The institution ensures that users have access to regular and timely instruction in the use of the library and other learning/information resources.
( Access to Instruction in Use )

  X    Compliance         Partial Compliance         Non-Compliance

Narrative: Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College (OCtech) ensures regular and timely instruction in the use of its Library’s learning and information resources through a variety of approaches. Instruction is supported by the availability of professional librarians, computers, and online resources. Through its program of bibliographic instruction and reference services, the Gressette Learning Resource Center Library ensures access to timely instruction as needed and regular instruction during its hours of operation. Course-related instruction is developed and provided for specific assignments in the Library’s instructional lab and in the open computer area of the Library as needed. Research from statistics for January and February, 2005, show that forty-eight academic classes have received formal instruction from either the Dean of Learning Resources or the Director of Library Services. Instruction and tutorial sessions for using Library resources are provided to groups and to individuals as needed. OCtech offers students the necessary training to help them use the Library’s resources to the best advantage. The training varies according to the facilities and the services students need most. It is the Library’s intent to promote information literacy skills, which are a critical component of lifelong learning. Information literacy is defined as the ability to:

• Know when there is a need for information
• Be able to identity the needed information
• Locate the needed information
• Evaluate and effectively use the information to address the need

As indicated in Compliance Report Core Requirement 2.9: Learning Resources and Services, instruction and assistance is provided to students in WebCT classes. The Library web page is designed to provide access to Library resources to distance learning students. Off-campus students are also assisted through the phone reference service. Individual instruction is available from the Library's staff by email, regular mail, and the telephone. Training for using WebCT is provided, and a full-time Information Resources Consultant is available to both faculty and staff for assistance. In support of copyright policy, instruction is provided in the area of copyright laws and how they impact classroom instruction. Certificates are awarded to individuals completing the six-module copyright tutorial. Other instruction on new technology or new resources is offered as the Library purchases new programs and databases. The staff of the Gressette Learning Resource Center Library also provides informal instruction at the point-of-need.

Evidence of Support: