I chose to research makerspaces in public libraries.
Comparision:
Both articles are strong in identifying the need for the research topics. Article 1 clearly identifies the problem statement, emphasising the lack of research on public library collaboration with schools for makerspaces. Article 2 clearly justifies the purpose of the research, pointing to limited understanding of reasons for libraries to set up makerspaces. Additionally, it provides new insight into the motivations for public libraries to set up makerspaces in China, addressing a specific gap in the literature.
Article 1, while strong in identifying the problem, could improve the connection between the problem statement and the overall research design. The research adopted a qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews with public library staff from New Zealand and Australia. The sampling focused on libraries with established makerspaces and staff involved in makerspace projects. Ethical considerations, including positive engagement and confidentiality, were adhered to.
In my opinion, Article 2 was more coherent and consistent in describing the research approach, providing a detailed overview of the related literature, research questions, methodology, and findings. The methodology is very clear, involving a pilot survey and qualitative approach. Researchers ensured content validity by basing survey questions on previous literature. It would have perhaps benefited from a focus group for some greater depth.
Conclusions:
Article 2 has a stronger conclusion as it effectively addresses the research questions and provides insights into motivations for establishing makerspaces in different types of libraries. Article 1’s conclusion could be more constructive with more relevant specific examples or recommendations for effective collaboration. In summary, both articles contribute valuable insights, but Article 2 appears more comprehensive in its coverage and clearer in its presentation of the research procedure and findings.
References
Article 1
Yuen, K., & Liew, C. L. (2022). Examining Public Library Collaborative Partnerships with School Makerspaces and “Making Programmes.” Journal of Library Administration, 62(6), 793–809. https://doi.org/10.1080/01930826.2022.2102381
Article 2
Cao, F., Wu, S., & Stvilia, B. (2020). Library makerspaces in China: A comparison of public, academic, and school libraries. Journal of Librarianship and Information Science, 52(4), 1209-1223.
https://doi-org.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/10.1177/0961000620908657