LIS-406 — Mgmnt of School Lib Programs
This course examines the philosophy and management of school library programs including the roles of the school library teacher and of the pre-K-12 school library program through the study of teaching and learning, library facility design, integration of instructional technology, electronic access, differentiation of instruction, literacy, 21st Century information skills, service to English Language Learners, access, equity, ethical issues, budget, advocacy, strategic planning, and program evaluation. Field-based course work is also required.
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.
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LIS-409 — Lit of Social Sci
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.
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LIS-411 — Info 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.
LIS-412 — Lib. Prgrms Svcs /Young Adults
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, educational, 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 promotion, funding, and evaluation of library programs and services for teenagers.
LIS-413 — Lit of 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.
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LIS-414 — Org/Mgt of Corporate Lib
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.
LIS-417 — Subj. Catalog & Class.
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; classification theory; 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.
LIS-418 — Technical Services
Organization, administration, and functions of technical services, including selection, acquisition, and management of monographic, cataloging, 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 discussion on current topics, guest lectures, field trips, papers, and other individual projects.
LIS-419 — Indexing & Thesaurus Const.
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.
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LIS-420 — Mod Pub & Librnshp
The publishing industry and its relation to the library profession. History and modern processes of publication including: editing, design, selection, typography, composition, printing processes, illustrations, binding, marketing, methods of distribution, and sales outlets. Organization and current issues of the publishing industry; problems in the acquisition of materials; various aspects of copyright; and specialized publishing. Role and future of print in relation to other communication media. Course includes field trips, guest lectures, media presentations, and individual research papers. (Please note: this course is one of several still under review by the faculty. Please be aware that the course content may be changed or, in some cases, the course may not be offered again.
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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.
LIS-422 — Literacy & Serv. to Und. Pop.
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.
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.
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 534)
LIS-426 — Curriculum and the SLT
This course provides a close examination of the organization, structure, and content of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and of the Common Core. Students will identify elements of the Frameworks that promote student achievement through library activities, projects, and instruction. The central role of curriculum in teaching and learning will be discussed. Emphasis will be on lesson and unit planning, organizing, implementing, and assessing library activities and student projects that support and enhance the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and Common Core topics and bridge to AASL Standards for the 21st-Century Learner, and that result in student achievement. Some key topics will be cross-disciplinary learning, inquiry-based learning, differentiation, literacy, research skills, assessment, and collaboration with classroom and subject area teachers, and developing the role of the school library teacher as a reflective practitioner.
LIS-428 — U.S. Govt 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.
LIS-430 — Business Info Sources & Serv.
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.
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LIS-431 — Instr. Strategies for the SLT
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. It is structured to enable the future library teacher to understand his/her role and responsibilities as a teacher and instructional partner with classroom/subject area teachers with whom he/she will collaborate. Students prepare lessons, teach, participate in peer reviews, and begin to develop as reflective practitioners.
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.
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.
LIS-435 — Music Librarianship
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.
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.
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LIS-438 — Intro Archival Methods & Srvs
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.
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LIS-439 — Preservation Mgmt.
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. Team taught with members of the Northeast Document Conservation Center staff.
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. (Required course for Archives Management Concentration.
Prerequisite: LIS 415 and LIS 438)
LIS-441 — Appraisal of Arch & Manuscript
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
LIS-442 — Establish Arch & Manuscript
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)
LIS-443 — Archives, History and Coll Mem
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)
LIS-444 — Arch. & Pres. Dig. Media
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 pre-requisite.
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)
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.
LIS-450 — Org./Mgmt. 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.
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)
LIS-453 — Coll Development & Mgmt
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)
LIS-454 — Digital Info. Services & Prov.
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)
LIS-456 — Managing Rec. in Elec. Envi.
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. management setting. Required course for Archives Management Concentration. Prerequisite: LIS 415 for all students and LIS-438 is suggested for Archives Concentrators.
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. (Please note: the new content in this course incorporates the former LIS 520Y - Introduction to Information Design as well as the content from the former iteration of the course.
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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))
LIS-460 — Technology and the SLT
This course will prepare the school library teacher to successfully integrate new and emerging technologies into the school library program, technology lab, and classroom. Technologies studied will be appropriate for integration into all areas of the school's curriculum. Web-based and mobile resources and tools are used extensively throughout the course and are directly tied to current topics in successful school library management and practice. Hands-on learning and discussion of issues that could arise as a part of technology integration with pre-K - 12 students are foundational elements of the course. The role the school library teacher plays in the professional development of teachers in his/her school as a resource person, leader in technology instruction, facilitator, collaborator, and instructor will be discussed throughout the course.
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)
LIS-465 — Knowledge Management
This course will cover the entire knowledge management cycle - from knowledge capture and codification, to sharing and communities of practice, transfer and application. It will also include major theories and models in knowledge management. Students will learn to apply the case study research design in knowledge management, and look at cases discussing the role of knowledge management in organizational improvement. Contemporary knowledge management software (including knowledge creation and sharing in social networking websites) will be covered. Finally, the course will explore knowledge management not just from the organizational perspective, but also from the individual perspective.
LIS-466 — Information Retrieval
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
LIS-467 — Web Develop & Info. Arch
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.
LIS-469 — XML- eXtensible Markup Lang.
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.
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.
LIS-471 — Photographic Archives
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)
LIS-473 — Fiscal Management
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.
LIS-475 — Org/Info 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.
LIS-481 — Child Literature & Media
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.
LIS-482 — Lib.Prg. & Serv. for 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.
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. Please note: some of the content formerly included in this course has been moved to the new course http://my.simmons.edu/gslis/courses/descriptions/m s-topics.shtml#LIS531L LIS 531L: Library Programs and Services for Young Adults.
LIS-484 — Sci/Tech Literature
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)
LIS-486 — Systems Analysis in Info. Serv
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
LIS-490 — Intl. & Comparative Libnship
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.
LIS-493 — Intellectual Freedom
This course provides 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.
LIS-495 — Pract. Equiv. Exp. (preK-12)
The Practicum Equivalent Experience provides students with the opportunity to apply in a school setting the skills and knowledge that he/she has learned throughout the School Library Teacher Program. If a student is currently working in a school library as 'the teacher of record,' he/she can choose to substitute one of the practica with a Practicum Equivalent Experience. The Practicum Equivalent Experience allows the student to receive credit for work experience gained at the school in which he/she is employed. The Practicum Equivalent Experience is done under the direction of a college supervisor and supervising practitioner. The minimum time requirement for a Practicum Equivalent Experience is 300 clock hours. Registration is made by arrangement with the Director of the School Library Teacher Program. Pre-requisite: LIS 495 is a capstone experience which is completed after all pre-practicum course work has been completed.
LIS-498 — Practicum (PreK-8)
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.
LIS-499 — Practicum (7-12)
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.
LIS-500 — Independent Study
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. Approval of the Assistant Dean of the Graduate School of Library and Information Science must be secured at least ten days before the semester begins. Detailed instructions and Independent Study proposal forms are available from the Admissions Office. Please note: this course is one of several still under review by the faculty. Please be aware that the course content may be changed.