M.S. Core Courses
LIS 403 - Evaluation of Information Services
The course applies the principles of evaluation research to contemporary information
management problems. It covers the fundamentals of identifying and investigating
problems relevant to continuous quality enhancement and communicating the results
to decision makers.
Required course for students entering Fall 2005 and thereafter; for students who entered
prior to Fall 2005, this course may be taken to fulfill the program requirement
of either LIS 403 or LIS 404.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 404 - Principles of Management
Designed to acquaint students with the basic management functions of planning,
organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling. The course is intended
to help provide understanding of human interactions in the workplace and
develop the practical problem-solving skills needed to handle managerial
problems professionally. Approaches to managing, from authoritarian to participative
to laissez-faire, are examined. Readings, case studies, critical incidents,
simulations, and discussions.
Required course for students entering Fall 2005 and thereafter; for students who entered
prior to Fall 2005, this course may be taken to fulfill the program requirement
of either LIS 403 or LIS 404.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 407 - Reference/Information Services
Covers reference services, searching, and sources. Introduces reference
concepts and services, such as the reference interview, customer service, evaluating
the reference collection, management, ethics, reference philosophy, service
in different institutional settings and for diverse populations, and the assessment
of reference services. Students learn how to search in digital and print
sources, including full text information retrieval in subscription services
and the freely available web. Students become familiar with over two
hundred core, fundamental print and digital sources.
Required course.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 415 - Information Organization
The phenomena, activities, and issues surrounding the organization of information
in service of users and user communities. Topics include resource types and
formats, information service institutions, markup, descriptive metadata, content
standards, subject analysis and classification, and the information life cycle.
Readings, discussions, examinations, and oral and written exercises.
Required course.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 488 - Technology for Information
Professionals
This is a course that provides the conceptual foundation and context of computing,
Internet, and digital publishing technologies as used in information-intensive
professions. The course serves as a gateway to all other technology courses
offered at GSLIS beginning with the Fall 2005 semester. The course
provides an overview of how computers, telecommunications, networking,
and digital publishing function. Particular emphasis is upon terminology that
appears in the professional literature. Students are strongly encouraged to take
this course early in their course program.
This is a required course for students entering Fall 2005 and thereafter; it does not replace the Technology Orientation Requirement which provides hands-on skills.
Course
details (PDF)
M.S. Electives
IDIV 501 - Globalization and Diversity
This course is an intensive examination of the importance of multicultural
competence for the graduate professional programs and upper level undergraduates
at Simmons College. Undergraduates and students in the graduate schools of Social
Work, Management, Library Science and Health Studies will increase their cross-cultural
awareness, knowledge and skills to respond appropriately to the problems and
opportunities of both domestic and international demographic changes and globalization.
Additionally, the multidisciplinary nature of this course provides opportunity for
multilevel discussions and interventions (individual, group, organizational and institutional)
as students are exposed to problems specific to professional areas other than their own
while also investigating the commonality of cross cultural dilemmas in all professions.
The class uses the recent hurricane Katrina disaster as a case study that will help integrate
multidisciplinary perspectives and bring them to discussion.
LIS 406 - Organization and Management of School Library Media
Centers
Philosophy of school library/media center programs (preK-12) and its
contribution to the overall aims of education. Planning, equipping, and administering
the library/media center, with emphasis on technology and program development.
Consideration of the library/media program at local and system-wide levels,
including differentiated staffing and budgeting patterns. Course methodology
includes readings, discussion, field contacts, group activities, and written
work.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 408 - User
Instruction
This course offers an overview of user instruction, including needs assessment,
planning, educational strategies, and evaluation of programs in all types of
libraries. Critical evaluation of concepts of information literacy, learning
theories, and the goals of user instruction. Application of best practices principles
in development of user instruction program modules for either oral presentation
or online tutorials. Readings, discussion, guest lectures, oral presentations,
and a term project. Prerequisites:
12 semester hours.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 409 - Literature
of the Social Sciences
Overview of social science information, environment, structure of resources,
and users. Emphasis upon navigating through an increasingly interdisciplinary
and cross-disciplinary body of knowledge. Discussion will include the
evolution of the various disciplines, organization of inquiry, and role
of research methodologies. Techniques used to evaluate social science
information are covered. Typically includes guest speakers and field
trips. Prerequisite: LIS 407.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 411 - Information Sources for Children
This course introduces criteria and professional tools for evaluating
and selecting nonfiction books, reference materials, periodicals, nonprint
materials, and electronic resources to serve the varied needs and interests
of children in public libraries and school library/media centers. Considers
changing forms of material and aspects of how content is influenced
by format. Examines the usefulness of library catalogs and other access
tools in guiding children to appropriate information. Attention is
given to theories of critical thinking and information literacy to
expand understanding of children as users of information.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 412 - Library Programs and Services
for Young Adults (formerly LIS 531L)
This course examines the planning and delivery of information and
recreational services to meet the diverse needs of young people between
the ages of 12 and 18 in public libraries and school library/media
centers. Examination of the developmental tasks of adolescents and
relevant social, education, and demographic trends. Emphasis on the
development of library policies and collaboration with youth serving
community agencies. Attention to communication and program skills and
the promoting, funding, and evaluating of library programs and services
for teenagers.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 413 - Literature of the Humanities
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the numerous types of
standard and current works, reference materials, bibliographic sources, and
Web portals in the humanities. In addition, the course emphasizes various approaches
to searching for information and to the bibliographic structure of disciplines.
Students will evaluate sources, search for information, and investigate topics
in the humanities. Prerequisite: LIS 407.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 414 - Organization
and Management of Corporate Libraries
This course examines the history, types of libraries, staffing,
development, and future of company libraries in the United States.
Specific attention will be given to examples of highly successful models
as well as those corporate information centers which have encountered
problems. Recent research on the value of information professionals
and the perceived value of corporate libraries will be examined in
detail. Methodologies to evaluate the company library will be discussed.
