Graduate Courses

Information is the foundation upon which the modern world is built; information and the systems to deliver that information are the basis of communication technology, social interactions, economic growth, scientific/academic research, business, art, and music. In this course, students will learn about the fundamentals of information - how it is created, how it is managed, and how it is used. Students will gain an understanding of basic information theory and how that theory can be applied to different levels: the individual, and organization, cultures, and society. Prerequisite: This is the required first course for all MSIM students.

Information architecture is the art and science of organizing, structuring, and labeling components in information systems to provide meaningful experiences for users. In this course, students will explore issues of data and information organization and structure, system navigation, interaction design, search and query issues, and user interface. Students will learn about the interdependent nature of users, content, and context. Students will analyze existing systems as well as develop information architectures for new applications. Prerequisite: IM 701 (or concurrent enrollment) 

How information is represented can significantly impact how information is accessed and disseminated; whether data is structured or unstructured, controlled by vocabularies or free-form, numbers or text, can determine how it is collected, processed, and stored. In this course, students will learn about a variety of internal and external data structures, how data is transmitted between systems, and the impact of representation on applications and users. Prerequisite: IM 701

Data analytics is the process of examining data in order to draw conclusions about that information. Data analytics is used in a variety of organizations in order to make better decisions, to better serve customers, to find information gaps, and to develop new and/or improved processes, products, or ideas. In this course, students will be introduced to a variety of data analysis tools and models. Students will have hands-on experience extracting and processing data to solve real problems. Prerequisites: IM 701 and IM 704 or requisite skill set.

Listed also as LIS 750. Prerequisite(s):IM 701

Listed also as LIS 751. Prerequisite: IM 701

Listed also as LIS 755. Prerequisite: IM 701

Digital Asset Management is a new and growing profession; from manufacturing and retail to healthcare, education, and cultural heritage, organizations struggle to manage their digital assets. In this course, students will explore various technologies and workflows to managing digital contents throughout an asset’s lifecycle including planning, policy development, metadata and taxonomies, branding issues, copyright, and metrics. Also listed as LIS 757.

Human Computer Interaction (HCI) is the study of computer interface designs and their impacts on the humans who use those systems. In this course, students will learn about the major theories of HCI and how to apply those theories to critique systems, to improve systems, and to design useful and user centered systems. Prerequisite: IM 701

Ensuring that data and information are secure is a complex process. In this introductory course, students will learn about the various components that encompass information security including cyber security threats, counter-attack, and defense services. Students will explore the multiple levels of security in a variety of technologies and applications spaces. Prerequisite: IM 701

Most organizations exist in a network environment in which data is collected, maintained and shared. This courses focuses on the information and data security policy and strategy issues facing various organizations including government/public, private, business, non-profit, education, health, and others. This course will explore pro-active defense and "ethical hacking" within the contexts of specific organizations. Prerequisite: IM 701

Health informatics is the application of technology to healthcare delivery, population and public health, community-based clinical research, and the potential for big data and analytics to transform the field. Within a framework of theory and practice, students will explore the critical issues and challenges within the field including interoperability, standardization, safety, and risks associated with the implementation of the electronic health record for individual patients as well as collective big data that can be used for population health management. 

Data privacy law in the US is piecemeal; a number of different laws regulate the dissemination of information to third parties. Some laws govern information about children, some about health information, some about financial records, some about personally identifying information. These laws are enacted in organizational policies and in eventually encoded in software. This course will examine the legal, social, and policy issues surrounding information privacy. Prerequisite: IM 701

Organizations need to secure their information from persistent, global threats. Effective information security at the organizational level requires participation, planning, and practice. It is an ongoing effort that requires management and staff to work together. This course will provide students with the skills and knowledge to facilitate innovative cybersecurity governance, leadership, and management to develop information security strategies that support the organizational goals and objectives, that are aligned with applicable legal and regulatory requirements, that are ethical and sustainable, and that are implemented through policies and internal controls by providing oversight for risks mitigation.

Listed also as LIS 791. Prerequisite: IM 701

Supervised student fieldwork experience in an approved information center under the direction of an SOIS faculty member. In addition, a course research report or project will be required. The information center supervisor, the faculty member, and the student meet periodically to review the student’s progress. Students have an option for either 1.5 or 3 credit hours; the 1.5 credit hour Practicum requires 60 hours work at the practicum site during the semester. The three-credit hour Practicum requires 120 hours work onsite (approximately 10 hours per week for 12 weeks). Prerequisites: Student must have completed 18 semester hours, including IM 701, IM 703, IM 704, and IM 720; GPA of 3.3 or higher.

Directed and supervised projects of independent study. Limited to students having a grade point average of 3.3 or above who have a sufficient background to work independently. Consent of the instructor is required before registration. No student may take more than two independent studies. Prerequisites: Completion of eight courses, including IM 701, IM 703, IM 704, and IM 720.

Data mining is the theory and practice of discovering structure, patterns, trends, and relationships in complex data sets in order to transform raw data into useful information and actionable knowledge. Data mining is a multi-disciplinary methodology that includes statistics, machine learning, and information management. Data mining is widely used by organizations to solve problems, mitigate risks, and improve products and services. This course will cover the major concepts in data mining, information extraction, pattern classification, and prediction modeling. Students will work with various tools, techniques, and processes for both unstructured and semi-structured data gaining hands-on, practical experience in solving problems with real-world data.  Prerequisites: IM 704 and IM 720 or other experience programming in Python and approval by the instructor.

