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Frances BerndtWendy DavisKatya Henry

INN533.3Database project final report

Asperger’s Syndrome: Resources for Parents and Carers

Executive Summary

This report provides the management of Autism Queensland, Inc. with the details of a new resource that contributes to the education, therapy and support services provided on Autism Queensland’s website, the database Asperger’s Syndrome: Resources for Parents and Carers.

The report contains a description of the database’s topic area: Asperger’s Syndrome, and user group: parents and carers, and how this impacts on the design and selection of the resources for the database. It provides an overview of the database structure and the corresponding rules and standards. A detailed discussion of the database’s search functionality is provided, together with illustrations of how this is achieved. Following this, an evaluation of the database is offered together with recommendations for further development.

Based on the evaluation of the database and considerations for the database’s expansion, the following recommendations are made:

1. As the database grows introduce searching by date range. 2. As the database grows (and changes to definitions of diagnostic terminology

for Asperger’s Syndrome occur) expand the thesaurus.3. As the database grows consider the advantages and disadvantages of

indexing all fields. Indexing all fields is time-consuming and slows down searching. Due to the limited size of the current database, all fields are indexed however, as more records are added this would be reviewed.

4. Develop a full record return from image link in order to improve the user experience.

5. Introduce password protection for Librarian and Cataloguer views to increase the security and controls for the database.

6. As the database grows ensure that currency of new records is prioritised when choosing resources to provide a positive user experience.

7. As the database grows monitor any overlap between its content and other available information repositories of a similar scope and purpose to avoid unnecessary repetition for users.

8. Monitor and evaluate database as it grows in terms of the reliability, maintainability and portability of the software.

Table of contents

Executive Summary

1. Introduction .................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Purpose .................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Scope ........................................................................................................ 12. Database description .................................................................................... 1 2.1 Database overview ................................................................................ 1 2.2 Database structure ................................................................................. 2 2.3 Rules and standards .............................................................................. 53. Search functionality ...................................................................................... 7 3.1 Thesaurus and controlled vocabulary .................................................. 7 3.2 Database design ..................................................................................... 8 3.3 Search screens ....................................................................................... 8 3.4 Report screens ....................................................................................... 11 3.5 Edit Record screen ................................................................................. 134. Database evaluation ...................................................................................... 14 4.1 Evaluation framework ............................................................................ 14 4.2 Evaluation of database based on criteria ............................................. 15 4.3 Evaluation of the database’s recall and precision .............................. 16 4.4 Evaluation of DB Textworks .................................................................. 165. Conclusion ..................................................................................................... 176. Recommendations ........................................................................................ 18

References ......................................................................................................... 19

Appendix A: Complete data elements .............................................................Appendix B: AACR2 metadata model ..............................................................Appendix C: Rules for field validation .............................................................Appendix D: Subject heading thesaurus ........................................................Appendix E: Media format controlled vocabulary ..........................................

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Appendix F: Validation lists ............................................................................. 36

Reflective Discussion ....................................................................................... 37

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List of Figures and Tables

Figure 1: Autism Queensland homepage ............................................................ 2Figure 2: Database Menu screenshot .................................................................. 8Figure 3: User Query screenshot ......................................................................... 9Figure 4: Librarian Query screenshot .................................................................. 10Figure 5: User Report screenshot ........................................................................ 11Figure 6: Librarian Report screenshot ................................................................. 12Figure 7: Edit Record screenshot ......................................................................... 13

Table 1: Data elements ....................................………………………………….…... 3Table 2: Evaluation criteria ...................................................................................Table 3: Recall and precision evaluation .............................................................Table 4: Software evaluation .................................................................................Table 5: Complete data elements .........................................................................Table 6: Field names ..............................................................................................Table 7: Field validation rules ...............................................................................Table 8: Validation lists .........................................................................................

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F. Berndt, W. Davis, K. Henry ii

1. Introduction

1.1 PurposeThe purpose of this document is to provide the management of Autism Queensland, Inc. with the details of a database of resources about Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) for parents or carers of a child with AS.

1.2 ScopeThis report contains an overview of the topic area for the database, a description of the user group and how this impacts on the design and content of the database. It provides an overview of the database structure and the corresponding rules and standards.

Following the description of the database, a detailed report on the search functionality is provided. This includes a discussion of the database’s functionality together with illustrations of how this is achieved. Following this, an evaluation of the database is offered together with recommendations for further development. The actual database, Asperger’s Syndrome: Resources for Parents and Carers, will be submitted separately.

2. Database description

2.1 Database overview

2.1.1 Topic areaAsperger’s Syndrome (AS) falls within the broad spectrum of autistic disorders. It is characterised by an impairment in social interaction, restricted behaviour or interests, and sensory sensitivity. Unlike Autism Disorder, those with Asperger’s Syndrome have no delays in early language acquisition and may be of average or high intelligence (American Psychiatric Association, 2000).

2.1.2 Database ImperativeAutism Queensland is a not-for-profit association, the only organisation that provides comprehensive specialised services throughout the state. In addition to its schools, outreach programs, support services and advocacy, the Autism Queensland website provides a range of resources aimed at supporting people with autism and their families.

The particular diagnostic traits and requirements of those with Asperger’s Syndrome warrant the development of a resource that supports those needs. This database, situated within the ‘News & resources’ section of Autism Queensland’s website (see Figure 1 below), supports the organisation’s mission “to be a highly effective

F. Berndt, W. Davis, K. Henry 1

facilitator of quality outcomes that significantly enhances the lives of people with Autism.” (Autism Queensland, n.d.)

