using this type of analysis and the resulting data as a basis for decision making, administrators could staff services more efficiently and with the resulting better fit between librarians and their positions, possibly increase morale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]; Copyright of Evidence Based Library & Information Practice is the property of University of Alberta, Learning Services and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Notes:
M3: Article; Shrimplin, Aaron; Email Address: shrimpak@muohio.edu; Hurst, Susan; Email Address: hurstsj@muohio.edu; Source Info: Dec2007, Vol. 2 Issue 4, p4; Thesaurus Term: LIBRARIANS; Thesaurus Term: REFERENCE sources; Thesaurus Term: LIBRARY science; Thesaurus Term: LIBRARY materials; Subject Term: DECISION making; Subject Term: ATTITUDE (Psychology); Number of Pages: 18p; Illustrations: 2 charts. Document Type: Article
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Issn Isbn: 1715720X
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Issn Isbn: [41]