- Why is there a workbook?
The Library Research Workbook was officially added to English 201A some years ago. At that time, English 201A was a 3-unit course; with the addition of an information skills module the course was increased to 4 units. Cuesta recognized the need to provide students with instruction on college-level research skills and the workbook is our current method.
- What's new about the workbook this year?
There are major changes in the 2009/2010 workbook. The emphasis is on promoting better research skills and information literacy.
- The module on Reference Books is fully updated and more practical
- There is a new section on choosing the best sources for your topic.
- The Readers' Guide section is new
- The MLA citation section and sample Works Cited page are updated to reflect the new 7th edition of the MLA Handbook
There is also more interactivity. The printed workbook is shorter, so it costs less. Much of the deleted material is available from the Library home page or myCuesta Library channel (on the Resources tab). Students can link to:
- MLA citation examples and how to write a paper using MLA style
- The Readers' Guide instructions
- The web page evaluation URLs
- Workbook updates and corrections
- Online tutorials
- Other useful resources for research
- The new online workbook test
The format of the workbook is that of a virtual research paper, with questions and examples relating to the specific subject of Habitat Conservation.
We have incorporated student learning outcomes into the Introduction and several modules.
A few important concepts are repeated throughout the workbook, such as understanding keywords, refining and narrowing searches, and evaluating sources.
- Which Workbook do I use?
Use only the most recent version. For this semester, the cover is blue-gray and says Library Research Workbook 2009/2010. All earlier versions are outdated, and should be discarded. This includes older versions that may be for sale at used bookstores or copies obtained from friends.
If you are giving your students the option of using the PDF version of the workbook, the URL you need to give them is: http://library.cuesta.edu/201A workbook.pdf
- What supplies will my students need to complete this assignment?
In addition to the workbook they will need one Scantron #882 form-- for the in-class test, which is not open-book.
- Where do I get a workbook?
Kathy DeCou, Department Assistant for Learning Resources, should send you one. If you don't receive a copy or if you need a new copy please call Kathy at 546-3190.
- How do I arrange an orientation for my English 201A class?
The workbook is best used after an initial presentation by one of our staff librarians. To arrange an orientation call or email Kevin Bontenbal at ext. 3117, kbontenb@cuesta.edu or Kathy Decou at ext. 3190, kdecou@cuesta.edu. You can also request an orientation online by filling out the orientation request at: http://library.cuesta.edu/webres/reqOrientation.htm. Schedule your orientation in advance to get your preferred time. Please don't skip the orientation! We find that students benefit from the presentation as it answers many commonly asked questions about how best to complete the workbook.
- How long will it take to complete the workbook?
Students should set aside about 4-5 hours completing the workbook. This includes reading the text and answering each question. For the reference books questions, students need to use the Cuesta library.
Starting this year, the students will record their answers to an online test form. The link to the test form is on the workbook page. Kathy Decou will get the reports containing the test results. To get your class results email Kathy at kdecou@cuesta.edu. She will need the CRN number for each section and your email address to send the results to you. Remind students that they can only submit the online test form once.
- When do I schedule the test?
After your students have completed the workbook and you have reviewed their results with them, go ahead and schedule the in-class test any time that suits you. It is not an open book test. There is a sample test at the Reserve desk at the library to help students prepare for the test.
- Which test do I use?
Make sure the test you are using is marked with the current semester. Ask Judy Beier, English Division Assistant, ext. 3176, for a copy when you are ready. She has them on file.
We discard old tests each semester. If you use an old version by mistake it cannot be processed. The tests will be returned and your class will have to retake them.
- Can students make up the exam because of absence?
The library does not give exams. It is up to the instructor to make arrangements for any make-up.
- Where do I send the test Scantrons to be scored?
For faster turn-around time hand deliver the test Scantrons to Kathy Decou in the SLO campus Library office for scoring. North County instructors take Scantrons to Jeannie Amader in the NC Library, ext. 6211. You can also use inter-office mail.
- How long does it take to get the workbook or test Scantrons back?
You should receive the test Scantrons in your mailbox within 48 hours. Every effort is made to return them the same day.
- Who should I call if I have any questions about the Library Research Workbook?
Library contacts: Laurie Allen at ext. 3157 or email lallen@cuesta.edu, Kathy DeCou at ext. 3190 or email kdecou@cuesta.edu, or talk to any librarian on duty at the Reference Desk at ext. 3157. English Department contact: Sharon Beynon, ext. 2744.
- If students have questions when completing the workbook who should they ask?
They should see the librarian on duty at the Reference desk in the library for assistance.
- What about any updates to the current workbook?
We will post any updates or changes to the current workbook on the following web page: http://library.cuesta.edu/workbook/. You and your students can access the update page from the Library home page or myCuesta. In addition to updates, the Library Research Workbook page offers links to evaluating sources, citing sources, using search engines and subject directories, and other research aids. Your students will find these links useful!
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Library Research Workbook FAQ
