LS65A—Information Technology I

Course Outline

(3 credits)
This course provides an introduction to information technology and its relationship to libraries information units. The foundations of automated information management and applications of data processing to library operations are discussed.

Course Objectives

• To enable understanding of the concepts of the application of information technology in libraries and other information units.
• To develop expertise in the use of relevant information technology applications.

Learning Outcomes

As a result of the course, students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate basic competency in a range of computer-based applications commonly used in library and information systems, including using computer operating system features, electronic mail, electronic discussion groups, weblogs, spreadsheets, selected online catalogues and databases, and presentation packages.
2. Prepare a simple World Wide Web page using application software and basic HTML commands.
3. Discuss the characteristics, use, limitations, and management implications of the major applications of information technology to library and information work.
4. Discuss key issues in systems maintenance for information management, including system security.
5. Identify trends in the ICT industry that will make a significant impact on library and information work, and be able to elucidate relevant opinions to colleagues.

Instruction

One hour lectures/seminars per week and two hours lab sessions per week

Evaluation

Course work consisting of:
1. An in-course test 20%.

Lab exercises and Assignments

1. Evaluation of blogs to be done online 5%
2. The function of operating systems – essay using features of MS Word 5%
3. PowerPoint Presentation on how the Internet functions – in-class presentation. 5%
4. Website portfolio in-class presentation. Portfolio and in-class presentation 15%

2. One three (3) hour final examination counting for 50% of the final mark.