Comparative data on corporate libraries in the U.S., Europe, and Japan
will be included in this course.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 417 - Subject Cataloging and Classification (new title and
description as of 9/06)
This course addresses the theories, principles, and practices of subject
cataloging and classification. It covers the application of national standards
to the creation of bibliographic records and to the construction of catalogs
in libraries and other information environments. It teaches the fundamental
concepts of subject cataloging including: understanding the various approaches
to and pitfalls in determining aboutness; vocabulary control; the theoretical
foundations, structure, and the application of LCSH in subject cataloging;
classification theory; and the application of the major classification schemes
(DDC and LCC). The course also includes examinations of authority control for
subject headings, the MARC format for classification data, and other major
subject access systems from around the world, including UDC, Colon, Bliss,
Expansive classification, PRECIS, FAST, TGM, AAT, MeSH, Sears, etc. May include
readings, discussions, presentations, exams, and written exercises. Pre-requisite:
LIS 415.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 418 - Technical Services
Organization,
administration, and functions of technical services, including selection,
acquisition, and management of monographic, serial, print, and electronic
resources; management of metadata, cataloging, and preservation functions;
commercially available technology and services, including outsourcing and
vendor-supplied metadata, to support technical services functions; and consortial
purchasing and other cooperative projects. Course may include lecture, readings
and discussions on current topics, guest lectures, field trips, papers, and
other individual projects.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 419 - Subject Analysis
Design, evaluation, and improvement of systems providing subject access to information
resources. Indexing, classification and taxonomy, indexing language development,
abstracting, algorithmic approaches. Subject organization and retrieval in a
range of information systems and settings, including Web sites, subject gateways,
and digital libraries. Practical exercises, individual or group projects, in-class
presentations. Prerequisites: LIS 407 and LIS 415.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 420 - Book Publishing and Librarianship
The course focuses on the book publishing industry and its relationship
to the library profession. Students examine all the segments of the publishing
process: editorial, design, manufacturing, marketing, and sales. The course
explores current issues in the book publishing industry; it helps librarians
develop critical skills to evaluate books; it clarifies aspects of copyright
as related to printed material; and it provides information about ways
libraries can influence what appears in print and can take advantage of
current conditions in the publishing marketplace. Also included are guest
speakers from the publishing industry, media presentations, and individual
research papers.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 421 - Social Informatics
"Social Informatics" refers to the body of research and study that examines
social aspects of computerization - including the roles of information technology
in social and organizational change and the ways that the social organization
of information technologies are influenced by social forces and social practices.
This graduate seminar is for students interested in the influence of information
technology in the human context, including cultural heritage, professional concerns,
and social inequities. The course introduces some of the key concepts of
social informatics and situates them into the view of varied perspectives including
readers, librarians, computer professionals, authors, educators, publishers,
editors, and the institutions that support them.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 422 - Literacy and Services to Underserved
Populations: Issues and Responses
This course provides an overview of the social, economic, and political impact
of adult functional illiteracy in the United States; it discusses the issue
at both the federal and state level with implications for library involvement
at the community level. Emphasis will be placed on the analysis of the literacy
needs of a community and at the development and implementation of programs
to meet that need. It will introduce advocacy, training, budgeting, staff
recruitment, student assessment and instruction, publicity and program evaluation
of both traditional and innovative library-based literacy/ESOL programs; it
will suggest approaches to serve traditionally underrepresented communities
by exploring how to improve equity of access to those populations.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 423 - Storytelling
This course examines cultural origins and contemporary practices of oral
storytelling. It explores the psychological and social value of stories and
practical and ethical issues in selecting, adapting, and presenting story
materials. Students observe and practice storytelling and develop a personal
repertoire of stories. Readings, class discussion and exercises, and course
assignments will acquaint them with a wide variety of story types, skills
of story presentation, and the development of story programs.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 424 - Moving Image Collections in Libraries and Archives
Moving images are a major medium for information, communication, education, research,
and artistic expression. This course is an introduction to the management and use of
moving image collection in libraries and archives. Course topics include: history of the
technology; development of moving image archives; film, video and new media care and
handling and current preservation issues; providing intellectual access; field-specific
systems of description and standards; appraisal; curating a film archive and the role of
the programmer. Prerequisites: LIS 415.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 425 - History of the Book
The course will cover a wide variety of topics concerned with the history
and development of the book, both as a physical object and as the bearer of
intellectual content. Therefore, the lectures / discussions will look at two
different kinds of phenomena: the physical properties of the objects that
carried written and pictorial texts and the intellectual use to which books
have been put. A third area that the course will address picks up the
miscellaneous but important issues of the world of libraries; the
antiquarian and out-of-print book trade; remainders; handling, storing,
caring for, repairing, and conserving books; legal considerations of
book/text ownership and use; and other areas of book history. Students will
be introduced to the extensive vocabulary of the book world. With a mastery
of this new vocabulary, the students will have a grasp of a subject of
extraordinary breadth, boundless fascination, and endless debate. As Milton
said, "A good book is the precious life blood of a master spirit." This
course will explain why. Formerly LIS 532.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 426 - Curriculum Frameworks and
Instructional
Strategies for Library Teachers
This course provides an in-depth
examination of the organization, structure, and content of the Massachusetts
Curriculum Frameworks. Students will identify those aspects of these standards
and frameworks that link to student achievement through library based learning,
instruction and activities. Emphasis will be on the planning, organization,
and implementation of library-based instructional activities; the use of library
instructional techniques to implement frameworks, content and skills, and
library-teacher classroom collaboration. Cross-disciplinary
learning, discovery-based learning, differentiating instruction, and literacy
and research skills will be key topics.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 427 - Issues in Information Policy
This course covers a wide range of issues associated with government, national
and international, of importance to various stakeholder and interest groups.
The course, which is intended for information managers, focuses mostly on national
governments, and it specifically examines basic information policies and, to
some extent, those of international organizations; the policy formulation and
review process; the political economy of information; information management
in the context of life cycle management; and especially intersections and differences
between and among stakeholders and interest groups. Prerequisite: LIS 407
Course details (PDF)
LIS 428 - U.S. Government as Publisher
Within an information policy context, the course examines the life cycle of
government information, with particular emphasis on public access issues, the
evolution from distribution to dissemination, and the emergence of e-government--a
multi-faceted concept. Students learn to navigate through a rich body of current
and historical literature.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 430 - Business Information
Sources and Services
A survey of print and electronic information sources as well as coverage of
basic business concepts is provided. It will include sources basic to business,
finance, trade, company and industry reference and be both national and international
in scope. The objective will be to familiarize students with source material
including government sources and statistics, industry and trade literature,
used for business research. Attention will also be paid to the information
needs of business people and researchers as well as the issues and concerns
associated with business information gathering and research. Prerequisite:
LIS 407.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 431 - Instructional Strategies for Effective Teaching and
Learning in the School Library Media Center
This course provides an in-depth look at the pedagogy of teaching and learning,
including an analysis of the research base that informs the use of specific instructional
strategies as it relates to pedagogy. It is structured to enable the future library
teacher to understand his/her role and responsibilities as a teacher and instructional
partner with the classroom teachers with whom they will work. Students will be exposed to
preparation of presentations utilizing computer technology and presentation software,
distance learning technology and copyright.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 433 - Oral History
This course is in four components: 1] studying the ethics and responsible practice
of oral history; 2] studying the mechanics of analog and digital recording;
3] developing a project to document a life, event, occupation, family, institution
or experience; 4] archiving, providing access and preserving analog and digital
recordings. The class will make use of films, field trips and guest lecturers.
All projects must secure the approval of the Simmons College Internal Review
Board.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 434 - Medical Librarianship
Basic concepts and trends in the organization and management of the medical
library. Selection, organization, and utilization of print and electronic
medical literature and information. Emphasis on the institutional and environmental
information needs of medical education, research, and practice in which the
health sciences librarian works. Utilization of the online databases
and controlled vocabularies from the National Library of Medicine and experience
in the navigation, identification, and evaluation of Internet-based medical
and health information resources. Current and future trends in health
sciences librarianship .