Figure 1: Autism Queensland homepage, retrieved September 6, 2012

2.1.3 User group and databaseThe database is aimed at parents or carers of children with Asperger’s Syndrome.

The database contains an initial 50 authoritative resources on Asperger’s Syndrome, covering diagnosis, support networks, advocacy, social issues, sensory sensitivity, educational resources, tools and therapies, biographies and memoirs. As Autism Queensland services the state-wide community, the database is designed to provide parents with information about resources that can be accessed online or from their local public libraries.

The selection of resources and the design of the database reflect the needs of the user group; they are non-expert users who will be searching for information that meets their information retrieval needs (see Sections 2.3 and 3 below for further discussion).

2.2 Database structure

The data elements chosen for the database fields have been selected according to the Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules (AACR2) and standards for Level 1 description, described in more detail in Section 2.3.1 below. Additional fields have been added both to provide sufficient information to satisfy the users’ needs and to


create as complete a record as possible, thereby reducing the need to alter/revisit the record in the future.

2.2.1 Data elementsTable 1 describes a short list of the fields to be used in the database. A more comprehensive table listing extra fields which may be considered for incorporation into the database is given in Appendix A. Use of these extra fields will be governed by the information content of the resources which are still being collected, and the needs of the user group.

Table 1: Data Elements

Data Element (Field)

Description Validation

Image Path and file name of image XRecord Number* Unique number generated by database software XTitle* Title of the item XAuthor* Writer/creator of the item Edition Resource edition other than first XPublisher Organisation responsible for publishing resource Date of Publication Year of publication XPlace of Publication City, state or city, country according to AACR2 rules XISBN/Standard Number

Standard applicable to resourceX

Subject Headings* Keywords relevant to resource Dewey Class Number

Dewey Classification NumberX

Media Format* Format of resource e.g. DVD or book Description Physical description of item e.g. no. of pages XSummary* Abstract or summary of contents XLocation* Physical location of item e.g. website or library shelf XGeneral Notes Additional description of item not covered by the

other data elements XCatalogued By* Name of cataloguer Date Created* Date record was created XDate Modified* Date record was last modified XImage reference Image related information X*Mandatory fields

Fields indicated with an asterisk (*) are mandatory and have been selected as access points for the user conducting a search, with the exception of Record Number, Catalogued By, Date Created and Date Modified which are for the benefit of the cataloguer and administrator and are essential to the ongoing maintenance of the database. Record Number is automatically generated by the software and has been included to allow for future expansion of the database or should collaboration with other database systems be required.


Fields such as Edition, Publication details, Description, and General notes have been added to provide additional information to the user, for example, how recent the resource is. Standard Number, Dewey Number and Image Reference are useful for the cataloguer and the database administrator particularly where similar versions of the same resource exist in the system.

It is anticipated that most resources will be copy catalogued with some original item-specific cataloguing.

2.2.2 Field TypeFor the Standard Number field types, Text was chosen since the record will contain letters and numbers as in ISBN 123456778910. Furthermore, a Number field is only selected if calculations will be performed on that field which is not the case for our database as it is bibliographic. Similarly, the Dewey Number field type is also Text as suggested by DBTextworks help file (2011, p. 59).

For Publication Date, a Date field has been selected so that searches can be performed on the database which will arrange the resources in chronological order. The Require strictly correct type box has been checked to prohibit non-date information from being entered.

The Image field type has been selected as Image and the record contains the file path where the image is stored. Image Reference is a Text field and will contain any information related to the Image such as a description of the image or where it was sourced from.

2.2.3 IndexingThe majority of fields are Term and Word indexed due to the increased flexibility offered when searching. Term indexing has been used in those fields where it is the software default for that field type. Using both Term and Word indexing takes more time and disk space which is acceptable in our case since the database contains few records but will need to be reviewed as more records are added over time.

2.2.4 Special Filing OptionsIgnore leading articles (such as A, An or The) is the default setting for a Text field type however DBTextworks help (2011, p 44) recommends clearing it when using numbers such as Library of Congress Control (LCCN), ISBN and Dewey Decimal numbers in a Text field.

DBTextworks (2011, p 35) also recommends clearing the Ignore leading articles and Use stop word list check boxes for the Author fields. The Use stop word list is checked by default to save indexing time and disk space and can be edited. All other Special filing options are the software default settings.


2.2.5 ValidationAll Title, all Author and all Publication details fields, the Standard number, Subject Headings, Media Format, Location and Catalogued by fields are subject to validation.

The Title, Author, Subject Headings, Summary, Location, Media Format and Catalogued by fields are mandatory and require Field entry to avoid returning an error message. These are the minimum fields deemed necessary for creating a credible catalogue entry. “Unknown” has been added where information relating to a mandatory field could not be found. Validation lists that allow content to be over-ridden and new terms added to the list have been selected for the Author fields, Publication details fields and Location field. This is to ensure consistency with data entry and spelling and data in the lists can be accessed by pressing F3.

The Catalogued By field currently makes use of a substitution list requiring only the initials of the cataloguer to be entered for faster data entry. For the purposes of this project, only three names are required, each with different initials, however in future, should new cataloguers populate the database, a validation list should preferably be used in the event of two cataloguers having the same initials.

Single entry has been selected for the Publication Date, Standard Number and Media Format fields to make the search process more accurate and efficient, and reduce clutter in the record.

Only the Standard Number field has been defined as Unique, since all entries for the purposes of this database are unique. However, as the database grows, this will need to be revisited (e.g., Chapters in a book will have the same ISBN number)

A thesaurus specific to the Asperger’s topic and the needs of the user group has been developed and will be employed in addition to a controlled vocabulary for the Subject Headings field. A basic thesaurus was developed and includes broader, related and narrower terms to assist cataloguers with keyword selection. A validation list was added for ease of data entry and to capture colloquial terms used by users such as “teens”. As the database expands more attention can be paid to developing a more comprehensive thesaurus. Further discussion of the thesaurus is provided in Sections 2.3.3 and Section 3.1 below.

