This lightning talk will discuss Virginia Commonwealth University Libraries’ efforts to create a comprehensive suite of online learning tools aimed at covering information literacy competency standards. The VCU Libraries initiated a coordinated effort to build effective online learning tools that encompass much more than just videos. Videos are valuable and often effective, but they should not be the only learning tools. This lightning talk will introduce examples of interactive online learning tools that stimulate engagement and critical thinking, strategies in developing coordinated tools, and provide information on software, programs and websites libraries can use to build their own tools. Download the presentation to get the full effect with animation, plus talking points.

1. To Infinity & Beyond
Videos
Creating a Coordinated Suite of Online
LearningTools that Engage Researchers
and Enhance Learning
Liz Johns | emjohns@vcu.edu
Teaching & Learning Librarian
VirginiaCommonwealth University, Richmond,VA

5. ?
Videos are lacking something – we must supplement and
support them with alternatives.

6. Why not videos?
Students want:
Engagement
Interactive opportunities
Multiple paths to
information
(Mestre 2010, 824)

7. Animated
Continuous change
InteractiveChange from user action
Static
No change

8. Multimedia
words + images

9. Good online learning programs…
Facilitate active learning
Are comprised of tools that complement each other
Address skills in a strategic and coordinated way

10. Examples ofVCU CoordinatedTools
Coordinated Set 1: Evaluating Sources
Coordinated Set 2: Finding Research Materials

11. Videos
Evaluating
Information
Coordinated Set 1:
Evaluating Sources

12. Hover maps
Videos
Games
Infographics
Evaluating
Information
Coordinated Set 1:
Evaluating Sources

13. Hover maps engage users
Coordinated Set 1:
Evaluating Sources

14. Infographics
speed
information
processing
Coordinated Set 1:
Evaluating Sources

15. Games help
practice skills
and check
knowledge
Coordinated Set 1:
Evaluating Sources

16. Flowcharts are ideal for processes
Coordinated Set 2:
Finding Research
Materials

17. Creating CoordinatedTools
Start with:
• Determining a set of best practices
• Standardizing language
• Standardizing color schemes
• Brainstorming tools that can work together

18. “To infinity, and beyond!”

19. RecommendedTools
FeaturedTools
Infographics: Piktochart,
Infogr.am, Prezi, PowerPoint
Hover maps: SnagIt
Flow charts: Prezi,
PowerPoint, Lucid Chart
More Ideas
Games: Bubblr, Sporcle,
Google Forms
Word Clouds: Wordle
Videos: Jing, Camtasia
Liz Johns | emjohns@vcu.edu