How would you handle a situation where a researcher is struggling to find relevant information for their project?

Sample interview questions: How would you handle a situation where a researcher is struggling to find relevant information for their project?

Sample answer:

In a situation where a researcher is struggling to find relevant information for their project, I would approach the situation by following these steps:

1. Establish effective communication: I would start by engaging in a conversation with the researcher to understand their specific information needs and project requirements. Active listening is crucial here, as it helps me gain a clear understanding of what they are looking for.

2. Assess the researcher’s search strategies: I would inquire about the methods and resources the researcher has already utilized in their search for information. This allows me to identify any potential gaps in their approach and helps me tailor my assistance accordingly.

3. Offer guidance on search techniques: Based on the researcher’s search strategies, I would provide suggestions for alternative search techniques or databases that may yield relevant information. This could involve recommending specific search terms, Boolean operators, truncation, or subject-specific databases to explore.

4. Introduce advanced search tools and resources: If the researcher is still struggling to find relevant information, I would introduce them to more advanced search tools and resources. This may include specialized databases, citation indexes, or digital repositories that might contain relevant literature or data.

5. Collaborate on refining search queries: Working together with the researcher, I would help them refine their search queries. This involves critically evaluating the keywords and subject terms they are using and suggesting alternative terms or concepts that may broaden or narrow their search in a more fruitful way.

6. Provide guidance on evaluating sources: It is crucial to ensure the researcher is using credible sources. I would offer guidance on how to critically evaluate the reliability, relevance, and timeliness of the sources they come across. This could involve discussing factors such as peer review, author credentials, and publication reputation.

7. Offer assistance in accessing hard-to-find resources: If the researcher is struggling to access certain resources, such as out-of-print books or articles behind paywalls, I would suggest interlibrary loan services or alternative access options like open-access repositories or preprint servers. Additionally, I would explore if there are any relevant physical collections or archives that could be accessed for their project.

8. Provide ongoing … Read full answer

   Source: https://hireabo.com/job/18_0_17/Research%20Librarian