2.3 Rules and standards

2.3.1 AACR2 metadata modelThe bibliographic database is structured around a number of recognised cataloguing and classification rules and standards. AACR2 has been selected as the default metadata standard for the database. AACR2 was chosen to maintain consistency with Libraries Australia and other existing information repositories such as the National Library of Australia (NLA) that use this metadata scheme. As Kiorgaard


(n.d.) observes AACR2 is currently the most widely adopted standard in the English-speaking world and it has also been translated into 24 other languages. Although it appears that AACR2 is set to be replaced by the Resource Description and Access (RDA) standard this has not yet happened. RDA is based on AACR2 but would allow for greater flexibility in terms of compatibility with encoding standards, as well as including the ability to reflect bibliographic relationships between records, and presenting content regarding authority control (Kiorgaard, n.d.). Nevertheless, some concerns have been expressed as to whether RDA will eventually be successfully implemented. As Doyle and Hillman (2007) note, there are some queries around the development of RDA, particularly in terms of its capacity to adapt to the changing information environment. Although the NLA (2012) states that it will begin using RDA in the first half of 2013, the decision has been made for this project to stay with AACR2. Should the project continue past the date at which RDA becomes broadly implemented, the database would follow the model of the NLA and begin using RDA as appropriate (NLA 2012).

Consistency across the cataloguing of information and records is important for users in order for them to be able to move between different information tools and organisations. AACR2 has three levels of description and for the purposes of this database Level One of this standard has been employed. The user group is not information professionals, researchers, students or specialists in the topic chosen for the database. Instead, they are non-expert users who will be searching for information that meets their information retrieval needs. Therefore, the higher levels of complexity offered by the second and third levels of AACR2 are not required (see Section 2.1.3 above).

Appendix B provides further detail about AACR2 cataloguing rules as they would apply to the database should the software employed allow for such functionality.

Appendix C outlines the modified and adapted AACR2 rules the project is employing for validating the data entered in each field.

2.3.2 Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) The bibliographic database employs two other forms of classification rules and controlled vocabularies in each record. The first is the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC). Although not a compulsory field in our database, DDC is included because of its familiarity for our user group due to its use in public libraries. It also possesses the advantage in terms of classification systems in being an enumerative (list) scheme, which has features that also align with faceted (constructed) schemes (Batley, 2005, p. 5). As Batley (2005, p. 5) outlines, DDC enumerates basic and compound subjects, but there is flexibility with the use of the notation schedules that can be employed to construct new notations that more completely encompass the aboutness of particular items. Although in this project DDC is employed as applicable, it also provides a point of consistency between existing records of the


database’s items in other information repositories. Moreover, because DDC also indicates the physical location of an item, its use here as a classification standard meets the needs of users who are using the database as a point from which to retrieve the physical item from another library or information organisation.

2.3.3 Thesaurus and Controlled Vocabularies The second form of classification developed for the database are thesauri (or controlled vocabularies) which are aimed specifically at the user group to meet their specific needs. Employing a thesaurus or a controlled vocabulary as a validation list supports more comprehensive and nuanced description of items, allowing a balance to be found between the highly enumerative (and somewhat restrictive) classification rules of LCSH and the faceted classification schemes such as Bliss Bibliographic Classification (BC) which is an “analytico-synthetic” classification scheme (Batley, 2005, p. 6). A faceted scheme can be more flexible and precise making them more appropriate for specialised collections (Batley, 2005, p. 6). Although developing a thesaurus has required greater thought in terms of its design as a classification system, potentially, it meets the needs of the user group in a more comprehensive and nuanced way (Batley, 2005). It is also a strategy that enhances the consistency and quality of the database through greater bibliographic control.

3. Search functionality

3.1 Thesaurus and Controlled VocabularyA Subject Heading thesaurus can be found in Appendix D, elements of which have been incorporated into the project’s database. It is envisaged that the thesaurus will be used in a comprehensive way should the database be developed further if its life goes beyond the scope of this particular project. Although the complete thesaurus found in Appendix D has not yet been implemented due to the limited scope of the current database, as the database grows beyond this project a thesaurus of the detail found in Appendix D will be essential. While LCSH provides a number of subject headings related to the topic of autism, because the project database is on a specialised topic it was more appropriate to develop a thesaurus of subject headings specifically applicable to both the user-group and the information professionals managing the quality and consistency of the database records. Although the database is a resource on the topic of Asperger’s Syndrome, the base term for the thesaurus is autism, given that it is the recognised name of the continuum of which Asperger’s Syndrome is a part. Autism is also the base term used by the LCSH so consistency for users has been maintained in employing it in the database’s thesaurus. A validation list used in conjunction with the thesaurus for the subject headings field is given in Appendix F.

Media Format is the other field that employs a controlled vocabulary as a means of validation in the database. Again, the use of a controlled vocabulary for this field is to


ensure bibliographic control within the database so that as it grows from the initial 50 records consistency and quality is maintained. The validation list used in the database is given in Appendix F and has been informed by the complete Media Format controlled vocabulary list provided in Appendix E.

3.2 Database design The database, Asperger’s Syndrome: Resources for Parents and Carers, is designed to provide an optimal user experience, within the constraints of the database software (see Section 4 below). The title of the database provides a clear description of the contents, and the visuals of the database reflect that of the Autism Queensland website, providing consistency and assurance of the authority of the resources.

