Assessing scholarly communication and research data training needs

Published version: Megan M. Bresnahan, Andrew M. Johnson, (2013) "Assessing scholarly communication and research data training needs", Reference Services Review, Vol. 41 Iss: 3, pp.413 - 433 Abstract: Purpose – This study aims to develop a systematic approach for assessing local training needs in order to reskill liaison librarians for new roles in scholarly communication and research data management. Design/methodology/approach – This study followed a training needs assessment approach to develop a survey instrument that was administered electronically to liaison librarians. Survey data were analysed to create an overall prioritization score used to rank local training topics in terms of need. Additional data will inform the design, including formats, of a training agenda to meet these needs. Findings – Survey results indicated that training for research data topics should be prioritized and addressed using hands-on methods that would allow liaison librarians to develop tangible skills directly applicable to individual outreach activities. Research limitations/implications – Training priorities often involve factors beyond the scope of this training needs assessment methodology. This methodology also presupposes a list of potential training topics. All training efforts resulting from this study will be assessed in order to determine the effectiveness of the initial interventions and inform the next steps in this iterative training agenda. Practical implications – Involving potential trainees in the prioritization and development of a training agenda provides valuable information and may lead to increased receptivity to training. Originality/value – This study provides a model for academic libraries to use to assess training needs in order to reskill current staff to adapt to a rapidly changing research and scholarly communication landscape.