Course details (PDF)
LIS 435 - Music Librarianship
Scope, types, and functions of music libraries; their physical and
intellectual organization and administration. Included are principles
and techniques of selection, acquisition, classification, cataloging,
binding, storage, and dissemination of music materials; principles,
techniques, and materials of music reference and research; music publishing
and recording, including listening facilities; and philosophy and functions
of the music librarian. Music-reading ability and substantial music
literature background required. Prerequisite: LIS 415.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 437 - Legal Information Sources
Study of legal information; origins, organization, dissemination, and
use of legal media, as well as techniques of basic legal research. Prerequisite:
LIS 407.
Course details (PDF)
LIS
438 - Introduction to Archival Methods and Services
Fundamentals of a wide range of archival activities including
appraisal, acquisitions, arrangement, description, reference, and access.
Overview of history and terminology of the profession. Discussion of
the types and varieties of archival repositories and the value of historical
records beyond traditional research use. Course includes a required
60-hour internship completed in an archives or manuscript repository. Required
course for Archives Management Concentration.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 439 - Preservation
Management in Libraries and
Archives
This course covers the fundamentals of planning and managing programs of prevention
and remedial treatment for the preservation of information resources in libraries
and archives. The study of the nature of all types of materials and the
factors contributing to their deterioration serves as background. Preservation
planning topics, such as environmental control and light, security, risk management,
fire prevention, housekeeping and storage, general collections maintenance and
testing methods, are covered. Additional topics include: emergency
planning in the areas of preparedness, mitigation and response; selection of
materials for basic repair, conservation or reformatting; budgeting for preservation
activities; preservation training for staff and users; digital preservation;
and cooperative programs. Course includes readings, guest lectures, media
presentations, field trips, demonstrations, and individual projects. .
Course details (PDF)
LIS 440 - Archival Access and Use
Explores access to and use of archives and manuscript collections within the
framework of archival description and representation. How archives are described
and the surrogates that are used to represent them profoundly impact their access
and use and are central to the archives profession. Students will explore various
types of archival use including exhibits (physical and virtual) in addition
to the creation of surrogates for primary sources and will gain a theoretical
and practical understanding of EAD (Encoded Archival Description) as well as
other emerging metadata standards. Course includes a sixty-hour internship project
completed in an archives-related setting. Required course for Archives Management
Concentration. Prerequisite: LIS 415 and LIS 438
Course details (PDF)
LIS 441 - Appraisal of Archives and Manuscripts
Archival appraisal, or the assessment and evaluation of archival records
to determine their continuing value for long-term retention, is one of the
central and most critical challenges and responsibilities of the archivist.
Building on the introductory exposure to appraisal offered in LIS 438, this
course will focus on developing a theoretical framework for appraisal by introducing
students to the strategies and methodologies of appraisal, through case studies
and by exploring appraisal models developed and implemented within the profession.
It will place the issues and activities of appraisal within the context of the
documentation of society and the preservation of organizational and community
memory. Prerequisite: LIS 438
Course details (PDF)
LIS 442 - Establishing Archives and Manuscript Programs
Developing a knowledge base that encompasses a variety of competencies around
sustaining an archives is vital for archivists who often work in small one
or two person repositories or may face the challenges of establishing new repositories.
This course will analyze the requirements of such small or emerging programs
and focus on the ways to develop strategic plans, locate and pursue sources
of funding, market and design outreach, understand the physical and intellectual
resources of an archival facility; and sustain program growth. The class will
also examine these issues within the context of different types of archives
(i.e. government, academic, historical societies). Prerequisite: LIS 438
Course details (PDF)
LIS 443 - Archives, History, and Collective Memory
This is a bridge course between Archives and History that explores the relationship
between historical events, the creation and maintenance of archival records,
and the construction of collective memory. It analyzes the role of archives
and records in the process of documenting and remembering (or forgetting) history.
Focusing on twentieth century events, it considers such archival issues as
repatriation, records destruction, contested history, and memory construction.
These issues are presented within the context of various types of records such
as genealogical records, oral records, and records of material culture (artifacts)
in addition to traditional print materials. Required for Dual Degree Archives/History
students. Prerequisite: LIS 438 for Archives Concentrators and dual degree
students
Course details (PDF)
LIS 444 - Archiving and Preserving Digital Media
(formerly LIS 531K)
The preservation and retention of media in digital environments are increasingly
urgent issues for archival digital repositories. This course focuses on archiving
and preserving a wide variety of digital media (primarily text, image, sound,
moving images, and web sites) as well as thinking in a long-term way about
overcoming the many challenges. Topics under discussion will include the characteristics
of digital media that make a difference in their long-term preservation, media
formats, rights issues, digital asset management, each addressed theoretically,
historically, and practically. Please note: this class is not limited to
Archives concentrators. All students are welcome. No prerequisite.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 446 - Art Documentation
Generation, management, and dissemination of art information in art libraries,
visual collections, and museums. Examination of art historical methodology and
impact of new technologies of research; challenges of developing collections
with unique format materials; developments in technologies and their impacts
on art libraries; developments in cooperative programs to establish standards
for cataloging, organizing and disseminating visual materials; interrelatedness
of automated documentation projects in libraries, archives, visual collections,
and museums. Course requires class discussion, reading and written assignments,
an individual or group project and in-class presentation. Prerequisite: LIS 415
Course details (PDF)
LIS 447 - Collection Maintenance
This course in preservation management deals with the planning, implementation,
and management of an effective collections maintenance program, including an
effective repair program for a small/medium general collection. Topics include
developing criteria for the selection of items in need of repair, binding,
or replacement; learning the proper repair and housing techniques for bound
and unbound materials in order to be able to administer an in-house repair
program; selecting and processing materials for remote storage facilities;
the cost factors involved in developing a collections maintenance program for
general collections; and selecting and managing staff, space, equipment, and
supplies for such a program.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 448 - Preservation Technologies
This course in preservation management deals with the understanding of the
various technologies available to assist in the preservation of information
resources. It explores the benefits and problems of the various technologies
and provides a solid basis for a library or archive to select one or more of
the technologies as part of a preservation plan for its general collections.
The topics include paper splitting; mass deacidification; reformatting technologies
such as microfilming, preservation facsimile copying, photoduplication, and
digitization; digitization of text, image, audio and video; digital repositories;
environmental controls; and fire suppression and detection.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 450 - Organization
and Management of Public Libraries
Examines the principles and techniques of planning and delivering public library
services to individuals and communities. Emphasis on preparation of a community
profile and development of service goals and objectives, with attention to library
relationships with other community agencies. Examination of the governance and
service structure of metropolitan and town libraries with consideration of political,
fiscal and societal trends affecting them. Analysis of the library needs
of specific groups and the means of implementing particular programs and services.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 451 - Academic Libraries
Survey of the development, current state, and future directions of college and
university libraries. The focus will be on broad issues within a context that
connects academic libraries, and their infrastructure, with their parent institutions.