Users enter the database through the Menu screen (see Figure 2 below), which offers a clear pathway for both parents and carers, and librarians. Each option leads to the relevant Search screen, blue for parents and carers, and green for librarians.

Figure 2: Database Menu screenshot

3.3 Search Screens

Two search screens are accessible from the main menu, namely the User Query screen and a Librarian Query screen.


3.3.1 User Query screen The User Query screen (see Figure 3 below) consists of a basic search and an advanced search function.

Figure 3: User Query screenshot

The Basic Search searches the Title, Author, Summary and Subject Headings fields and returns a broad overview of the records in the database. On testing the database it was found that using one keyword per search box returned more accurate search results and a note to enter a single keyword has been added to the screen (see Section 4 Evaluation below).

The Advanced Search allows the user to enter specific search terms in each search box with the added option of searching all terms, any term or excluding terms. Thus, specific searches can be conducted on the Title, Author, Subject Headings and Media Format fields. The Summary field was excluded in this case as it would return too many irrelevant results.

The fields selected for the user to search on were considered the main fields necessary to fully inform the user without providing unnecessary information. “Search tips” were added to guide the user in improving the efficiency of their search and these tips fit within the search window so the user does not have to scroll down to see them. The search tips are brief, thus allowing the user to find a quick answer to a query without reading a long explanation on how to conduct a search.


3.3.2 Librarian Query screenThe Librarian Query screen (see Figure 4 below) searches the Title, Other Title, Author, Additional authors, Publisher, Year of Publication, Subject Headings, Media Format, Catalogued by, Date Modified and Date Created fields. These fields have been selected as they are considered to be the main fields necessary to fully inform the librarian without providing irrelevant information.

Search tips were not added to this screen as they were not considered necessary for this user group.

Figure 4: Librarian Query screenshot


3.4 Report Screens

3.4.1 User Report The User Report screen (see Figure 5 below) displays information from the Image, Record number, Title, Other Title, Author, Additional Author, Summary, General Notes, Location, Dewey Number and Media Format fields. These fields are considered adequate to provide the user with the information they require and appear blank should the field not contain any data.

Figure 5: User Report screenshot


3.4.2 Librarian ReportThe Librarian Report (see Figure 6 below) displays all the fields in the record with the exception of the Image Reference field as this field is currently not utilised but may be added in future. Thus the librarian can access all the information available in the records on which they have performed a specific search. Keywords used in the search are highlighted.

Figure 6: Librarian Report screenshot


3.5 Edit Record screen The Edit Record screen for librarians contains all fields required for each record. Librarians are instructed to refer to the guidelines for formatting details (see Appendices A and C for details) with green fields being mandatory. Subject Headings and Media Format are linked to the Controlled Vocabularies, Thesauri and Validation Lists (see Appendices D, E and F).

Figure 7: Edit Record screenshot


4. Evaluation

4.1 Evaluation frameworkMiddleton (2002) provides a framework for evaluating information management operations, in this case the database, which takes into account the users of the service and the managers of the database. These guidelines have been adopted for the evaluation of the database.

Specifically, Middleton (2002, pp. 398-403) defines and describes specific evaluation parameters for databases and websites, which have been employed in the evaluation of this project’s database. As he observes, the purpose of database evaluation is to provide searchers with guidance regarding the usefulness and quality of particular databases. This report has used Middleton’s (2002) discussion to create a framework for evaluation of the database. This framework is outlined in Table 2 below.

Preliminary database testing has also been undertaken to ensure that the anticipated results are returned. This is achieved through bibliographic control. Bibliographic control ensures the most direct access to the most relevant document for the user’s information need (Hagler, 1997, p. 95). Adherence to bibliographic standards, in this case a modified version of AACR2 rules, utilisation of validation lists, and the development of a thesaurus deliver this quality control.

Two particular evaluation criteria are considered in this regard: recall and precision. If the bibliographic controls employed in the construction of the database have been effective then recall and precision for the user should be a positive experience. These criteria are connected to the other criteria outlined by Middleton (2002, p. 402) in that it is the operation of the information system that shapes the effectiveness of information retrieval. As Middleton (2002) explains, the way in which a database has been created, stored and organised has an impact on its retrieval capacity no matter what the search methods. In other words, it is vital to not only evaluate the database’s structure and functionality; user needs and user experience are of paramount importance also. This is clearly explained by Hider and Harvey (2008, p. 23). They emphasise that users must be able to easily understand the results of any search and the information they retrieve must be relevant to their needs. The system should be user friendly and be able to respond to user requests in a timely manner.

The report has evaluated the user experience with this literature as its foundation, but chooses to focus on recall and precision as concepts defined by Middleton (2002, p. 402) in its testing. It also uses Middleton’s guidelines to undertake a short evaluation of the software used for the development and implementation of the database.


4.2 Evaluation of database based on criteriaThe database was evaluated in terms of its structure and functionality in general terms (see Table 2 below). This evaluation demonstrates that every effort has been made by the creators in the design and creation of the database to ensure that the subsequent user experience will be positive.

Table 2: Evaluation criteria based on Middleton (2002)

Criterion Description EvaluationScope The contents of the database are clearly

outlined by its creatorsThe scope of the database is clearly outlined. The link to Autism Queensland is explicitly stated; furthermore, the database’s focus on resources connected to Asperger’s Syndrome is delineated in project report and by the database’s title and opening screen.

Definition The database structure description allows for distinctions to be made between and within data elements

The database structure has been carefully designed in order to enhance the user experience. All fields are outlined in detail as to their purpose and which will be mandatory so as to function as access points for users searching the database. Similarly, term and word indexing is employed to increase the flexibility of search options for users.

