Rachel K. Fischer, Aubrey Iglesias, Alice L. Daugherty and Zhehan Jiang
The article presents a methodology that can be used to analyze data from the transaction log of EBSCO Discovery Service searches recorded in Google Analytics. It explains the…
Abstract
Purpose
The article presents a methodology that can be used to analyze data from the transaction log of EBSCO Discovery Service searches recorded in Google Analytics. It explains the steps to follow for exporting the data, analyzing the data, and recreating searches. The article provides suggestions to improve the quality of research on the topic. It also includes advice to vendors on improving the quality of transaction log software.
Design/methodology/approach
Case study
Findings
Although Google Analytics can be used to study transaction logs accurately, vendors still need to improve the functionality so librarians can gain the most benefit from it.
Research limitations/implications
The research is applicable to the usage of Google Analytics with EBSCO Discovery Service.
Practical implications
The steps presented in the article can be followed as a step-by-step guide to repeating the study at other institutions.
Social implications
The methodology in this article can be used to assess how library instruction can be improved.
Originality/value
This article provides a detailed description of a transaction log analysis process that other articles have not previously described. This includes a description of a methodology for accurately calculating statistics from Google Analytics data and provides steps for recreating accurate searches from data recorded in Google Analytics.
Details
Keywords
Yan Chen, Kendall Hartley, P.G. Schrader and Chenghui Zhang
The purpose of this study is to examine relevant demographic and socio-economic factors as they relate to progress towards intercultural communicative competence (ICC) and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine relevant demographic and socio-economic factors as they relate to progress towards intercultural communicative competence (ICC) and intercultural sensitivity for ethnic-minority Latinx middle school English learners (ELs) using a mobile-assisted funds-of-knowledge-featured writing practice.
Design/methodology/approach
Through the theoretical lens of funds of knowledge, this three-year study implemented a survey-based quasi-experimental design centered on the Latinx ELs’ ICC development with the implementation of an intercultural sensitivity questionnaire (Chen and Starosta, 2000). The authors first investigated the relationship between ELs’ intercultural sensitivity and associated demographic and socio-economic factors. The authors then examined the changes of ELs’ intercultural sensitivity. Over ten weeks, the intervention group completed five funds-of-knowledge-featured narrative essays using pen and paper and mobile-based writing tools alternatively.
Findings
Findings indicated that ELs’ intercultural sensitivity increased as they advanced to a higher-level grade from sixth to eighth. The embedded mobile-assisted funds-of-knowledge writing practice as intervention promoted ELs’ intercultural sensitivity in interaction engagement, respect of cultural differences, interaction enjoyment and interaction attentiveness. Among the variables, interaction enjoyment was portrayed the most. ELs who reported not speaking English at home were statistically significant in this experiment.
Originality/value
This study acknowledges the robust and variance of funds of knowledge as a niche to address the interculturality and hybridity of ELs’ cultural practices accumulated through Latinx ELs’ family socialization and social development using mobile-assisted writing practice. This study could provide implications for optimizing inclusive experience to promote computer-assisted language learning in a contemporary, postcolonial global world.