Such issues include managing change, scholarly communication, publishing, information
technology, advocacy, evaluation and assessment, planning, budgeting, and higher
education. Prerequisite: LIS 407.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 453 - Collection Development and Management
Activities through which library collections are systematically developed
and managed are explored, especially the formulation and implementation
of written collection development policies. Other specific topics include
identification of user needs; collection evaluation; fund allocation
among competing departments, subjects, and/or media; selection methods;
intellectual freedom; storage alternatives; and cooperative collection
development. Course includes readings, guest lectures, and a term project
in which a collection development policy for a real information agency
is prepared. Prerequisites: LIS 407 and LIS 415 or the permission of the instructor.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 454 - Digital
Information Services and Providers
Provides a survey of the use and management of commercial electronic
resources. The course will focus on search strategies and logics as
applied to online databases in bibliographic, full-text, numeric, and
directory formats. Focuses on management considerations such as client
relationships, collection development, equipment purchasing, and the
management of public access services. Trends in electronic publishing
both in multimedia CD-ROM and the World Wide Web are explored. Instructional
methods include lecture, online demonstrations, hands-on training,
and guest speakers. Prerequisite: LIS 407
Course details (PDF)
LIS 455 - Applied Information
Systems Design
Applied information systems design is the continuation of Systems Analysis
and Design. In this course, students review the range of information systems
used in many information environments and will build a complete information
system based on the analysis in the other course or another project of their
own choosing. The course goes into much greater depth about the technical and
implementation issues, types of commercial information systems, technical white
papers, SQL, client-server architecture, applied human-computer interaction. Students
should have intermediate-level experience in at least one of the following: Java,
Perl, PHP, SQL, JavaScript, ASP, JSP, C++, Macromedia Flash, ActionScript, or
GIS and be proficient in at least one of the following: Mac OSX, WindowsXP,
Unix or Linux. Code samples are provided in Java and demonstrated as servlets
or applets, or asp applications, on the class's web server running Apache Tomcat,
MySQL, with perl and php modules. Prerequisite: LIS 488.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 456 - Managing
Records in Electronic Environments
Records Management is an essential component of archival practice. This course
covers the principles, standard, procedures, and technologies utilized in modern
recordkeeping and information resources management. Topics include appraisal,
scheduling and disposition, systems theory, functional analysis, systems design
and electronic records management and policy. Required course for Archives
Management Concentration. Prerequisite:
LIS 415 (LIS 438 is recommended as a pre-requisite for archives concentrators)
Course details (PDF)
LIS 457 - Digital Publishing
Whether delivered on the Internet or in print, publishing is now produced in
digital formats. One of the most significant effects of the digitization of
publishing is that the concept of who is a publisher has significant expanded.
Many institutions, particularly libraries, archives, and museums, find themselves
assuming the role of publisher. Moreover, in addition these institutions also
deliver and manage the digital content they acquire from publishers. This course
demonstrates how this content are constructed and from both traditional and
nontraditional publisher perspectives, such as institutional repositories. The
overall goal is to present the "big picture" view of the digital publishing
process from conceptualization to final product. This course will introduce
students to the core and evolving technologies of digital publishing and the
software applications used to create them. Prerequisite: LIS
488
Course details (PDF)
LIS 458 - Database Management
Principles and practices of database management and database design. Discussion
and practice cover database application lifecycle, data modeling, relational
database design, SQL queries, reports and other interfaces to database data,
and documentation. Lectures also cover Web databases, XML, multimedia databases,
and ethical and privacy issues associated with database systems. Individual
and group projects. Prerequisites: LIS 488 and Technology Orientation Requirement
(TOR).
Course details (PDF)
LIS 460 - Technology
and the School Library Media Center
This course will prepare the library media specialist for integrating
emerging technologies successfully within the work environment. Topics will
include resources for curriculum development, such as multimedia programs,
CD-ROMs, and the Internet and other online services, as well as automated library
systems. There will be an opportunity for hands-on learning, and for discussion
of issues arising from technology implementation. In-service education, with
the role of the library media specialist as an active resource person and a
leader in technology implementation, will be emphasized throughout the course. Prerequisites: LIS 407 and Technology Orientation Requirement.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 461 - Multimedia
Technology for Information Management
This course examines first the definition and role of multimedia as an information
channel and then considers the application of multimedia in different environments.
In this course we examine data modeling for multimedia applications, production,
and web-based distribution. Students will develop a multimedia product, touching
on all stages of product development, from needs assessment, storyboarding,
resource library ("information architecture") to using authoring software, such
as Macromedia Flash, or dynamic web applications. There are no programming skills
or other technical requirements, other than successful completion of the IT
Core Class. Prerequisites: LIS 488 and Technology Orientation Requirement.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 462 - Digital Libraries
Digital libraries are regulated collections of distributed networked resources
made accessible to users, usually through a transparent and standardized interface.
This course will examine publicly and privately funded digital library projects
in the US and internationally, and will explore evolving definitions and visions,
as well as issues such as preservation and intellectual property. Through hands-on
investigation, students will also become familiar with the components of digital
libraries, and with digital library research. Assignments will include (but
are not limited to) papers and presentations. Prerequisites: LIS 415 and LIS 488
Course details (PDF)
LIS 465 - Knowledge Management
This course introduces information professionals to the basics underlying the
KM function--the organization and dissemination of the information that an organization
already owns. Seventy-five percent of the course will address KM from a management
perspective and the remainder will introduce the document management issues
that the elective courses listed below will further develop. Various aspects
of managing KM will be covered such as its link to organizational strategy,
costs, benefits, standards, and professionals' roles. Also, operational components
will be introduced, including taxonomies, thesauri, indexes, and the retrieval
of textual information. Case studies are included.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 466 - Information Retrieval
(formerly LIS 531H)
This course covers all aspects of Information Retrieval (IR). In this class,
students study technical foundations of text-based retrieval: IR models, system
evaluation, improvements on retrieval through relevance feedback, human-computer
interaction for IR, multimedia IR, and IR in the library, especially web, library,
and digital library applications. Some specific class topics include interactive
information visualization, IR and multimedia, free-text searching and the integration
of semantically-tagged records, language issues that form domain-specific retrieval
research programs (e.g. bioinformatics, medical librarianship; latent semantic
indexing, generalized vector model and Markov-chain clustering techniques). Prerequisite:
LIS 488
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 467 - Web Development and Information Architecture
(formerly LIS 531G)
Organizing and structuring content to help individuals, communities, and
organizations find and manage internal and external Web-based resources and
services. Application of current coding, metadata, and style standards to create
Web documents. Evaluation of Web site quality and usability, and assessment
of resource discovery tools. Strategic planning and user needs analysis for
information architecture. Content inventory, organization, and management in
support of wayfinding and navigation. Design documents for prototyping large
Web sites. Readings, essays, design projects, in-class presentations. Prerequisites:
LIS 407 and 488
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 469 - XML - eXtensible Markup Language
(formerly LIS 531F)
This course introduces students to eXtensible Markup Language (XML), its
role as a standard in enabling and managing metadata applications, and its
application as a data-modeling technique. Students create XML schemas and document
type definitions (DTDs), and learn to apply transformations using eXtensible
Stylesheet Language (XSL). The course examines a wide range of applications
of XML in libraries, archives, and related information settings, and considers
the technical requirements of making XML-tagged content available and useful
to Web browsers and to metadata harvesting applications such as the OAI (Open
Archives Initiative). Topics include XML applications in bibliographic utilities,
cross-walks between XML and other systems, the role of XML as an alternative
or complement to the structured database model, and managing metadata services
with XML. Please note: This is a new course being offered beginning in
the 2005-2006 academic year. Prerequisites: LIS 415 and 488
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 470 - Visual Communication
Intensive study and analysis, through illustrated lectures, of visual forms
of information and communication. Upon a foundation of the history of
graphic forms of communication, semiotics, philosophy, and media analysis, students
study the basics of theory and iconographic languages to understand visual information
resources in society in general and specifically in libraries, archives, and
emerging visually-rich environments. Topics may include visual literacy,
rare books, prints and printmaking, typography, photography, posters, ephemera,
propaganda, digital images, exhibit construction, and other topics driven by
student interests. The readings and activities from a foundation of (a)
graphic/visual knowledge, (b) theory, (c) history, and (d) application in LIS.
