Report on a pilot project: using a virtual classroom to develop literature review writing skills

Abstract

Skill in literature review writing is identified as a key pe,jonnance indicator of a researcher's information literacy. This paper describes the first phase of a two-phase project to develop an on-line course (virtual classroom) in literature review writing skills, undertaken by members of the Department of Librmy and Information Studies at the ML Sultan Technikon. The course is a module of a research capacity-building initiative of the National Research Foundation (NRF). The authors discuss the information retrieval and organisational competencies underpinning the composition of an effective literature review. An account is given of the development of information literacy learning materials suitable for delivery in a virtual classroom environment. A summary of the evaluation of the first phase of the project is provided in the conclusion.