SEARCHING FOR DIGITAL LIBRARIES IN EDUCATION - WHY COMPUTERS CANNOT TELL THE STORY

THIS ARTICLE ARGUES FOR THE evaluation of digital libraries in schools by drawing upon situated observations, an exploration of educational goals, and a discusssion of current technologies. As most of the resea rch and development of digital libraries has been directed toward spec ialized workplace settings, the authors posit that an unrealized poten tial exists for the development of educational digital libraries, rais ing a number of current questions and challenges. First, the meanings and practices of information searching and information use are explore d from the perspectives of teachers and students. The article next foc uses upon contexts of library activity, emphasizing how physical and d igital spaces carry their own meanings in relation to the school commu nity and pedagogical practices. Further, these physical and digital sp aces articulate and become the contexts of new hybrid practices and ro les for educators and students alike.