Exploring new ways of working using virtual research environments in library and information science

TY - JOUR

T1 - Exploring new ways of working using virtual research environments in library and information science

AU - Sonnenwald, Diane H.

AU - Lassi, Monica

AU - Olson, Nasrine

AU - Ponti, Marisa

AU - Axelsson, Ann Sofie

PY - 2009/6/12

Y1 - 2009/6/12

N2 - Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present current and ongoing research investigating new ways of working across geographic distances and time within library and information science (LIS). Design/methodology/approach: A total of four studies were conducted focusing on: the design of a virtual research environment (VRE) to facilitate the sharing of data collection instruments among students, researchers and professionals; new ways professionals and researchers can collaborate; collaborative decision making in the context of purchasing a library management system; and collaboration among LIS professionals. Findings: Early results show that VREs within LIS can build on previous VRE research which focused on other domains. However, there are several unique characteristics of LIS that place requirements on VREs and which are not yet implemented within VREs and that offer unique opportunities for VREs to enhance LIS research, education and practice. Originality/value: This paper reports on ongoing research and preliminary findings of unique studies investigating how VREs could enhance LIS research and professional practice, and how LIS research and practice can inspire the next generation of VREs.

AB - Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present current and ongoing research investigating new ways of working across geographic distances and time within library and information science (LIS). Design/methodology/approach: A total of four studies were conducted focusing on: the design of a virtual research environment (VRE) to facilitate the sharing of data collection instruments among students, researchers and professionals; new ways professionals and researchers can collaborate; collaborative decision making in the context of purchasing a library management system; and collaboration among LIS professionals. Findings: Early results show that VREs within LIS can build on previous VRE research which focused on other domains. However, there are several unique characteristics of LIS that place requirements on VREs and which are not yet implemented within VREs and that offer unique opportunities for VREs to enhance LIS research, education and practice. Originality/value: This paper reports on ongoing research and preliminary findings of unique studies investigating how VREs could enhance LIS research and professional practice, and how LIS research and practice can inspire the next generation of VREs.

KW - Data collection

KW - Information science

KW - Virtual organizations

KW - Virtual work

U2 - 10.1108/07378830910968155

DO - 10.1108/07378830910968155

M3 - Journal article

AN - SCOPUS:68949200900

SN - 0737-8831

VL - 27

SP - 191

EP - 204

JO - Library Hi Tech

JF - Library Hi Tech

IS - 2

ER -