Using screen capture to study user research behavior
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to report on how researchers at Penn State University used video screen capture technology to learn more about student usage of the library's databases.
Design/methodology/approach
The process of identifying and implementing a novel way to capture and analyze the human‐computer interaction is outlined and discussed.
Findings
Because of the drawbacks associated with both formal, direct physical observation of research participants and videotaping participants, video screen capture technology is chosen as a better way to track human‐computer interaction.
Practical implications
Video screen capture technology is an inexpensive, user‐friendly way to enhance electronic resource usability studies in any library. Research files can be easily exported into coding software for data analysis.
Originality/value
The paper examines a new, non‐invasive way to capture student research behavior. It shows how any library could use this same technology to conduct research on how their resources are being used by their user population.
Keywords
Citation
Imler, B. and Eichelberger, M. (2011), "Using screen capture to study user research behavior", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 29 No. 3, pp. 446-454. https://doi.org/10.1108/07378831111174413
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited