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Dissertation Information for Robert Rosser Burkhardt

NAME:
- Robert Rosser Burkhardt

DEGREE:
- Ph.D.

DISCIPLINE:
- Library and Information Science

SCHOOL:
- University of Alabama (USA) (1995)

ADVISORS:
- Charles B. Osburn

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
- Marion Paris
- Philip M. Turner
- Kathleen Power Randall
- J. Gordon Coleman

MPACT Status: Fully Complete

Title: A role transformed? technology's challenge for job responsibilities of the reference librarian

Abstract: An assumption in library literature is that information technology has enlarged the job role of the academic reference librarian to encompass a greater emphasis on the responsibilities of planning and budgeting, staff training, user instruction, and communication. This study investigated whether differences in frequency of performing these responsibilities existed relative to variation in technological capabilities among traditional, transitional, and electronic reference departments. The study also examined whether differences in the perceived importance of the same responsibilities existed as technological capabilities varied in reference. Capability variation was assessed using measures of information content, assistance, and access.

A questionnaire was designed and directed to university reference librarians comprising the subject population. Analysis of variance represented the principal statistical procedure.

Primary findings indicated differences between responses in electronic and transitional settings. Librarians in electronic departments and with electronic access capabilities reported performing instructional responsibilities more frequently. Librarians with electronic assistance capabilities reported performing communication activity more often. Librarians with electronic access more often rated communication activity as important in terms of regular job responsibilities. Correlation analysis found a significant relationship between frequency of performance of each responsibility and the importance of the same responsibility.

MPACT Scores for Robert Rosser Burkhardt

A = 0
C = 0
A+C = 0
T = 0
G = 0
W = 0
TD = 0
TA = 0
calculated 2008-05-19 11:55:09

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