Comprehensiveness The database creators are successful in fulfilling their stated goals.

The database contains the stated 50 records thus fulfilling the comprehensiveness stated by the creators for its development to this stage.

Currency The database is regularly updated and material is current and timely as appropriate.

Every effort has been to source current and timely material. It is envisaged that if the database continued beyond this project it would be maintained and updated regularly so as to stay abreast of recent developments in the topic area of Asperger’s Syndrome.

Overlap The database has common points with other similar databases on the topic.

Not applicable. This criterion evaluates the database against other similar databases which is not the focus of this evaluation.

Cost The cost for user to access the database. There is no cost for users to access the database or retrieve information from it.Reliability The content in the database is

trustworthy and dependable.Every effort has been made by the creators to include reliable content related to the topic area of Asperger’s Syndrome.

Recall Relevant items can be retrieved from the database’s full number of items

See evaluation in Table 3

Precision The proportion of relevant items from the results of a particular search.

See evaluation in Table 3


4.3 Evaluation of the database’s recall and precision

Evaluating the database’s recall and precision was undertaken through the preliminary searching outlined in Section 3 above, with the results as follows:

Table 3: Recall and Precision Evaluation

Search Type Recall PrecisionBasic – keyword search for “children”

18 records retrieved Of the 18 records retrieved all were relevant to the keyword search

Advanced – author search for “attwood” combined with subject heading search for “autism”

9 records retrieved Of the 9 records retrieved all were relevant to the search.

Librarian – media format search for “book”

17 records retrieved All 17 records were of the requested format

From the preliminary testing of the database described in Table 3 it appears that each search type offered by the database has a high level of recall and precision.

4.4 Evaluation of DB Textworks

The final evaluation undertaken is that of the software employed for the development and implementation of the database. Again, the project has used the guidelines provided by Middleton (2002) for its basic evaluation criteria. Table 4 presents this evaluation.

Table 4: Software evaluation

Criterion EvaluationFunctionality Strengths: DB Textworks was generally appropriate for the scope of the

database required for this project; it provides the required results from searching; it is relatively easy to learn and performs basic tasks adequately; relatively easy to customize the appearance of database through use of forms.Weaknesses: its inability to recognise possessive apostrophes and other punctuation (eg. Asperger’s Syndrome); its lack of drop down lists with the user required to employ the F3 function; the inability to search for more than one keyword at a time; its inability to simply offer password protection for different users with different needs.

Reliability The project did not experience any difficulties with lost data, or the need to recover data as a result of a failure. As such a comment on the software’s reliability cannot be provided at this time.

Usability Strengths: DB Textwork’s ease of use for beginner database users; ability to use both validation lists and thesaurus is very convenient for cataloguing in Subject Heading field; ability to select Subject Headings, Publisher and Author from a validation list greatly increased catalogue entry speedWeaknesses: the inability to search for more than one keyword at a time


Efficiency Strengths: The database processes queries quickly and in a timely manner.

Maintainability

As the project is in its first stage it is not yet possible to provide a thorough evaluation as to the software’s response to modifications and changes.

Portability At this stage portability cannot be evaluated, as the software has not had to be moved or adapted to new platforms.

As Table 4 indicates, at this stage of the project’s database development and implementation there are some aspects of the software that cannot be evaluated as they are yet to be experienced. So far, DB Textworks has proved satisfactory in its functionality, usability and efficiency; however, there are some functions which appear difficult to implement, particularly in terms of security. At this point in the project this is not a great concern but as the recommendations indicate (see Section 5 below) it is something that needs addressing should the database grow. Maintainability, usability and portability cannot be evaluated at this stage, but as the recommendations highlight (see Section 5 below) they should be part of the continuing evaluation of the database to ensure that the database’s user experience remains optimum.

5. Conclusion

Autism Queensland is the sole state-wide organisation offering comprehensive specialised services to those with autism, together with their parents, carers, professionals and community. The Autism Queensland website provides a range of resources aimed at supporting people with autism and their families. The addition of the database, Asperger’s Syndrome: Resources for Parents and Carers, contributes to the education, therapy and support services already provided on Autism Queensland’s website.

This report provided an overview of the topic area for the database, a description of the user group and how this impacted on the design and content of the database. It outlined an overview of the database structure and the corresponding rules and standards. Following the description of the database, a detailed report on the search functionality was provided, together with illustrations of how this was achieved. Finally, a detailed evaluation of the database was made, which contributed to recommendations for the further development of the database.


6. Recommendations

Based on the evaluation of the database and considerations for the database’s future expansion, the following recommendations are made:

1. As the database grows introduce searching by date range. 2. As the database grows (and changes to definitions of diagnostic terminology

for Asperger’s Syndrome occur) expand the thesaurus to include all terms in Appendix D.

3. As the database grows consider the advantages and disadvantages of indexing all fields. Indexing all fields is time-consuming and slows down searching. Due to the limited size of the current database, all fields are indexed however, as more records are added this would be reviewed.

4. Develop a full record return from image link in order to improve the user experience.

5. Introduce password protection for Librarian and Cataloguer views to increase the security and controls for the database.

6. As the database grows ensure that currency of new records is prioritised when choosing resources to provide a positive user experience.

7. As the database grows monitor any overlap between its content and other available information repositories of a similar scope and purpose to avoid unnecessary repetition for users.

8. Monitor and evaluate database as it grows in terms of the reliability, maintainability and portability of the software.


References

American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association.

Attwood, T. (2007). The complete guide to Asperger’s Syndrome. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

Autism Queensland. (n.d.). Autism Queensland homepage. Retrieved September 6, 2012, from http://www.autismqld.com.au

Batley, S. (2005). Chapter 1: Classification in theory and practice. In S. Batley (Ed.), Classification in theory and practice (pp.1-25). Oxford: Chandos Publishing.

