Designing a Workflow for Online Learning Objects Created by Health Sciences Librarians

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences Librarianship
• Information Management
• Educational Technology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid shifts to online learning environments.
• Virginia Commonwealth University's (VCU) Health Sciences Library (HSL) faced increased demand for online learning objects (OLOs).
• Research and Education (RED) librarians support specific health sciences schools and the VCU Health System.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a mechanism for curating and standardizing online learning objects (OLOs).
• To improve content management, sharing, and prevent duplication among librarians.
• To support faculty and students in the transition to online learning.

Main Methods:

• Formation of an Online Learning Team (OLT) comprising RED librarians.
• Development and standardization of workflows for OLO creation and curation.
• Utilizing the department's intranet for workflow documentation and accessibility.

Main Results:

• Standardized workflows were created and uploaded to the HSL intranet.
• The process facilitated easier content management, updating, and cross-pollination between liaisons.
• Workload was lessened through content standardization and prevention of duplication.

Conclusions:

• Standardized workflows are crucial for managing and disseminating online learning objects effectively.
• Collaboration and clear processes enhance library support during periods of rapid change.
• The OLT model successfully addressed the challenges posed by the shift to online education.