Instructional Learning Objects in the Digital Classroom: Effectively Measuring Impact on Student Success

Abstract

ABSTRACTDemonstrating library impact on student success is critical for all academic libraries today. This article discusses how the library of a large online university serving non-traditional students evaluated how customized point-of-need learning objects (LOs) embedded in the learning management system impacted student learning. Using a comprehensive mixed-methods approach utilizing Google analytics, reference statistics, and citation analysis via rubrics, the author investigated the extent to which LOs contributed to students' ability to conduct research independently and ability to create quality bibliographies. Results indicated high usage of LOs, that student research independence increased in all courses analyzed, and bibliographies improved for students in an anthropology course after LO integration. This initiative provided substantial evidence that the LOs positively affected student learning and allowed the library to communicate this impact to key stakeholders.