Workshop Options
We are always delighted to work with you to create a class that meets your specific needs.
Our workshops can help students build confidence while developing research skills and learning to engage more critically and ethically with the information they encounter.
- Can be held at the Library or in the classroom.
- Include hands-on practice whenever possible.
- Are primarily assignment-based.
Here are some ideas for possible workshops.
AI Literacy: Just the Basics (30-60 min., Beginning)
Students will explore the basics of AI (artificial intelligence) literacy, including AI tools, their practical use, and inherent limitations. Ethical considerations regarding the use of generative AI in writing and research will also be included. The 60-minute session includes an activity.
Introduction to Library Resources and Services (20-60 min., Beginning)
A discussion of types of services and spaces the Library offers. The 60-minute session Includes a Library Scavenger Hunt which can also be offered asynchronously, outside of class.
Building a Search Strategy (30-60 min., Beginning)
Students will learn how to do background research, with an emphasis on reference resources and books. Students will also learn how to narrow a topic, formulate a research question, and develop keywords to assist them with search. This workshop is customizable into smaller segments: background research, narrowing a topic, and formulating a research question.
Introduction to Library Databases (30-60 min., Beginning)
Students will learn the differences between databases and the open web, and explore types of databases, keywords, and search fields. The 30-minute workshop is appropriate for an overview of one database.
Exploring Subject-Specific Databases (30-60 min., Beginning/Intermediate)
Students will explore a subject specific database in depth. Possible examples include: CQ Researcher or Opposing Viewpoints for overviews on current topics, and PsycInfo and Science Direct for scholarly research in psychology and science.
Finding and Evaluating Online Resources (30-60 min., Beginning)
Students will learn practical ways to focus their search using Google’s Advanced Search, and analyze the search results using a variety of evaluation methods. An optional self-paced tutorial is available.
Citations As Conversation (30-60 min., Advanced)
In this workshop, students will gain an understanding of the importance of citations to scholarly research and conversation by actively tracing an author’s influence through citation trails.
How Information Is Organized (30 min., All Levels)
An exploration of the information cycle as it impacts the research process. Students will analyze how information about an object or event is represented, how it evolves over the course of time, and the way the message is delivered.
Types of Resources (30-60 min., Beginning)
This workshop includes an examination of scholarly and popular articles as well as primary, secondary, and tertiary sources. The 60-minute session includes an activity.
Introduction to Citations (20 min., Beginning)
This brief workshop will introduce students to different types of citations, their basic structure, and their importance to academic research. A self-paced tutorial on APA style is also available.
The Annotated Bibliography (20 min., Beginning/Intermediate)
This brief workshop will introduce students to the annotated bibliography and how it can be used as an organizational tool to synthesize their understanding of a source and further their research.
Paraphrasing and Plagiarism (30-60 min., Beginning)
This workshop will allow students to explore paraphrasing as it relates to plagiarism and how it can lead to unintentional plagiarism when not done correctly. The 60-minute workshop includes a tutorial, which can also be offered asynchronously.