Students will be able to pursue media studies, human-computer interaction, information
architecture and related topics with greater understanding.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 471 - Photographic
Archives and Visual Information
Photographs as visual information. Problems of meaning, context, and definition.
Responsibilities of the photo archivist. History of major types of photographic
artifacts and development of photographic genres. Characteristics of 19th century
processes. Special problems of subject access and remote access. Utilization
by scholars, visual researchers, and communication industries. Onsite examination
of management practices in a variety of institutions. Guest specialists include,
when possible, visitors from special libraries, historical societies, major
archives, museums, and picture agencies. Prerequisite: LIS 415
Course details (PDF)
LIS 473 - Fiscal Management of Library and Information Systems
An overview of budget management for libraries, information-related institutions,
and projects. Understanding, planning, developing, justifying, and presenting
budgets, are issues discussed relative to money management tools and techniques.
Alternate revenue sources, including the establishment and growth of foundations
and endowments, as well as investments, audits, and risk management, are also
explored.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 475 - Organizational/Information Ethics
The course will examine the ethical implications of decisions made
within various organizational contexts regarding issues such as property
ownership, strategy formulation, the utilization of computer technology,
employee relations, accountability, conflicts of interest, as well
as other topics relevant to today's managers. Participants will examine
the ethical implications of cases at the individual, organizational,
and societal levels. The course will assist professionals to clarify
and apply their own moral standards and ethical norms, beliefs, and
values to unfamiliar, complex situations in which the appropriate
application of these values may not be obvious. The course makes
no effort to dictate what is "right," "proper," and "just"; that is left to the individual's own moral standards of behavior and ethical systems of belief.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 476 - Library Architecture and Space Planning
The course covers both principles and practice of all stages of library space
planning from justifying a new building/renovation to post occupancy evaluation.
Students will learn in a variety of formats including lectures, visiting libraries
individually and as a class, readings, class discussion, and evaluation of
architectural drawings. Practical experience in developing a space plan including
organization and distribution of services, building philosophy, building conditions,
space requirements, work flow, furniture, and equipment. Impact of new and
emerging information technologies on library space planning. Other topics include
moving libraries, Americans with Disabilities Act, budgets, funding for library
buildings, and evolution of libraries and how buildings have changed to meet
new needs.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 477 - Marketing the Library
What is marketing and how is it applied to libraries? Should a library utilize
advertising, public relations, publicity, promotion, and advocacy in nits approach
to its customers? Market research, planning, presentations, communication,
implementation and evaluation techniques are primary topics in this analysis
and advancement of user needs.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 478 - Information Entrepreneurship
Intended for students considering nontraditional information careers such
as (but not limited to) development of information-related products, management
of fee-based library services, establishment of information-related entrepreneurship,
etc. Emphasis on planning, marketing, and financial management.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 479 - Professional
and Scholarly Writing
Analyzes different type of documents librarians are expected to write
and use in the course of their professional careers, including job
descriptions, memoranda, letters, reports, proposals, etc., and both
popular and scholarly papers. Identifies the elements of professional
and scholarly writing and provides practice in writing selected documents,
with editorial feedback. Acquaints students with the use of computers
in writing. Lectures, in-class writing practice and critique, and individual
class projects.
LIS 481 - Children's Literature and Media Collections
This course considers critical evaluation and selection of materials for children
in public libraries and schools. Examination of the characteristics of major
genres of children's books and non-print formats. Emphasis on evaluation of
collections and the development of collection policies and procedures. Attention
to the learning needs of children and to the impact of popular media, societal
and teaching trends, and contemporary information technology.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 482 - Library Programs
and Services to Children
This course examines trends and techniques in planning and delivering public
library services to children and their families. Attention is paid to
the learning needs and recreational interests of children through the various
stages of childhood. Students have opportunities for observation and
practice of storytelling and other program techniques. Emphasis on planning,
developing, funding, publicizing and evaluation of services and programs.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 483 - Young Adult Literature
This course explores the social and psychological needs and attitudes of
adolescents and the literature created especially for this demographic. This
class emphasizes the evaluation, selection and oral presentation of books
and non-print materials for young people between the ages of 12 and 18. Special
attention is paid to the developmental tasks of this age group with an eye
towards literary recommendation. Topics of discussion include the literacy
practices of young adults, popular literature for teen readers, and the use
of specialized selection materials to develop collections in school and public
libraries.
LIS 484 - Literature of Science and Technology
The structure and properties of the literature of science and technology
as they relate to information generation, dissemination, and use. Major reference
sources and bibliographic tools encountered in scientific information work,
including exposure to machine-readable sources. Collection development, scientific
communication patterns, bibliographic instruction, and other topics related
to scientific technical information handling. Practical assignments in scientific
and technical reference, and individual projects. Prerequisite: LIS 407.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 485 - Management of Information Technology
This course is designed for students who expect to become, work closely with
or supervise experts in information technology. IT management concepts are identified
and discussed; including security, working with programmers, R&D, teams,
project management, outsourcing, IT outcomes assessment, and change management.
The course reviews and analyzes the selection criteria for integrated library
systems. It distinguishes and discusses operational activities, such as help
desk support, and research or change activities, such as software development
or enterprise system implementation. It investigates the implications of technology
obsolescence and innovation in the library setting, including evaluation, implementation,
and measures of success. The course requires an understanding of networking
and internet protocols and introduces the following skill sets for IT management: Visio, MS Project, and the administration of an enterprise open source system.
