Session to be observed: Asynchronous February 2025 – Moodle tutorials to support Year 2 Unit 7 (3000 word essay). Research Skills, Introduction to Harvard Referencing.
Size of student group: Approx 400 students (with access to the resources).
Observer: Bernie Yates
Observee: Grace O’Driscoll
Part One
Information sent to Bernie prior to the observation was the same as the notes sent to Jade and John, see Jade’s post.
Bernie reviewed the library introduction refresher session – see previous post for links to the recording and slide pack.
Part Two
Bernie’s observations, suggestions and questions:
Grace O’Driscoll’s recorded library presentation is an extremely valuable and clearly delivered resource for Camberwell students. The information is well-structured, practical, and accessible, particularly for students who may feel overwhelmed or unfamiliar with using the library effectively. Grace’s tone is warm and approachable, which helps to engage students in what might otherwise feel like a dry or administrative topic.
The presentation clearly outlines key services, such as opening hours, cross-college access, and the ability to request books from other UAL libraries for delivery to Camberwell. These are essential points that students may not be aware of, and presenting them clearly supports wider and more confident use of library services. The explanation of the self-service options is another highlight – it’s helpful, empowering, and encourages independence.
A particularly useful part of the session is the emphasis on the breadth and quality of Camberwell’s library collection. Grace’s encouragement to explore beyond just essay-related materials, and to engage with the library for visual and practice-based research, is an important message for Fine Art students. Her suggestion of using a device to help navigate the library and manage the large volume of resources is also a great tip – very relevant and supportive for students new to academic libraries.
In terms of engagement and detail, the session feels well-paced and appropriately detailed. The information is specific without being overwhelming. While the content is clear and direct, there may be opportunities to break the video into shorter sections in future iterations to make it easier for students to return to key points.
Overall, this is a highly effective presentation. It offers both a welcoming introduction and genuinely practical support for students at Camberwell and across UAL. It successfully demystifies the library and positions it as an essential, exciting, and approachable space.