In view of the increasing usage of information technology in learning and teaching there is an increasing need for meaningful evaluation of the effectiveness of information technology-based media. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a web-based computer-aided learning (CAL) package enhances the learning outcomes of a laboratory-based molecular biology class. A multiplex PCR practical exercise to detect genetically modified sequences in soybean DNA was carried out by students using either traditional (non-electronic) teaching and learning resources or a web-based CAL resource. The learning outcomes were evaluated by pre-and post-class subject-based comparative tests with self-assessed confidence ratings and questionnaires. Scores relating to four modes of student learning style were assessed by questionnaire and these were correlated with the effectiveness of the support resource used. There was a significantly greater improvement in knowledge-based test performance and self-assessed confidence rating by students using CAL-based learning support versus those using traditional resources. Learning style score did not correlate with the enhancement in performance by students supported by the CAL package, although one learning style did favor a response to the traditional support package. We conclude that compared with a non-electronic alternative, the use of CAL can enhance learning and teaching outcomes in a laboratory-based molecular biology class.

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PurposeTo determine the extent and nature of library involvement in campus portal development.Design/methodology/approachCampus technology staff from US colleges and universities participating in the JA‐SIG uPortal open‐source software project were surveyed.FindingsAll respondents indicated having an active campus portal. A majority of respondents had at least one library feature on their campus portal. Some library features included automated display of information specific to the portal user such as library account information. Collaboration between campus and library staff was a common theme among institutions successfully deploying library features.Research limitations/implicationsFindings are based on a small sample of campuses currently deploying portals. Recommended follow‐up studies include surveys of institutions using proprietary portal software and surveys of library staff and end‐users.Originality/valueWhile considerable research has been done on library portals, this paper is unique in its exploration of library participation in broader campus portal initiatives. Portal features discussed and illustrated in this paper might serve as models for libraries interested in developing a presence on their campus portal.

Chhattisgarh state expresses its traditional art through handloom activities which is encouraged by various weaving various weaving cooperative societies. The present study describes various regions of Chhattisgarh in context of number of weaving cooperative societies. Role of weaving cooperative societies is also discussed. Later, numbers of active, inactive and abolished weaving cooperative societies present in each region of Chhattisgarh are studied. The study is descriptive in nature and the main source of data collection is secondary data. The study also point out such areas of Chhattisgarh where none of the active weaving cooperative societies are present. It is found that Central Region of Chhattisgarh comprises of maximum number of weaving cooperative societies in which Jangir-Champa shows highest number of weaving cooperative societies. Around 07 districts of Chhattisgarh are present with none of the active weaving cooperatie societies, so handloom activities cannot be expected in that place.

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