Prerequisite: LIS 488.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 486 - Systems Analysis in Information Services
From a foundation of systems theory, the software- and systems-development life
cycle, intergroup communication, Systems Analysis & Design considers all
aspects of the analysis of information systems documentation (needs analysis,
feasibility study) and improved systems design (logical and physical design
(e.g., technical needs; input and output requirements [forms, screens, reports, &c],
networking, pseudocoding, UML and object-data models, SQL, evaluation and documentation). The
course also covers management, personnel, and resource issues of project management,
such as "build-or-buy" analysis & communicating with user groups. By
casting libraries as small enterprises, students work with a specific library
information systems project, such as a digital library project, to construct
a professional-grade project analysis, in the form of a project portfolio, and
present their analysis to the class. Prerequisite: LIS 488
Course details (PDF)
LIS 490 - International and Comparative Librarianship
Comparison of American and foreign library systems in terms of national
differences in philosophy, objectives, and services. Evaluation and
comparison of collection policies, technical processes, public services,
professional training, management, and facilities. Selected in-depth
area studies. International cooperation and major projects in the information
fields; contributions of international organizations. Guest lectures,
presentations, and individual research projects.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 492 - Contemporary Management Theory
Critical review of the works of the major contributors to contemporary
management thought. Focus on basic theories of effective management,
with emphasis on creating a greater awareness of one's behavior and
its impact on others, and the basic elements needed for working with
others in organizations. Topics include leadership, motivation, needs,
attitudes, perception, influence, and interpersonal relations. Includes
lectures, discussions, exercises, simulations, and applications of
course contents to class members' real-life situations. Prerequisite:
12 semester hours
Course details (PDF)
LIS 493 - Intellectual Freedom and Censorship
This course provides students with in-depth knowledge of intellectual freedom
and related access issues that information professionals cope with in libraries
and information settings. Students learn about the history of censorship practices,
the evolving and sometimes controversial role of librarians/information professionals
and others who promote the philosophy of intellectual freedom, the policies of various
countries and associations regarding intellectual freedom and ethical practice,
freedom of information and privacy legislation, and overall influence of technology
on censorship and access issues.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 495 - Apprenticeship (preK-12) (2 - 3 semester hours)
This is an educational field-based experience at the preK-12 grade level for
students needing a field experience as certification requirement. Students will
have the opportunity to practice school library skills and methods under the
direction of a college supervisor and supervising practitioner. A minimum of
400 clock hours will be arranged. Registration is made by arrangement with the
Director of the SLT program. Pre-requisite: LIS 495 is a capstone experience
which is completed after all pre-practicum (course) work has been completed.
For students who are graduating in a given semester, he/she may concurrently
take remaining course work and an apprenticeship.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 498 - Practicum
(preK-8) (2 - 3 semester hours)
This is an educational field-based experience at the preK-8 grade level for
students needing a practicum as certification requirement. Students will have
the opportunity to practice school library skills and methods under the direction
of a college supervisor and supervising practitioner. A minimum of 100 clock
hours will be arranged. Registration is made by arrangement with the Director
of the SLT program. Pre-requisite: LIS 498 is a capstone experience which is completed after all
pre-practicum (course) work has been completed. For students who are graduating
in a given semester, he/she may concurrently take remaining course work and
a practicum.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 499 - Practicum (7 - 12)
(2 - 3 semester hours)
This is an educational field-based experience at the 7-12 grade level for
students needing a practicum as certification requirement. Students will have
the opportunity to practice school library skills and methods under the direction
of a college supervisor and supervising practitioner. A minimum of 100 clock
hours will be arranged. Registration is made by arrangement with the Director
of the SLT program. Pre-requisite:
LIS 499 is a capstone experience which is completed after all pre-practicum
(course) work has been completed. For students who are graduating in a given
semester, he/she may concurrently take remaining course work and a practicum.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 500 - Independent Study (2 - 3 semester hours)
The independent study program provides an opportunity
for the student with a distinguished academic record, who has achieved degree
candidacy, to pursue an individual topic related to his/her own interests for
use in a substantial paper or project. A faculty member guides and advises the
student in conferences, reviews preliminary drafts, and assigns the final grade.
Academic credit is dependent upon substantial accomplishment at a distinguished
level of quality. Members of the faculty actively encourage publication of those
completed seminar studies that represent useful contributions to professional
literature. The study proposal must be initiated by the student at least eight
weeks before the semester in which it is to be undertaken. The student bears
responsibility for formulating the study, approaching an appropriate faculty
member, securing his/her consent to act as a sponsor, and submitting a full written
statement outlining the study to that sponsor at least four weeks before the
semester opens. Detailed instructions and Independent Study proposal forms are
available at http://my.simmons.edu/gslis/resources/forms/policies.shtml.
M.S. Topics in Library & Information Science
Current Topics - LIS 530
The 530 series of courses allows the faculty the opportunity and flexibility
to develop courses based on current interests and trends in the field.
After a course has been offered several times, the faculty vote on whether
it will be entered into the regular curriculum or cease to be offered. Please
note: some of these courses may be offered only occasionally rather than
on an annual basis.
After being offered twice, LIS 530 courses are typically moved
into the permanent curriculum and given new course numbers. If you are looking
for a particular course and can't find it here, please use our Course
Status page as a guide.
LIS 530J - Information Services for Diverse Users
Given the increasing diversity of information users in the United States,
information professionals need to learn more about specific groups in order
provide appropriate services. This course examines the special needs and
potential contributions of groups that are traditionally underrepresented
in information settings. Through readings, discussion, and guest lectures,
students will explore diversity issues which impact information services
and develop skills for planning, implementing, and evaluating programs for
addressing these issues. Specific diversity issues include race and ethnicity;
gender and sexual orientation; social class; national origin; physical, psychological,
and learning ability; and age. Students will gain experience in addressing
diversity issues in two interrelated projects. The first project will involve
writing a paper on a particular group and its needs in terms of collection
development, programming, or accessibility issues, etc. For the second project,
students will build on the first paper in a service learning project with
an information center of their choice. Examples of service learning projects
include constructing a detailed program or service activity for a specific
group; compiling an annotated bibliography of best current materials and
digital sources for a specific group; implementing a mentoring program for
a specific group; evaluating diversity programs which are already in place;
or writing a staff training proposal. Prerequisite: the prerequisite
for this course has been dropped.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 530M - Competitive Intelligence
Organizations and organizational units increasingly employ competitive
intelligence (CI) to support decision-making, management, and to build and sustain
competitive advantages. As the formal practice of CI has grown in adoption
and sophistication, information professionals are often charged with intelligence-related
responsibilities. This course examines competitive intelligence models, functions,
and practices; the roles of information professionals in CI, and the management
of CI. Discussion and practice topics include: intelligence ethical and legal
considerations; identifying intelligence needs; intelligence project management,
research methods, analysis, production, and dissemination; the uses of intelligence;
intelligence sources and tools; managing the intelligence function; and the
evolution of CI. A working knowledge of print and electronic business information
sources is recommended. Prerequisite: LIS 404 and LIS 407. Please
note: This course was voted back into the curriculum in October 2007 and is
being offered in Spring 2008.
