Abstract

In lower elementary integrated curriculum, classes using diverse materials related to learning topics are expanding. However, in the current school library catalog system, the Digital Library Service (DLS), searching for materials using subject headings is challenging. This difficulty stems from inconsistent subject heading practices and the lack of controlled vocabulary, resulting in lower accuracy and recall in searches. Therefore, this study aimed to improve access to learning materials by developing a subject thesaurus linked to the second-grade integrated curriculum. The research methodology included literature review and case studies to establish criteria for subject term extraction and selection, followed by systematic structuring of the thesaurus according to ANSI/NISO Z39.19 guidelines for defining term relationships. To validate the thesaurus, a survey was conducted from late April to early May 2024 with 50 teachers and librarians working in elementary schools. Results indicated that teachers and librarians found the thesaurus beneficial for both educational resource searching and material utilization. This study suggests that a thesaurus tailored to the integrated curriculum can enhance the DLS subject search functionality and increase accessibility to various learning materials in elementary schools.