Effective e-Training: Using a Course Management System and e-Learning Tools to Train Library Employees

Abstract

In the summer of 2012, the University of Arizona Libraries implemented an online training program to effectively train Access Services staff and student employees at a large academic research library. This article discusses the program, which was built using a course management system (D2L) and various e-Learning software applications (Articulate Storyline, Panopto, and Adobe Presenter). The result of this case study reflects that by using multiple e-Learning applications and embedding them in a course management system, staff can have a ubiquitous, point-of-need virtual learning environment that successfully prepared them to staff a 24/7 research library. Additionally, we have found the online training program to be successful at reducing costs associated with training a large number of employees. It also provides the security needed to house employee performance records, effectively test for competency-based knowledge, and provide a unified space for both staff and supervisors to outline and measure performance. We have also found that, though providing training in an online environment is beneficial in a number of ways, there is still a need for more engaging face-to-face interactions, and we have begun exploring blended classroom strategies to address this.