LIS 530Q - Southeast Asian Bibliography
The course content will be wide-ranging and
designed to assist librarians from Southeast Asia in assimilating and
adapting the practices and theories of the U.S. profession to the particular
problems of their own institutions.
LIS 531D - Computer and Network Security
This course offers a thorough introduction to the computer and network security
issues facing individuals and organizations (libraries) in an increasingly hostile
and dangerous digital society. Issues relating to computing security appear
in the news and trade press on a daily basis. Web site defacement, stolen credit
card numbers, denial of service attacks, the effects of viruses and worms, violations
of privacy, and the loss of data integrity seem to be the norm, rather than
the exception. The nation's interest in cyber security, as part of our national
defense, has obviously heightened in the past several years. Students will learn
who the attackers are, what type of attacks they launch, defenses from attack,
and how to recover if an attack is successful. In addition to learning important
technologies, such as authentication protocols, access protocols, firewalls,
anti-malware technology, server and client hardening techniques, and cryptographic
systems, students will learn the importance of viewing security as a business
problem including how to assess risk, create appropriate security policies,
and manage the security function. Prerequisite: LIS 488 or permission of
the instructor.
LIS 531E - Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
Introduction to a wide range of issues related to the
design, evaluation, and implementation of interactive computing systems.
Examines the relationship between people and computers/computer-mediated
information and the impact of good and bad user interfaces. Discussion
of methods of understanding the diversity of users and their tasks. Discussion
and practice in developing user interface prototypes and performing usability
testing. Topics of lectures and discussion also cover human cognitive
and sensory factors, cost-benefit tradeoffs in design, the importance
of visual design, typography, and icon design, and accessibility considerations
in the design of user interfaces. Individual and group projects. Please note:
This is a new course being offered beginning in the 2005-2006 academic year.
Prerequisite: LIS 488
Course details (PDF)
LIS 531F - XML - eXtensible Markup Language
Please see LIS 469.
LIS 531G - Web Development and Information Architecture
Please see LIS 467.
LIS 531H - Information Retrieval
Please see LIS 466.
LIS 531I - Research for Generating Knowledge and Organizational Improvement
Students apply the principles of social research as applied to generate
new knowledge and examine contemporary problems that information organizations
encounter. They identify and investigate a researchable problem relevant
to their concentration. They develop and execute a research proposal. All
projects must secure the approval of the Simmons College Internal Review
Board. Please note: this is a new course being offered beginning in
the 2005-2006 academic year. Prerequisite: LIS 403
Course details (PDF)
LIS 531J - Managing Spatial Information
This course will cover the principles and fundamentals of spatial information
librarianship; focusing on user communities, acquisitions, equipment, cataloging
and metadata, GIS, concepts and trends in management, organization, and
use of spatial data collections; including maps, aerial photography, digital
data as tables, images and vectors. Emphasis is on the major types, characteristics,
selection, acquisition, and procedures of American and foreign maps. Overview
of geographic information systems as the primary means to enable the spatial
visualization and modeling of government produced and commercially distributed
digital data.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 531K - Archiving and Preserving Digital Media
Please see LIS 444.
LIS 531L - Library Programs and Services for Young Adults
Please see LIS 412.
LIS 531M - Descriptive Cataloging
This course addresses the theories, principles, and practices of bibliographic
description. It covers the application of national standards to the creation
of bibliographic records and to the construction of catalogs in libraries and
other information environments. It teaches the fundamental concepts of descriptive
cataloging including: the elements of bibliographic description, the choice
of descriptive detail, the description of print and non-print resources, the
choice of primary and secondary access points, the creation of personal, corporate,
and geographic name headings as well as uniform and series titles, the principles
and practices of authority work, and the application of the MARC21 and other
encoding standards. The course also includes examinations of current trends
and future directions of descriptive cataloging.
May include readings, discussions, presentations, exams, and written exercises. Pre-requisite:
LIS 415.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 531N - Archives for Librarians
This course is designed to introduce the basic concepts of
archival theory and practice to non-archivists who are entering the information
profession, and to provide a bridge between archival and library practice. Through
special collections, local history collections and web-based exhibits, traditional
archival concerns, particularly in areas such as arrangement, description,
authenticity, context and preservation are becoming issues of concerns in the
wider information arena. Archives and archival issues are increasingly
integrated into library and information activities, archives often exist within
libraries, and librarians may find themselves responsible for archival collections.
The course will present a general overview of the archival profession in the
United States, introduce basic concepts of archival theory and practice as
well as current issues in archives management, acquaint students with the professional
literature and examine the differences and similarities of the archival and
library professions particularly as they relate to the current information
environment. Pre-requisite:
None. Please note: This is a new course voted into the curriculum
in November 2006 and is being offered beginning in the 2007-2008
academic year.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 531O - Rare Book and Special Collections
Librarianship
With the growth of the Internet and the proliferation of electronic
applications in librarianship, the role of the Special Collections and Rare
Book library has not gotten simpler. In fact, the new technology has added
a layer of complexity to the life of the librarian, while many operations remain
unchanged. Often, Special Collections/Rare Books Departments are like a library
in microcosm, for many of these departments do all of what the parent institution
does, in both technical and public services. On top of this, many administrators
look to the Rare Books Department and use the department’s facilities
and holdings for public relations and other fund-raising activities. This course
is designed as a practical introduction to Rare Book and Special Collections
Librarianship, to cover for the neophyte as well as the experienced librarian
the many issues of these departments’ responsibilities. Pre-requisite:
None. Please note: This is a new course
voted into the curriculum in December 2006 and will be offered beginning in
Spring 2008.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 531P - Foundations of Library and Information
Science
This course is an introduction to the field of library and
information science, exploring information professions, services, and institutions,
as well as addressing fundamental concepts and theories of information. Topics
which will be the subject of discussion and study include settings in which
an information professional might work (libraries, information centers, archives,
and the information industries), the history of the information professions,
the organizational structures of information institutions, the information
needs of users and their information-seeking behavior, and information concepts,
theories, and practices. The class will engage with current issues and trends
affecting the information professions in today's society. Assignments may include
presentations, posters, papers, case studies, examinations, and written exercises. Please
note: This is a new course voted into the curriculum in October 2007 and will
be offered during the 2008-2009 academic year.
Doctoral Courses
LIS 600 - Supervised Study (1 semester hour for Ph.D. students; 2 semester hours
for D.A. students)
Open only to students in the doctoral program. Required of all such students
(1) not in residence in any regular semester in order to maintain matriculation,
(2) not taking a course for credit during the fall or spring semester, and
(3) working on their concept paper, proposal, or their field research project.
Supervised study may not be applied toward academic credit requirements for
the doctoral degree.
LIS 601 - Independent Study for Doctoral Students
Independent Study offers an opportunity for the doctoral student to pursue
individual study related to aspects of management not covered in detail in
the regular course offerings. Independent Study may be a reading course,
a group investigation of a topic of mutual interest, or a directed research
project. An end result will be an oral presentation to the faculty supervisor
and the Committee on Doctoral Studies, as well as a possible paper of publishable
quality.
