Heavey, Nicholas (2019) Filling the blank Canvas: reimagining online guides for the new VLE. In: ARLG Spring Conference 2019, 3-4 June 2019, University of Teesside.

PDF - Presentation Download (724kB)

Abstract

This paper will outline and highlight work to develop and repurpose LibGuides to support academic teaching staff in the construction of their Canvas VLE module sites, and the opportunity for the library and academic staff to work together to meet the needs of students. We will demonstrate how we can work smarter with existing content, reduce the duplication of work for both academic teaching and library staff, improve relations with academics and schools across the University, increase traffic to library content and enhance the student experience.

In the summer of 2018, the University of Sussex introduced a new VLE; Canvas. We took the opportunity to rethink and develop our online resource guides, working collaboratively with tutors as co-creators of content. Reimagining and repurposing our existing LibGuides to broaden their reach. The time and expertise spent on existing subject pages could be represented as sections, which could be embedded in modules.

By taking a modular approach to design, we have enabled academic teaching staff to take a ‘pick and mix’ approach to Libguides, saving time for both academic and library staff. Embedded sections can now be seamlessly integrated into the VLE and targeted to sit within specific weeks, sections, or topics. Contextualising content in modules has increased the visibility of library resources.

This responsive approach to online guides has led us to collaborate with academic teaching staff to co-design guides, ensuring we meet their teaching needs; supporting interdisciplinarity, developing a robust online learning experience and mapping effectively onto course requirements. The ability to integrate sections in Canvas has meant academic teaching staff are empowered to suggest and contribute to Libguides resulting in more fluid and tailored content and pages, pooling expertise and delivering a cohesive approach to guide design.

This session will provide practical tips on working smarter with existing content, guidance on design approaches and reflections on working collaboratively with academic staff.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Other)
Schools and Departments:	Professional Services > Library
Subjects:	Z Bibliography. Library Science. Information Resources > Z0719 Libraries (General)
Related URLs:	Organisation
Depositing User:	Nicholas Christian Joseph Heavey
Date Deposited:	03 Sep 2020 09:52
Last Modified:	03 Sep 2020 09:52
URI:	http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/93482

View download statistics for this item

📧 Request an update