Syllabus
Course Description:
This course is an introduction to academic research and the effective use of the library,, using an academic library as a laboratory setting for hands-on experience in the scholarly communication process. The course will provide instruction in the access, evaluation, and utilization of disciplinary literature. Traditional library research techniques will be covered, with an emphasis on modern methods of information retrieval using online capabilities.
Research can be a daunting task for many students. The increasing availability of research resources has allowed for greater coverage of more diverse research topics. However, this same volume of materials tends to increase user confusion. Through a systematic and well-developed search strategy, research can be efficient, effective, and approached in a positive manner. This course will introduce students to basic research methods utilizing paper and electronic resources. To develop and refine research techniques requires practice. Therefore, the class will include a great deal of hands-on experience.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the semester, an information literate UWG student will be able to:
1. Analyze and articulate the information need and identify appropriate sources of information to meet that need.
2. Understand the intellectual organization of information sources and apply that understanding in accessing information.
3. Effectively and efficiently access, evaluate, select and use needed information.
4. Demonstrate and understanding of the economic, legal and social issues surrounding the use of information.
5. Identify functional areas of a library (both physical and virtual) and demonstrate the relationship to the research process.
6. Create a research product that incorporates appropriate information and research methodology.
Required Text:
George, Mary W. The Elements of Library Research. Princeton:
Grades: The final grade will be based on the following scale:
- 90 – 100 A
- 80 – 89 B
- 70 – 79 C
- 60 – 69 D
- 0 – 59 F
Components of the Final Grade:
- Worksheets
- Application Assignments
- Midterm Exam
- Semester Project
- Final Exam
Course Outline:
Lesson 1--Introduction to Libraries
Lesson 2--Research Process
Lesson 3--Structure of Literature
Lesson 4--Documentation
Lesson 5--Access Tools
Lesson 6--Encyclopedias
Lesson 7--Books
Lesson 8--Introduction to Periodicals
Lesson 9--Newspapers
Lesson 10--Magazines
Lesson 11--Scholarly Journals
Lesson 12--Government Publications
Lesson 13--Internet
Lesson 14--Other Sources
Academic Honesty:
Students are expected to adhere to the highest standards of academic honesty. If plagiarism or another act of academic dishonesty occurs, it will be dealt with in accordance with the academic misconduct policies in the undergraduate catalog. The UWG Catalog (Student Handbook) defines academic dishonesty is in Section 2.00 of the Conduct Code.
Students in Wheelchairs:
Students in wheelchairs enrolled in the face-to-face sections of LIBR1101 may use the staff elevator located in Circulation to gain access to the classroom. These students should arrive prior to the beginning of the class period and use the door leading to Technical Services for elevator access. Students in wheelchairs should also contact the Student Development Office prior to the beginning of the semester. The Student Development Office will advise the Head of Instructional Services that this policy must be effected for the LIBR1101 class.
Instruction Librarians
Michael Aldrich
Office 114
maldrich@westga.edu
678-839-6357
Chris Carroll
Circulation Desk
ccarroll@westga.edu
678-839-6503
Jean Cook
Office 212
jcook@westga.edu
678-839-6356
Diane Fulkerson
Office 216
dfulkers@westga.edu
678-839-6362
Shirley Lankford
Office 218
slankfor@westga.edu
678-839-6358
Mary Jane Rootes
Office 116
mrootes@westga.edu
678-839-6363
Andrea Stanfield
Office 213
astanfie@westga.edu
678-839-5503
Dean Sullivan
Office 113
dsulliva@westga.edu
678-839-6359
Description
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