Understanding Student Perspectives on Self-Efficacy, Scholarship & Library Research in Graduate Social Work Distance Learning: A Pilot Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Graduate distance learning programs are charged to find creative ways to foster student engagement and learning. Faculty and Library Sciences professionals are increasingly collaborating to achieve this end. In this study, faculty from the Masters in Social Work program and the Library collaborated to explore student's perceptions about how to best engage the library, its resources and trained staff to improve perceived self-efficacy and scholarship in research methodology. Survey data (n = 28) suggests that these students have a surprisingly high level of discomfort and anxiety related to the information search process, the library, and their own academic self-confidence. Students present as less confident in their ability to locate needed information, more anxious about using the library and asking for help, and appear to have less developed search skills. Implications for student engagement and integration of information literacy skills are presented and discussed.