Peer training in expert searching: the observation effect

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine if searchersʹ observing each othersʹ search processes is an effective training method and if sharing through observation can strengthen search skills. Method: A shared email account was established among all public services librarians conducting literature searches at the Ehrman Medical Library. Three questionnaires were sent to the public services librarians soliciting input on the shared-search process. The results were analyzed for this study. Results: The shared-search process has helped searchers become more effective in searching. Colleaguesʹ viewing of the search results is a major factor influencing the searchersʹ performance. Conclusions: Easy to implement, the peer-training model is an effective way to train searchers as well as help keep skills up to date.