/research/projects/synchronicity/default.htm

originally: http://www.oclc.org/research/projects/synchronicity/default.htm

Seeking Synchronicity: Evaluating Virtual Reference Services from User, Non-User, and Librarian Perspectives

Institute of Museum and Library Services logo Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, logo OCLC Online Computer Library Center logo

This project is funded by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and in-kind contributions from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and OCLC.

This international study, conducted jointly by OCLC and the Rutgers School of Communication, Information and Library Studies, will

  • investigate factors influencing the selection and use of chat-based VRS
  • study user and staff perceptions of satisfaction
  • investigate why non-users of these services do not choose VRS
  • seek to develop research-based recommendations for VRS staff to increase satisfaction.

The methodology involves a combination of data collection and analytical techniques, including quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Results will be widely disseminated as the study progresses, since preliminary indications suggest that findings will be immediately relevant and useful to the LIS community.

Other documents provide more detail about this project; please refer to the Resources section below or explore the list of links in the left-hand column of this page.

Resources

Research Team members

Please contact us! We welcome your comments, suggestions, feedback, etc.