LIS 620 - History, Concepts, and Research Opportunities
LIS 620 serves as a foundation and a cohort-building
course. The course takes an international perspective in exploring historical
developments, current issues, and research activities of interest to library
and information science, archival studies, and related information fields.
It reviews the history and major developments in LIS education and considers
the role of scholarship in higher education. It introduces key topics related
to the research process, including problem identification, funding opportunities,
the communication of findings, use of human subjects, research ethics, and
research misconduct. Assignments include papers, presentations, leading classroom
discussions, and completion of the Simmons College Institutional Review Board
"Investigator 101" module. This is the required first course
for PhD students.
LIS 621 - Conducting Research
This course addresses the theories, principles, and practices of social science
research. It examines reflective inquiry (including the development of the
problem statement, literature review, theoretical framework, logical structure,
research objectives, and questions/hypotheses) and research design, data collection
methods, and data analysis. The course also covers generalizability, reliability
and validity, and the report and presentation of research results. Methods
in quantitative and qualitative data analysis are introduced. Students are
able to develop their own research proposals and select appropriate methods
based on specific research questions. The course builds on themes and research
concepts introduced in LIS 620: History, Concepts and
Research Opportunities.
The course requirement might include assignments, quizzes, research projects,
and presentation of the research results. Pre-req: LIS 620.
LIS 666 - Advanced Problems in School Media
Center Administration
Application of management theory to the school library media program at
the system/ district level. Emphasis on system-wide coordination, principles,
and methods of supervision; program development and implementation; and newer
trends. A field-based component of 75 clock hours in this course is required. Prerequisite:
LIS 406 or equivalent.
LIS 667 - Internship S/D (preK-12)
An educational experience consisting of 150 clock hours in actual service in
a public school system in which the candidate acquires practical supervisory
experience under the direction of a local employer. Supervision and evaluation
are the responsibilities of the Director of the SLTP program. Registration
is arranged with the Director of the SLTP program for the Supervisor/Director
certificate. A student who intends to become certified as a Supervisor/ Director
is required to take the appropriate field work components in LIS 667-669.
LIS 668 - Practicum S/D (preK-12)
An educational field-based experience for students needing a practicum as Supervisor/
Director certification requirement. Students will have the opportunity to
practice supervisory skills and media methods under the direction of a faculty
member and cooperating practitioner. A minimum of 75 clock hours will be
arranged. Registration is arranged with the Director of the SLTP program.
A student who intends to become certified as a Supervisor/Director is required
to take the appropriate field work components in LIS 667-669.
LIS 669 - Clinical Experience S/D (preK-12)
An educational field-based experience for students needing a clinical experience per the Supervisor/Director certification requirement. This experience must be in the role as Supervisor/Director at the preK-12 level. Students must demonstrate the ability to integrate content
area knowledge with pedagogical theory and practice. A minimum of 400 clock hours or one full semester is required. A student who intends to become certified as a Supervisor/Director is required to take the appropriate field work components in LIS 667-669.
LIS 671 - Managerial Leadership for Library and
Information Services
This course reviews the major contributions to contemporary managerial leadership
research, theory, and practice, including such areas as strategic planning,
change management, and team building. It also places emphasis on a greater
awareness of one's behavior, its impact on others, and the elements needed
to influence people to accomplish desired goals in information organizations.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 672 - Research for Managerial Leadership for
Library and Information Services
Research for managerial leadership is positioned within the larger context
of social science research. The course examines the research process from conceptualization
of a researchable problem, through the reflective inquiry process, to completion
(including review of the publication process). The need for research in library
and information science is discussed, as well as trends and issues, types of
research studies, problem identification, and the set up and reporting activities
of a research study.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 675 - Evaluation of Library and Information
Services
The course applies the principles of evaluation research to contemporary
problems related to managerial leadership in the information professions. Building
on the Research
for Managerial Leadership for Library and Information Science course,
it covers the fundamentals of identifying and investigating problems
relevant to continuous quality improvement and communicating the results to
decision makers. It also provides an introduction to statistics and accountability.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 676 - Leadership in Financial Management for
Library and Information Services
This course provides an overview of financial management for libraries, information-related
organizations, and projects within the context of identified leadership values.
The topics of planning, implementing and reporting on budgets, financial management
measures, internal and external communications, partnering, stewardship, and
integrity are all issues that are discussed relative to the desired outcomes
of institutional accountability, credibility, and trust.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 677 - Human Resources Management for Library
and Information Services
This course is a comprehensive examination of the various functions and responsibilities
of human resource management. This course will cover
human resources management (HRM) as it relates to strategic planning for human
resources development; work design; recruitment, selection and retention of
staff; compensation and position classification; performance planning and assessment;
labor relations; motivating and leading a diverse workforce; and staff and
organization development. The course also examines the interactions among managers,
administrators, staff, and human resource management specialists.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 678 - Managing and Leading Library and Information
Services in a Political Environment
This course covers the skills necessary for interacting with the larger communities in which libraries and
information centers operate (academic institutions, municipalities, corporations). It will specifically
address advocacy and cooperation within complex, multi-stakeholder power structures as encountered when
working with administrators, political leaders, and community groups (e.g., citizens, faculty, and students).
The effect of political contexts on planning activities will also be covered.
Course details (PDF)
LIS 680 - Independent Inquiry
Students execute two managerial leadership research studies. Activity may
begin upon completion of LIS 672 (Research for Managerial
Leadership for Library and Information Services)
and concurrently or subsequent to LIS 675 ( Statistics
for Evaluation of Library and Information Services ). The Independent Inquiry
research projects will be the execution of the research proposals developed
in LIS 672 (becomes 680a research study) and LIS 675 (becomes 680b research
study). This learning activity will have a flexible time frame, but it must
be completed as a prerequisite to the capstone course, Issues in Leading
Transformation in Library and Information Services. Program faculty will
guide students in developing an appropriate schedule for completion of both
studies. Students will produce two research papers of publishable quality.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 688 - Fundraising and Entrepreneurial Strategies
for Library and Information Services
Resource development, that is the identification and successful recruitment
of new sources of funds to advance the library and information services program,
is an essential aspect of leadership and strategic progress. This course addresses
two aspects of resource development: fundraising and entrepreneurial strategies.
The conditions and trends in the environment of libraries and information services
which drive resource development will be identified. The cultural, organizational,
and programmatic elements of successful library fundraising programs will be
reviewed and debated, with a particular focus on the role of the library leader.
The function of innovation, risk-taking, competition and business planning
in enabling and promoting entrepreneurial thinking and action in library and
information services will be discussed, with an emphasis on income-generating
projects.
Course
details (PDF)
LIS 699 - Dissertation/Supervised Field Research
Open only to doctoral students who
have completed 32 semester hours and have successfully passed the comprehensive
examination. Note: while working on the dissertation or field research project,
students are enrolled in LIS 600 in the fall and spring semesters. The semester
in which the study is completed, the student enrolls in LIS 699.
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