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Nigeria's free digital learning hub. Videos, lecture notes, practice questions and leaderboards aligned with CCMAS, NBTE, NCCE, WAEC, NECO, IJMB and JAMB curricula.
Library and Information Science · 300 Level
This is the complete lecture note for LIS 326 Research and statistical methodology, prepared for Library and Information Science students at 300 Level. You can read it online below, open it in the full viewer, or download the PDF for offline study. It pairs with the course's video lectures, so you can read and watch together.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS LIS326 Research and Statistical Methodology (2 Units) Series 1: Foundations of Research in Library and Information Science Series outline • Part 1: Nature and Purpose of Research in Library and Information Science • Sub-Part 1.1: Meaning of Research • Sub-Part 1.2: Importance of Research in Library and Information Science • Sub-Part 1.3: Scope and Applications of Research • Part 2: Characteristics and Principles of Research • Sub-Part 2.1: Features of Scientific Research • Sub-Part 2.2: Principles Guiding Research in Library and Information Science • Part 3: Ethical and Professional Considerations in Research • Sub-Part 3.1: Research Integrity and Ethics • Sub-Part 3.2: Professional Responsibilities of Researchers Introduction Research is the backbone of progress in any discipline, and library and information science is no exception. In today’s knowledge-driven society, libraries and information centres must rely on systematic inquiry to improve services, evaluate resources, and meet the needs of diverse users. Without research, decisions would be based on assumptions rather than evidence, which could limit the growth and relevance of the profession. The aim of this Series is to introduce you to the foundations of research in library and information science, equipping you with the knowledge to appreciate its purpose, principles, and ethical dimensions. We shall commence this Series by exploring the nature and purpose of research in library and information science. Next, we will examine the characteristics and guiding principles of research, highlighting what makes it systematic and reliable. Finally, we will conclude with a discussion on ethical and professional considerations, ensuring that you understand the responsibilities of researchers in maintaining integrity and credibility. Series Learning Outcomes Upon completing this Series, you should be able to: • SLO 1.1 define the concept of research in library and information science,
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS • SLO 1.2 explain the importance and applications of research in library and information science, • SLO 1.3 describe the key characteristics and principles of scientific research, and • SLO 1.4 evaluate ethical and professional considerations in conducting research. 1.1 Nature And Purpose Of Research In Library And Information Science 1.1.1 Meaning of research The term research refers to a systematic and organised investigation carried out to discover new facts, verify existing knowledge, or solve specific problems. In library and information science, research involves careful inquiry into issues such as user needs, information retrieval systems, and the effectiveness of library services. It is not a random activity, but one that follows a structured process to ensure reliability and validity. Fill in the blank: Research is a __________ and organised investigation carried out to discover new facts or solve problems.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS 1.1.2 Importance of research in library and information science Research is essential because it provides evidence-based solutions to challenges faced by libraries and information centres. For example, through research, librarians can evaluate whether digital catalogues improve user satisfaction compared to traditional card catalogues. It also helps in policy formulation, resource allocation, and the design of innovative services. Without research, decisions would rely on assumptions, which may not reflect the actual needs of users. Fill in the blank: Research helps librarians to make __________ decisions rather than relying on assumptions.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS 1.1.3 Scope and applications of research The scope of research in library and information science covers diverse areas such as user behaviour, information retrieval, cataloguing systems, and digital library management. Applications of research include designing better information systems, evaluating library programmes, and improving access to knowledge resources. For instance, a study on user search behaviour can inform the design of more intuitive online catalogues. Fill in the blank: The scope of research in library and information science includes areas such as __________ behaviour and information retrieval.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS Area of Research Application User Behaviour Designing user-friendly catalogues and intuitive library layouts. Information Retrieval Improving search algorithms and metadata standards for faster discovery. Library Services Evaluating programme effectiveness to ensure community needs are met. Digital Libraries Enhancing access to electronic resources and ensuring long-term digital preservation. Table 1.1 Applications of research in library and information science Pilot questions 1.1 1. Research in library and information science is a __________ and organised investigation. 2. Which of the following is NOT an importance of research in LIS? a) Enhancing service delivery b) Supporting innovation c) Promoting random decision-making d) Providing evidence for policy formulation 3. The scope of research in LIS includes studying __________ behaviour. 4. One application of research in digital libraries is __________. 5. Research helps librarians to make __________ decisions. 1.2 Characteristics And Principles Of Research 1.2.1 Features of scientific research Scientific research refers to inquiry that is systematic, objective, and verifiable. In library and information science, this means that investigations must follow a clear process, avoid personal bias, and produce results that can be tested or replicated. Key features include clarity of purpose, logical organisation, and reliance on evidence rather than assumptions.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS Fill in the blank: One feature of scientific research is that it must be __________, meaning free from personal bias. 1.2.2 Principles guiding research in library and information science Principles of research are the fundamental rules that ensure investigations are credible and useful. In library and information science, these principles include relevance, accuracy, ethical responsibility, and applicability. Research must address real problems faced by libraries, use reliable data, and be conducted with integrity. For example, a study on user satisfaction should employ valid methods of data collection and analysis, ensuring that findings can guide service improvement.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS Fill in the blank: One principle of research in LIS is __________, which ensures that studies address real problems faced by libraries. Pilot questions 1.2 1. Which of the following is NOT a feature of scientific research? a) Systematic inquiry b) Objective analysis c) Random guesswork d) Verifiable results 2. Research must be __________ to ensure results can be tested or replicated. 3. One principle of research in LIS is __________, which ensures studies are useful in practice. 4. Accuracy in research means using __________ data.
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