AVLINE: a search resource for audiovisual instructional materials

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Health Sciences Education
• Digital Libraries

Background:

• The National Library of Medicine (NLM) developed AVLINE (AudioVisuals-on-LINE) to catalog nonprint instructional materials.
• There is a growing need for accessible digital resources in health sciences education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the historical development and current scope of the AVLINE database.
• To outline the review processes and peer reviewer involvement, particularly from dentistry.
• To provide data on AVLINE's content and access.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of AVLINE's development.
• Analysis of database content by health science discipline and media type.
• Description of database access and citation formats.

Main Results:

• AVLINE serves as a comprehensive resource for nonprint instructional materials in dentistry, medicine, nursing, and allied health.
• The database includes detailed information on content and media characteristics.
• Peer review processes, including dentistry involvement, are integral to AVLINE's quality control.

Conclusions:

• AVLINE is a valuable and evolving resource for health sciences education.
• Understanding its scope and access is crucial for educators and students.
• The database's structure and review process ensure its continued relevance.