Combining Web Analytics and a Web-Based User Survey for LibGuides Assessment

Abstract

Method name(s) Web/Data Analytics; Web Survey; Project Outcome Model Objective The aim of this method is to assess an online library guide, using both qualitativeand quantitative methods, with the specific objective of discovering who is using the guideand why, as well as understanding the impact of the guide on user learning outcomes.Approach: This method combines the use of web/data analytics (quantitative) and aweb-based survey (quantitative and qualitative) with an existing model for measuring learningoutcomes. By combining these methods, a more robust assessment of an online guide can beachieved. Data Type Used The discussed online guide assessment used data from Google Analyticsand from a web-based survey, created in Qualtrics, with learning outcome questionsdeveloped using the Project Outcome for Academic Libraries Toolkit. Strengths The combined analysis of the web analytics and survey data resulted in anexpanded assessment of the library guide and a richer picture of guide users, their behavior,and their learning outcomes. Limitations Individually, each method used in this research has limitations. Web analyticsare unable to determine users’ motivation (why) for using the guide and whether they havelearned (impact) from their behavior/interaction while using the guide. Surveys collectself-reported data and may be subject to recall bias. However, when the methods arecombined, each helps to counteract the individual limitations.