Edge Hill University developed InfoZone, a blended induction resource on their virtual learning environment (VLE) WebCT, to provide equitable access to information literacy skills for all students. InfoZone contains interactive modules on using campus resources, the library catalog, and academic support services. It aims to introduce students to WebCT and develop lifelong information literacy through guided activities, videos, and quizzes. InfoZone is delivered both online and in hands-on sessions to support all students, including those studying off-campus or remotely.

1. InfoZone
A blended Induction: developing
Information literacy from the start!
Lorna Clarke
&
Helen Bell
Lilac 2008

2. Edge Hill Overview
• Previously used video, demonstration,
hands on
• Induction to library catalogue and
computer network
• Separate WebCT sessions but not as
standard
• Info skills sessions for some not all
• Big booklets

3. Why we changed
• Equity of access for all students
• Increasing numbers of students off-campus
• Greater use of the VLE
• Greater emphasis on a ‘joined up’ approach to
academic skills development – bringing them
together in one resource
• Need to develop Information literacy and
lifelong learning skills
• Reprographic nightmare!

4. What we did
• Looked at how we delivered induction,
Information skills and introduction to WebCT
• Multi-professional team approach
• Decided on a blended approach to optimise
the learning experience
• Use WebCT as the medium

5. What InfoZone looks like

6. InfoZone content
1. Using this resource – introduction and how to
navigate your way through
2. Learning@Edge Hill – campus maps, buildings,
opening hours, UNIcard
3. Off Campus – help and support for off campus and
distance learners
4. Using the library catalogue – how to access books,
journals and online resources
5. Skills and support - support with essay writing, study
support and SpLD
6. Tool to print off individual sections of the resource

7. What learners do in InfoZone
• Campus maps
• Videos
• Quizzes using Hot Potatoes
• Camtasia (screen casting software) used to
learn about non-web tools and resources
• Informs tutorials used for guided searches of live
resources
• Links to useful web pages
• Access guides and other support materials

8. What InfoZone aims to do
• Provide an induction to Learning Services
• Provide an introduction to WebCT for all new
students
• Support distance, flexible and FE Partner
students
• Be interactive – not just online page-turning
• Be a reference tool for duration of course
• Develop information literacy

9. How InfoZone is delivered
• On campus to all students in a ‘hands-on’ face-
to-face session
– Simple guide to logging in
– Activities to direct use of InfoZone
• Off campus, face to face, or directed to WebCT
supported with a printed guide
• Simple enough for self-directed learning
• Tutors direct students in using InfoZone to
develop academic study skills

10. Future developments
• Ongoing review, checking and updating
• Containing generic and subject resources
• Adding Informs to cover a range of databases
for each Faculty
• Guided searches for key resources to develop
Information and searching skills
• Integration within hands-on workshops
• Move to ‘paperless’ taught sessions

11. Contact
Lorna Clarke
clarkel@edgehill.ac.uk
Helen Bell
bellh@edgehill.ac.uk

12. Accessing InfoZone
Go to: http://webct.edgehill.ac.uk
Username: lilac
Password: lilac