Doyle, K. & Hillman, D. (2007). Resource description and access (RDA): Cataloging rules for the 20th century. D-Lib Magazine, 13 (1/2). Retrieved September 20, 2012, from http://dlib.org

Hagler, R. (1997). The bibliographic record and information technology (3rd ed.).Chicago, IL: American Library Association.

Hider, P. & Harvey, R. (2008). Organising knowledge in a global society. Wagga Wagga, NSW: Charles Sturt University Press.

Inmagic. (2004). DB/Textworks User’s Manual. Retrieved October 28, 2012 from http://www.crewnoble.com/DBTextWorksUsersManual.pdf

Inmagic. (2011). DB/Textworks Version 13 Printed Help File. Retrieved September 19, 2012 from http://support.inmagic.com/Web/DBTWandWPPv13/DBTW_v13_Printed_Help.pdf

Kiorgaard, D. (n.d.). Setting a new standard: Resource description and access. Retrieved September 20, 2012 from www.nla.gov.au/sites/default/files/kiorgaard.doc

Middleton, M. (2002). Information management: A consolidation of operations, analysis and strategy [informit version]. Retrieved from http://search.informit.com.au.ezp01.library.qut.edu.au/fullText;dn=294996608172988;res=IELHSS

National Library of Australia. (n.d.). Libraries Australia. Retrieved September 6, 2012 from http://librariesaustralia.nla.gov.au

National Library of Australia. (2012). Processing and describing our collections. Retrieved September 20, 2012, from


http://librariesaustralia.nla.gov.au/

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http://blackboard.qut.edu.au/webapps/blackboard/content/contentWrapper.jsp?content_id=_4386092_1&displayName=Read&course_id=_83581_1&navItem=content&href=http%3A%2F%2Fblackboard.qut.edu.au%2Fwebapps%2Fblackboard%2Fcontent%2FcontentWrapper.jsp%3Fcontent_id%3D_3884622_1%26amp%3BdisplayName%3DSTEP%2B2%253A%2BREAD%26amp%3Bcourse_id%3D_76002_1%26amp%3BnavItem%3Dcontent%26amp%3Bhref%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fsupport.inmagic.com%252FWeb%252FDBTWandWPPv13%252FDBTW_v13_Printed_Help.pdf

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Appendix A: Complete Data Elements

Table 5: Complete Data ElementsData Element (Field)

Mandatory field

Field type Indexing Special filing options

Validation

Notes on validation lists

Description Examples and format

Image x Image T W/W x Image field cannot be validated (Inmagic, 2011)

File name of image

TempleGrandinPoster.jpeg

Record Number

Auto number

T --- x Auto number field cannot be validated (Inmagic, 2011)

Unique number generated by database software

Numeric

Title Text T+W ALL FE -- Title of the item Asperger’s Syndrome: A guide for parents and professionals

Other Title x Text T+W ALL x -- Other titles by which item may be known

Author Text T+W X IgnoreX Stop Words

FE Select “override and update content” so that cataloguer can enter new names to list

Writer/creator of the item

Last name, first name/initial: e.g. Hall, K

Additional Authors

x Text T+W X IgnoreX Stop Words

Select “override and update content” so that cataloguer can enter new names

If multiple authors and/or corporate or government authors

Autism Queensland


to listEdition x Text T+W ALL x -- Resource

edition other than first

Publisher x Text T+W ALL x Select “override and update content” so that cataloguer can enter new names to list

Organisation responsible for publishing resource

Penguin

Date of Publication

x Date* T Numbers file numerically

FESingle entry

Select “override and update content” so that cataloguer can enter new names to list

Year of publication

2012

Place of Publication

x Text T+W ALL Select “override and update content” so that cataloguer can enter new names to list

City, state or city, country according to AACR2 rules

Tolworth, England or Carbondale, Ill

Standard Number

x Text T+W X IgnoreX Stop WordsNumbers file numerically

Unique entry

Single entry

-- Standard applicable to resource

ISBN 0904576175

Subject Headings

Text T+W ALL FE From thesaurus connected to field

Keywords relevant to resource

Asperger’s; autism;

Dewey Number

x Text T+W X IgnoreX Stop WordsNumbers file numerically

x -- Dewey Classification Number

616.898

Media Format

Text T+W ALL FESingle

Validation list, user can override

Format of resource

Book, website, DVD


entry but not updateDescription x Text T+W ALL x -- Physical

description of item

Number of pages, illustrations and size

Summary Text T+W ALL FE -- Abstract or summary of contents

Location Text T+W ALL FE Select “override and update content” so that cataloguer can enter new names to list

Physical location of item

Website or library location

General Notes

x Text T+W ALL x -- Additional description of item not covered by the other data elements

Catalogued By

Text T+W ALL FE Validation list, no overrides or updates allowed

Name of cataloguer

Frances Berndt

Date Created

Auto Date T --- x -- Date record was created

Date Modified

Auto Date T --- x -- Date record was last modified

Image Reference

x Text T+W ALL x -- Additional information about image

Obtained from IMDb website

Field Type: *=Require strictly correct typeIndexing Legend: T=Term, W=Word, Special Filing Legend: W/W= Word by Word box checked, All = All boxes checked, x Ignore = Disable “Ignore leading articles” box, x Use stop= Disable “Use stop words” box.Validation Legend: FE=Field entry required


Appendix B: AACR2 metadata model

Usually, employing the first level of description of AACR2 would mean that specific cataloguing rules should be applied to the following fields in the database. This table outlines the field names chosen by the project and the corresponding AACR2 elements. The table also shows the metadata formatting required by AACR2 and how it could have been applied to one of the database’s digital items if the database software had accommodated that level of detail.

