Course Outline (Fall 2008)

Calendar Description:

An introduction to information technology and its implications for libraries and information services.

Objectives:

By the end of this course, students should have:

1. Gained a grasp of basic concepts related to computer hardware, software and networks.
2. Had some exposure to several types of information technology that they will encounter in their careers, such as markup languages and relational databases.
3. Developed understanding of implications of information technology for libraries and information services.
4. Developed an awareness of major applications of information technology in libraries and information services.

Content:

• Overview of applications of information technology in libraries and information services
• Principles of computer operations
• Digitizing information
• Computer networks and the Internet
• Web technologies and Markup Languages
• HTML - Hypertext Markup Language
• Basic database concepts
• Social computing
• Information representation and retrieval
• Integrated library systems
• Digital libraries and repositories
• Issues and trends

Methods:

A combination of lectures, labs, discussions, and computer demonstrations will be used throughout this course. Where possible, guest lectures and/or special presentations will also be included.

Required Text:

Snyder, L. (2007). Fluency with Information Technology: Skills, Concepts, and Capabilities. 3rd edition. Boston: Addison Wesley (ISBN: 0321512391). The 1st edition (ISBN: 0201754916) or the 2nd edition (ISBN: 0321357825) is also okay.

Course Relationships:

Required course: LIS 501 is a pre- or co-requisite.
This course is a prerequisite for LIS517, LIS526, LIS532, LIS534, LIS535, LIS536, LIS538, LIS590, LIS597, LIS598 (Databases), and LIS599.

Inclusive Language & Equity:

The Faculty of Education is committed to providing an environment of equality and respect for all people within the university community, and to educating faculty, staff and students in developing teaching and learning contexts that are welcoming to all. The Faculty recommends that students and staff use inclusive language to create a classroom atmosphere in which students’ experiences and views are treated with equal respect and value in relation to their gender, racial background, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds. Students who require accommodations in this course due to a disability affecting mobility, vision, hearing, learning, or mental or physical health are advised to discuss their needs with Specialized Support and Disability Services.

Academic Integrity:

The University of Alberta is committed to the highest standards of academic integrity and honesty. Students are expected to be familiar with these standards regarding academic honesty and to uphold the policies of the University in this respect. Students are particularly urged to familiarize themselves with the provisions of the Code of Student Behaviour (online at http://www.ualberta.ca/secretariat/appeals.htm) and avoid any behaviour which could potentially result in suspicions of cheating, plagiarism, misrepresentation of facts and/or participation in an offence. Academic dishonesty is a serious offence and can result in suspension or expulsion from the University.

*Policy about course outlines can be found in Section 23.4(2) of the University Calendar.