Research consultations in the academic library: A scoping review on current themes in instruction, assessment and technology

This scoping review highlights the characteristics, assessments and technologies used to describe, improve and promote one-to-one research consultations as a mode of research support and instruction in academic libraries. A search for relevant studies was conducted using LISTA, LISA, ERIC, Scopus and Web of Science, limiting to empirical evidence or studies outlining the use of technology within library practice, published from 2013 to current, in the English language. Supplemental search methods included a grey literature search, handsearching, and cited reference searching. From 2268 records, 43 studies were identified for inclusion. Of these, 17 studies described using consultations in the delivery of information literacy instruction, 33 evaluation studies reported on student, faculty, and librarian outcomes, and 15 articles discussed the use of technology. Users reported an overwhelming positive experience while mixed learning outcomes were seen in performance assessment studies. The assessment methods and uses of technology outlined in this review can be used by librarians to inform service delivery and provide evidence of the value and impact of research consultations on the academic mission of the library and its institution.