Table 6: Field names

Database Fields

AACR2 AACR2 Metadata Format

Example

Title Title Title Asperger’s, the universe and everything

Author Statement of Responsibility

/ Statement of Responsibility

/ Hall, Kenneth

Edition Edition . - EditionDate of Publication

Date , date , 2001

Place of Publication

Place

Publisher Publisher : Publisher : Jessica Kingsley LimitedMedia Format Material [material] [ebook]

Standard Numbers . – Standard Number . - 9781853029301Summary Notes . - Notes . -


Appendix C: Rules for Field Validation

Table 7: Field Validation Rules

Field Rules for ValidationImage Filename indicating file type

Example: TempleGrandin.jpgRecord Number NumericTitle Titles will use minimal capitalization except for proper nouns.

Example: Asperger’s, the universe and everythingOther Title Other titles will use minimal capitalization except for proper nouns

Example: Autism QueenslandAuthor Authors will be stated in full: Surname, First Name

Example: Smith, JohnAdd Authors Other authors will be stated in full: Surname, First Name

Example: Bloggs, JoeEdition Editions will use the following convention

Example: 1st edDate of Publication Date of Publication will follow the format: YYYYPlace of Publication Place of publication will be capitalized

Example: LondonPublisher Publishers will use maximal capitalization

Example: Oxford University Press NOT Oxford university press.Standard Number Standard Numbers will use conventional format

Example: ISBN 0904576175Subject Headings Subject Headings will be validated by the controlled vocabulary found in Appendix D and the validation list in

Appendix F.Dewey Number Dewey Numbers will use the conventional format


Example: 616.898Media Format The media format will be validated by the validation list found in Appendix FDescription Number of pages will be indicated if available and appropriate to the record

Example: 119 p.Illustrations will be indicated if available and appropriate to the recordExample: :col. illSize will be indicated if available and appropriate to the recordExample: ;22 cm.

Summary Summaries will be entered in single line spacing and full prose style. No dot points or fragments will be employed.Location Location will be indicated if available and appropriate to the record.

Example: www.abc.net.auExample: Autism Queensland Library

General Notes General Notes will be entered in single line spacing and full prose style. No dot points or fragments will be employed.

Catalogued by Cataloguer will be entered as First Name SurnameExample: Frances Berndt

Date Created Date Created will follow the format: DD/MM/YYYYDate Modified Date Modified will follow the format: DD/MM/YYYYImage Reference Image reference will be indicated if available and appropriate to the record either by description, source name or

URL.Example: YouTube LogoExample: IMDb websiteExample: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/52/Liliumbulbiferumflowertop.jpg/220px-Liliumbulbiferumflowertop.jpg


http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/52/Liliumbulbiferumflowertop.jpg/220px-Liliumbulbiferumflowertop.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/52/Liliumbulbiferumflowertop.jpg/220px-Liliumbulbiferumflowertop.jpg

http://www.abc.net.au/

Appendix D – Subject Headings Thesaurus/Controlled Vocabulary

ASUSE: Autism

ASDUSE: Autism

Asperger’sUSE: Autism

Aspergers’USE: Autism

Asperger’s SyndromeUSE: Autism

Aspergers’ SyndromeUSE: Autism

AutismNT: Autism-AdultsNT: Autism-ChildrenNT: Autism-CultureNT: Autism-DefinitionNT: Autism-DevelopmentNT: Autism-DiagnosisNT: Autism-EducationNT: Autism-HistoryNT: Autism-PeopleNT: Autism-SupportNT: Autism-TreatmentBT: Autism Spectrum DisordersNT: Asperger’s SyndromeNT: Aspergers SyndromeRT: ASDRT: ASRT: Asperger’sRT: Aspergers’

Autism-AdolescentsUSE: Autism-Children

Autism-ActorsUSE: Autism-People


Autism-AdultsBT: Autism

Autism-ArtistsUSE: Autism-People

Autism-AssistanceUSE: Autism-Support

Autism-AthletesUSE: Autism-People

Autism-AuthorsUSE: Autism-People

Autism-BabiesUSE: Autism-Children

Autism-BehaviourBT: Autism-Diagnosis

Autism-CausesBT: Autism-Diagnosis

Autism-CharacteristicsBT: Autism-Diagnosis

Autism-ChildrenBT: AutismRT: Autism-AdolescentsRT: Autism-BabiesRT: Autism-KidsRT: Autism-InfantsRT: Autism-TeenagersRT: Autism-Youth

Autism-CommunicationBT: Autism Diagnosis

Autism-Communication-VerbalBT: Autism-Diagnosis

Autism-Communication-WrittenBT: Autism-Diagnosis

Autism-Creative ArtsBT: Autism-Diagnosis


Autism-CultureBT: AutismNT: Autism-FictionNT: Autism-FilmNT: Autism-LiteratureNT: Autism-TelevisionNT: Autism-Creative Arts

Autism-CureUSE: Autism-Treatment

Autism-DefinitionBT: AutismBT: Autism Spectrum DisordersRT: Autism-HistoryBT: Autism-DiagnosisRT: Autism-Information

Autism-DevelopmentBT: AutismNT: Autism-Development-EmotionalNT: Autism-Development-HFANT: Autism-Development-High FunctioningNT: Autism-Development-MentalNT: Autism-Development-Physical

