Access to Books and Libraries as Predictor of Reading Scores

Replicating McQuillan’s analysis of 1992 NAEP scores, this study found that access to books in school and public libraries was a significant predictor of 2007 fourth grade NAEP reading scores, as well as the difference between grade 4 and grade 8 2007 NAEP reading scores, suggesting that access is important for improvement after grade 4. Access (school/classroom libraries) was a significant predictor of scores on the PIRLS test, a reading test given to fourth graders in 40 countries.

Krashen, S., Syying, L., & McQuillan, J. (2012). Is the library important? Multivariate studies at the national and international level. Journal of Language and Literacy Education, 8(1), 26-36. http://www.sdkrashen.com/content/articles/multivariate_studies.pdf

Virtual Reality Aiding Memory

In this paper, the researchers explore whether using virtual memory palaces in a head-mounted display with head-tracking (HMD condition) would allow a user to better recall information than when using a traditional desktop display with a mouse-based interaction (desktop condition). The study found that virtual memory palaces in HMD condition provide a superior memory recall ability compared to the desktop condition. The researchers believe this is a first step in using virtual environments for creating more memorable experiences that enhance productivity through better recall of large amounts of information organized using the idea of virtual memory palaces.

Krosos, E., Plaisant, C., & Varshney, A. (2018). Virtual memory palaces: Immersion aids recall.

Virtual Reality. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007-s10055-018-0346-3

College Students Use of Libraries

This report produced by OCLC focuses on the perceptions college students have of libraries and information resources. The study revealed that in many areas college students use libraries more, and are more aware of resources, than are respondents overall. Also, when correlations were done between educational attainment and library use, there is evidence that the more educated the respondent, the more likely they are to use libraries after formal education is completed. These survey results confirm that libraries – both academic and public – are used by college students. College students also expect their library usage to increase in the future at a higher rate than do total respondents. When asked to give advice, many student respondents suggested increasing libraries’ open hours, improving the lighting and furniture, hiring friendlier staff and allowing food and drink in libraries. The results confirm that the majority of college students are still not making high use of the array of electronic resources (online magazines, databases and reference assistance, for example) libraries make available. However, college students use electronic resources at higher rates and are the most familiar with what libraries have to offer compared to usage and familiarity of overall respondents.

De Rosa, C., Cantrell, J., Hawk, J., Wilson, A., Gauder, B., Havens, A., Limes, R., & Smith, S. (2006). College students’ perceptions of libraries and information resources: A report to the OCLC membership. Dublin, OH: OCLC. https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/reports/pdfs/studentperceptions.pdf