Leading edge technologies in a community college library setting: Identifying disconnects of academic libraries and their users.

摘要

The intent of this research was to discover what, if any, disconnect exists between community college students' library perceptions and technology use. The researcher studied how students at a very-large southwestern community college are using the physical and virtual college library, and their overall technology and library technology use. The research addressed the following six research questions: (a) What are the technology profiles (defined as technology ownership, use, skill, and adoption status) of students at a very-large size southwestern community college? (b) What are the library profiles (defined as library use, skill, awareness, and emerging technology receptivity) of students at a mid-size southwestern community college? (c) How do the library and technology profiles of students of disparate demographic factors such as age, digital status, gender, and academic status differ? (d) How can student receptiveness to and awareness of emerging technology library services be characterized? (e) How do students of disparate library and technology profiles compare in their awareness of, assessment of, and receptivity to traditional emerging technology-based library services? (f) What is the relationship between student use and awareness of library services and self-perception of technological competency, and receptivity to emerging technologies?;The data collection instrument consisted of a survey containing a mixture of multiple choice, Likert scale questions and open-ended questions. The researcher used a combination of data analysis software and Heuristic Coding.;In general, students at this institution use the library on a regular basis, with second year students using it more than first year students. The majority of them own a computer, having high-speed Internet connection at home. Most identified with the statement that they adopt new technologies about the same as others. They use technology daily, mostly in the form of text messaging and social networking applications. The primary technologies used in their courses are library related. The results of this study may provide libraries and institutions information as to where additional instruction is needed to better assist students in their research needs and what technologies need to be promoted to better equip students in their pursuit of higher education, and ultimately in the workforce.