Autism-Development-EmotionalBT: Autism-Development

Autism-Development-HFABT: Autism-Development

Autism-Development-High FunctioningBT: Autism-Development

Autism-Development-MentalBT: Autism-Development

Autism-Development-PhysicalBT: Autism-Development

Autism-DiagnosisBT: AutismNT: Autism-BehaviourNT: Autism-CausesNT: Autism-CharacteristicsNT: Autism-CommunicationNT: Autism-Communication-VerbalNT: Autism-Communication-WrittenNT: Autism-Definition


NT: Autism-DisabilityRT: Autism-DevelopmentRT: Autism-Information

Autism-DisabilityUSE: Autism-Diagnosis

Autism-EducationBT: AutismNT: Autism-Education-SchoolNT: Autism-Education-ChildrenNT: Autism-Education-CurriculumNT: Autism-Education-FamilyNT: Autism-Education-ParentsNT: Autism-Education-TeachingNT: Autism-Education-TeachersNT: Autism-Education-TeenagersNT: Autism-Education-SiblingsNT: Autism-Education-Special Needs

Autism-Education-ChildrenBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-CurriculumBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-FamilyBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-ParentsBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-SchoolBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-SiblingsBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-Special NeedsBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-TeachingBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-TeachersBT: Autism-Education

Autism-Education-TeenagersBT: Autism-Education


Autism-Famous PeopleBT: Autism-People

Autism-FictionBT: Autism-Culture

Autism-FilmBT: Autism-Culture

Autism-HistoryBT: AutismUSE: Autism-DefinitionRT: Autism-Information

Autism-InfantsUSE: Autism-Children

Autism-InformationUSE: Autism-DefinitionUSE: Autism-DiagnosisUSE: Autism-HistoryUSE: Autism-Support

Autism-KidsUSE: Autism-Children

Autism-LiteratureUSE: Autism-Culture

Autism-PeopleBT: AutismNT: Autism-ActorsNT: Autism-ArtistsNT: Autism-AthletesNT: Autism-AuthorsNT: Autism-Famous People

Autism-ProgramsUSE: Autism-Support

Autism-ServicesUSE: Autism-Support

Autism Spectrum DisordersUSE: Autism

Autism-SupportBT: AutismUF: Autism-Assistance


UF: Autism-InformationUF: Autism-ProgramsUF: Autism-ServicesNT: Autism-Support-AustraliaNT: Autism-Support-Queensland

Autism-Support-AustraliaUSE: Autism-Support

Autism-Support-QueenslandUSE: Autism-Support

Autism-TeenagersUSE: Autism-Children

Autism-TelevisionBT: Autism-Culture

Autism-TherapyUSE: Autism-Treatment

Autism-TreatmentBT: AutismUF: Autism-TherapyNT: Autism-Treatment-CognitiveRT: Autism-CureNT: Autism-Treatment-MedicalNT: Autism-Treatment-Natural

Autism-Treatment-CognitiveBT: Autism-Treatment

Autism-Treatment-MedicalBT: Autism-Treatment

Autism-Treatment-NaturalBT: Autism-Natural

Autism-YouthUSE: Autism-Children


Appendix E – Media Format Controlled Vocabulary

AppBT: Digital Resource

ArticleNT: Journal ArticleNT: Magazine ArticleNT: Newspaper Article

Audiovisual ResourceNT: DVDNT: YouTube

Book

CDUF: Compact DiscBT: Sound RecordingBT: Digital Resource

Compact DiscUSE: CDBT: Sound RecordingBT: Digital Resource

ChartRT: MapRT: PosterRT: PictureBT: Graphical Resource

Digital ResourceNT: AppNT: CDNT: DVDNT: E-BookNT: PodcastNT: YouTube

DVDUF: VideoRT: FilmBT: Audiovisual ResourceBT: Digital Resource

E-BookRT: Book


BT: Digital Resource

Graphical ResourceNT: ChartNT: MapNT: PhotographNT: PictureNT: Poster

Journal ArticleUF: JournalBT: Article

Magazine ArticleUF: MagazineBT: Article

MapRT: ChartRT: PosterRT: PictureBT: Graphical Resource

Newspaper ArticleUF: NewspaperBT: Article

PictureRT: ChartRT: MapRT: PosterBT: Graphical Resource

PodcastBT: Sound RecordingBT: Digital Resource

PosterRT: ChartRT: MapRT: PictureBT: Graphical Resource

PhotographUF: PhotoBT: Graphical Resource

Sound RecordingNT: CDNT: Podcast


WebsiteUF: Internet SiteRT: Webpage

YouTube videoUSE: YouTubeBT: Audiovisual ResourceBT: Digital Resource


Appendix F – Validation lists

Table 8: Validation lists

Subject Headings Validation List Media Format Validation ListAdolescence AppAids and devices Audio BookAnger Audio FileAnxiety Blog postApp Board gameASD BookAsperger CDAsperger Syndrome ChartAsperger's DVDAsperger's Syndrome eBookAspergers Journal ArticleAspergers Syndrome Magazine ArticleAudiovisual Aids MapAutism PhotographAutobiography PictureBig Bang Theory PodcastBiography PosterBiometrics VideoBlog Webpage on websiteBullying WebsiteCats YouTubeChildren YouTube videoChildren's storybook AppComputer game Audio BookDiagnosis Audio FileDrama Blog postEducational films Board gameEmotions BookFeature film CDForum ChartGirls DVDHigh functioning autism eBookJuvenile fiction Journal ArticleJuvenile fiction Magazine ArticleMemoir MapMetaphors PhotographPodcast PicturePuberty PodcastResources PosterSchool VideoSex Webpage on websiteSocial skills WebsiteSupport group YouTube videoTeenagersTeens


VodcastWebsite


katyahenry.files.wordpress.com€¦ · web viewthis report provides the management of autism...

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