Global Digital Libraries: A Historical Perspective and Architectural Considerations

Digital libraries will replicate many of the features of traditional libraries, but they may also draw on techniques developed by video rental companies and bookstores in making information both readily accessible and attractively presented. A generalized schema for global information systems of this type is essential; it must address issues of data structure and system interoperability so that information of all types can be freely exchanged across whatever platforms may develop in the future. The ability to search, identify, and retrieve not only text but recorded sound and complex images depends on a systematic approach to handles and metadata. The mode of access to data will be partly determined by economic and social forces and could require additional tagging. The global digital library may well be an inevitable next stage in the evolution of information sharing, but its implementation requires a plan that addresses the complexities of these issues on a broadly conceived and coherent basis

In the Gap: Peer Support Group Experiences for Post-Graduate, Pre-Licensed Counseling Candidates

Counselor development evolves throughout one’s professional tenure. One unique phase is the developmental gap post-graduation and pre-licensure in which counseling candidates develop an autonomous sense of self beyond the institution in which they were trained. This study sought to explore those “in the gap” experiences for eight CACREP graduates who participated in a five-session peer support group. A content-driven thematic analysis revealed (a) a feeling of disconnection and (b) a sense of disillusionment brought participants to the group, and (c) a need for homecoming, (d) a call for continued growth, and (e) a practice of empowerment were received by participants from the group. Outcomes promote continued support to counseling graduates– particularly within peer support group experiences –to offer developmental benefits in this timeframe