Citations and Citation Metrics in a Serial Assessment Using Master's Theses

Abstract

We analyzed serial citations in 72 marine biology master's theses as well as the ranking data of aquatic science serials from six global serial citation metrics, to assess serial use by marine biology graduate students from two perspectives. From 1,035 unique serials, a core of 123 titles was identified and evaluated for access. Citation ages averaged 13.5 years, with 27% of serial citations dated prior to 1996. Students cited serials from disciplines beyond marine biology, demonstrating broad title dispersion compared to several other studies. Recommendations are offered for future investigation to develop a stronger understanding of graduate students' use of the library's serial collection.

An Investigation of Marine Taxa Referenced in Thesis Titles and Abstracts as a Collection Development Tool

“…Emphasis and design of past citation analysis studies vary widely (Hoffmann and Doucette 2012) including investigation of citation ages (Nabe and Imre 2008), subject category (Burright, Hahn, and Antonisse 2005), and correlation with user perceptions of collection adequacy (Rossmann 2013). Numerous citation studies have been undertaken in the biological and marine/atmospheric sciences (Zipp 1996;Kuruppu and Moore 2008;Nabe and Imre 2008;Miller 2011;Kimball et al 2013;Timms 2018).…”

An Investigation of Marine Taxa Referenced in Thesis Titles and Abstracts as a Collection Development Tool

“…Emphasis and design of past citation analysis studies vary widely (Hoffmann and Doucette 2012) including investigation of citation ages (Nabe and Imre 2008), subject category (Burright, Hahn, and Antonisse 2005), and correlation with user perceptions of collection adequacy (Rossmann 2013). Numerous citation studies have been undertaken in the biological and marine/atmospheric sciences (Zipp 1996;Kuruppu and Moore 2008;Nabe and Imre 2008;Miller 2011;Kimball et al 2013;Timms 2018).…”