Goal IV.a
Students will describe applications of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies in library and information science.
Artifact 1: Quantitative Research Article Critique: Collection Development Using Data Analytics
Artifact Overview
This artifact critiques a quantitative research article on collection development using data analytics at Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women. The reviewed study analyzed print collection usage data from 2022 to 2024 to identify underused areas of the collection and test whether Truesdale’s 80/20 rule applied to circulation patterns. The article found that most circulation came from a relatively small portion of the collection, then used those findings to propose data-informed selection and weeding guidelines.
I selected this artifact for Outcome IV.a because it demonstrates my ability to identify and explain the use of quantitative research methods in LIS. The critique focuses on how circulation data, faculty-recommended title usage, and collection analysis can inform practical library decisions. It also notes the limitations of the study, including its focus on print materials and exclusion of reference titles, which may reduce the usefulness of the resulting policy. This artifact shows my ability to interpret a quantitative LIS study not just as research, but as a tool for evidence-based decision-making in collection management.
Artifact 2: Statistical Methods Assignment: Beanstack Reading Data
Artifact Overview
This assignment applies statistical reasoning to real school media center data from Kenly Elementary’s Beanstack “Detailed Reader Report.” The project focuses on the relationship between grade level and logged reading minutes during October 2025, asking whether younger students show higher recorded reading minutes because teachers often log minutes for them, while intermediate students are expected to log independently. The assignment identifies grade level as a categorical variable and logged minutes as a continuous variable, then proposes descriptive statistics and ANOVA as appropriate methods for analysis.
I selected this artifact for Outcome IV.a because it demonstrates how quantitative methods can be applied to everyday library practice. The assignment connects statistical concepts to a practical question about reading engagement, data accuracy, and grade-level participation. It also reflects the ethical handling of school data by noting that identifying information was removed to protect student privacy. This artifact is useful because it shows that research methods are not limited to formal academic studies; they can also support practical, data-informed decisions in a school library setting.