Peer training in expert searching: the observation effect.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study is to determine if searchers' observing each others' search processes is an effective training method and if sharing through observation can strengthen search skills.


METHODS
A shared email account was established among all public services librarians conducting literature searches at the Ehrman Medical Library. Three questionnaires were sent to the public services librarians soliciting input on the shared-search process. The results were analyzed for this study.


RESULTS
The shared-search process has helped searchers become more effective in searching. Colleagues' viewing of the search results is a major factor influencing the searchers' performance.


CONCLUSIONS
Easy to implement, the peer-training model is an effective way to train searchers as well as help keep skills up to date.
Vieira
Dorice L
DL
Ehrman Medical Library New York University School of Medicine 550 First Avenue New York, New York 10016, USA. Vieira@library.med.nyu.edu
Dunn
Kathel
K
D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D016245:Librarians; D007993:Libraries, Medical / Q000592:standards*; D017145:Models, Educational; D009862:Online Systems / Q000592:standards; D010379:Peer Group; D011361:Professional Competence / Q000592:standards; D015397:Program Evaluation; D014481:United States