LBSC 100: Research Methods and Information Retrieval, Section 1
Thursday 1:50-2:40 pm
Instructor: Laura Neal (email: lneal@shepherd.edu)
Syllabus for Spring 2009
Purpose of Course:
LBSC 100 is a 1-credit course for students who desire a general introduction to research and information
retrieval, and the use of library materials and resources.
LBSC 100 is based on a set of standards called "Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education." These standards state that an Information Literate individual is able to:
- Determine the extent of information needed
- Access the needed information effectively and efficiently
- Evaluate information and its sources critically
- Incorporate selected information into one’s knowledge base
- Use information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose
- Understand the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information, and access and use information ethically and legally
Throughout the semester we will use lectures, readings, in-class discussions, hands-on activities, and projects to meet these standards.
Course Goals:
- Students will understand the Information Literacy model and learn specific skills such as citing information sources,
evaluating information, and utilizing Library online and hardcopy resources
- Students will use technology effectively to retrieve information, contribute to class discussions, create presentations and reports, etc.
Grading: (500 points possible)
- Written responses to required class readings (due throughout the semester) - 100 points.
- Searchpath tutorials (due January 29th) - 60 points
- Subject specific encyclopedias (due Feb 12) - 20 points
- Popular and Scholarly articles (due Feb 26) - 20 points
- Midterm Exam - (March 5) - 100 points
- Presentation on an Intellectual Property or Preservation issue (due April 30) - 100 points
- Final Exam - Reflection Questions and Essay on Information Literacy - 100 points
Grading Scale:
- 90%-100% A
- 80%-89% B
- 70%-79% C
- 60%-69% D
- Below 60% F
Attendance:
Attendance is important. A student who misses a class is responsible for all material covered and all announcements made
during that class. Assignments will not be accepted after the date on which they are due, unless the student has made prior
arrangements with the instructor to adjust due dates.
Created by Laura Neal - comments to: lneal@shepherd.edu
Last updated: January 14, 2009