Role of Digital Libraries in supporting E-Learning
Rachna Patnaik
Head, Library & Documentation Division, Space Applications Centre, ISRO
Ahmedabad
2nd August, 2017
Introduction
Libraries are repositories of knowledge and the impact of information technology has changed the face of traditional libraries to digital libraries.
Digital libraries are supporting E-learning which has emerged as a boon as it involves learning through information and communication technology.
E-learning includes online/computer based learning in the form of webinars, discussion forums, chats,
E-Learning
.
Sr.
No.
Scheduled Delivery Platform On Demand Delivery Platform 1 E-learning occurs in real time. Does not occur in real time.
2 Active interaction between the
presenter and learner. Information is available on demand.
3 It is restricted by time and place
requirements. The information is provided round the clock.
4 E.g. Webinar, video conference
over the network. E.g. Web based access to resources, access to interactive CD/DVD at their own convenience.
E-learning through various modes
INTERNET
Online Learning
Computer- based
Learning
Video
conferencing
Chat Webinars
Discussion Forums
Digital Libraries supporting E-Learning
The Space Applications Centre (SAC) digital library is developed on Drupal Content management system (CMS).
The portal provides a platform for managing scattered information resources.
It allows learners to use digital resources remotely without even knowing where it is stored.
SAC Library
portal
Online Learning
The current content pages of books and journals are downloaded/scanned and linked which are accessible from OPAC.
Content Pages of Books/Journals
Online Learning : E-Books
Library has procured E-books and are linked with OPAC.
Online Learning : Digitized Journals
Full-text access of House Publications from OPAC
Library has a collection of CD/DVDs which are mapped on 100 TB Network Attached Storage (NAS) which are accessible from desktop.
Accessing CD/DVD from OPAC
E-Learning :CD/DVD Access
The National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) videos are mapped on NAS that can be accessed through portal.
E-Learning : NPTEL Videos
The Institutional Repository of SAC library uses DSpace open source software which is linked with portal .
Online Learning : Institutional Repository
E-Books
News Clippings
The content available in this laboratory are video, audio materials, Hindi e-books and software tools for learning Hindi.
Online Learning : Hindi Language Laboratory
Virtual Reference Service
Library has incorporated virtual reference service in portal through discussion forum where learners can discuss, exchange views, expertise on a topic.
The indenter of the book is requested to deliver a talk on the book and presentation is linked to the portal.
Book Reviews
Webinars
E-Learning Platform - Moodle
SAC Library is supporting E-learning and is in process of using Moodle an open source learning management system for learners.
It is the responsibility of library professionals to develop their skills to meet challenges posed by e- learning environment.
