Virtual Realities and Libraries

 Ms. Bernadette

 A    V    M    R

 What is AVMR? 

 "Augmented, Virtual, and Mixed Reality."

Using Augmented and Virtual Reality in Information Literacy Instruction to Reduce Library Anxiety in Nontraditional and International Students 

 Dr. Angela Sample discusses how library institutions were known for their innovative qualities in the past and how AVMR can continue that reputation today. AVMR can serve as a tool for "instruction, research, [and serving] 

1. online learners;
2. international learners not accustomed to Western higher-education practices; and 
3. learners returning to university study after being away from higher education for some time or having changed disciplines of study."

Throughout this article I discovered and remembered the concept of library anxiety. The idea that AVMR can reduce library anxiety to support students academic success makes sense that the two can be connected. 

Like any new place we visit... we are learning for the first time where everything is located, yet it can be difficult to know where to look to find out where to find that information as well. Sometimes, it can also be intimidating to ask a stranger where or how to locate certain tools and information. For instance, the guest may not know specifically what it is they are looking for which also means it can be time consuming, or they will return back and forth for more questions that they may not want to ask. The idea of "library anxiety" applies to social situations, equipment, self-perception of competency, and can heighten when it seems that the guest is the only one having issues.

This concept "stemmed from four causes: (1) the size of the library; (2) a lack of knowledge about where things were located; (3) how to begin;and (4) what to do."

So, How might AVMR help?

AVMR can be used for:

• Library Virtual Tour
• Library Tutorials
• Library Instruction

I have recently noticed that K-12 schools have make use of AVMR during this COVID-19 period of online education. School districts have created AVMR welcome sites that link resources that students can click on. 

Do you or your friends/family interact with any academic AVMR resources? Share some of your examples in the comments! 

I can tell that their must be various ways professionals everywhere are utilizing this type of tool. It can be inviting to have this type of resource available for any age group, as it can be engaging and interactive.

References

Sample, A. (2020). Using Augmented and Virtual Reality in Information Literacy Instruction to Reduce Library Anxiety in Nontraditional and International Students. Information Technology and Libraries, 39(1). https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v39i1.11723