Improving the Student Search Experience in LibGuides
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5860/ital.v43i4.16971Keywords:
academic libraries, research guides, subject guides, LibGuides, mental models, searching behavior, search success, search misconceptions, usability testing, user studies, user interfaces, interface modifications, college studentsAbstract
This study is an in-depth look at the use of the LibGuides search function by college students. We sought to better understand the mental models with which they approach these searches and to improve their user experience by reducing the percentage of searches with no results. We used two research methods: usability testing, which involved 15 students in two rounds, and analysis of search terms and search sessions logged during three different weeks. Interface changes were made after the first round of usability testing and our analysis of the first week of search data. Additional changes were made after the second round of usability testing and analysis of the second week of search data.
The usability tests highlighted a mismatch between the LibGuides search behavior and the expectations of student users. Results from both rounds of testing were very similar. The search analysis showed that the level of no-result searches was slightly lower after the interface changes, with most of the improvement seen in Databases A-Z searches. Within the failed searches, we saw a reduction in the use of topic keywords but no improvement in the other causes we studied. The most significant change we observed was a drop in the level of search activity.
This research provides insights that are specific to the LibGuides platform—about the underlying expectations that students bring to it, how they search it, and the reasons why their searches do and do not produce results. We also identify possible system improvements for both academic libraries and Springshare that could contribute to an improved search experience for student users.
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