Network analysis is an interdisciplinary methodology with a set of integrated techniques to determine the relationships between nodes (entities, actors, or agents) and to analyze the structures that emerge from the patterns of these relations. Network analysis is used in a wide variety of organizations to solve an equally wide range of problems such as computer networks, logistics, business workflows and productivity optimization processes, biomedical product development, public health, contagion modeling, as well as the obvious social media platforms. Students will learn the fundamental concepts, methods and tools of network analysis and gain practical skills in collecting, analyzing and visualizing network data.  Prerequisites: IM 704 and IM 720 or other experience programming in Python and approval by the instructor.

The submission of an e-Portfolio during the last semester of study is required of students seeking the master of science in information management degree. The assignment is graded as pass/fail and the prospective graduate must satisfactorily meet the requirement. Students must submit an application for graduation with the Office of the Registrar to prompt individual registration in this course. Non-Credit. Prerequisite: Application for graduation on file.

This seminar course will cover the broad topic of data management theory and research. Readings on both the theory and practice of data management research will be explored. During this course, students will become familiar with classic data information topics such as database management systems, information security, data mining, as well as emerging data management theories.

Listed also as LIS 967.

Covers core values and ethics central to the library and information professions, including intellectual property, privacy, access, confidentiality of records, codes of ethics, intellectual freedom, and censorship. Includes an analysis and comparison of social, cultural, economic and political factors that influence access to information and the development and provision of information services. Examines the role, function, and influence of information policies at the organization, local, national, and international levels and their impact on information flow and core professional values. Considers the library and information professions and practice within a diverse and global context. This is the recommended first course for all SOIS students. Offered in fall, spring, and summer.

Provides an introductory overview of information behaviors and information needs, seeking, retrieval, evaluation, use, and sharing in relation to professional practice. Investigates the application reference interview and research consultation skills to the design and delivery of information services and resources. Considers learning theories and principles in relation to information literacy and fluency. Examines instructional approaches and strategies for formal and informal learning contexts, different information settings, and virtual environments. Pre- or co-requisite: LIS 701

Provides an overview of principles, methods, and systems in the organization of materials and information in a variety of library and related settings. Introduces at a basic level the use and interpretation of Resource Description & Access (RDA), subject headings (Library of Congress Subject Headings), classification (Dewey Decimal Classification & Library of Congress Classification), authority control, and Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC21). Introduces foundational concepts of knowledge representation and taxonomies. Offered in fall, spring, and summer. Pre- or co-requisite: LIS 701

Introduces leadership theories and practice to promote effective interpersonal, small group, and organizational communication in library and information settings. Covers communicating a leadership stance, using effective leadership, marketing, and communication management techniques and practices, and applying design and systems thinking to create and implement information services, tools, and resources. Examines marketing principles and collaborative leadership approaches to promote services and collections and to advance organizational goals. Discusses advocacy for libraries, archives, and information agencies. Covers project management techniques. Pre- or co-requisite: LIS 701

Introduces research concepts, principles of research design, measurement, and qualitative and elementary quantitative data collection and analysis techniques commonly employed in library and information settings. Covers methods and approaches for assessing library and information services, programs, and resources with the goal of demonstrating value to the users and constituent groups served by the organization. Emphasizes designing, planning and managing research and assessment projects. Considers strategies to use research and assessment findings and to communicate results. Prerequisite: LIS 701

An overview of information technology infrastructures and the underlying concepts embodied in databases, operating systems, hardware, and software applications. Covers website creation, network technologies, webhosting, and file transfer protocol (FTP). Develops competencies for advanced Internet-based searching, application of business intelligence software (e.g., MS-Excel), and creation of data visualizations. Pre- or co-requisite: LIS 701

This course provides an overview of the early history of the written word, focusing on the use of texts from antiquity up to the age of the printing press. Site visits to local repositories provide hands-on experience with papyri, clay tablets, parchment, vellum, and rare books. Readings and discussions will explore what is meant by the term "text" in order to deeply investigate the methodologies of book history and textual criticism. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Introduces students to the concepts and fundamentals of preservation and conservation of library and archival records and materials. Students learn about the environmental and structural causes and control of deterioration, conservation and repair, storage and reformatting, disaster preparedness and risk management, binding, and security. Students are also introduced to strategies and best practices for preservation planning and management of preservation programs and resources. Prerequisite: LIS 701

The art of storytelling is perfected through presentation and self-evaluation. Students will develop their own styles and methods of presentation. Readings in folk literature as well as more contemporary and classical sources are required. Students will present stories regularly in class or elsewhere, plan storytelling programs and learn to evaluate and provide critiques of storytelling. Prerequisite: LIS 701 or permission of instructor

This course focuses on the history and development of children's literature in Western Europe (primarily Great Britain) and the United States from the Middle Ages to the end of the twentieth century. Texts are selected to represent different historical periods as well as a range of authors and illustrators with an emphasis on works of historical significance. Cultural and social contexts in which these works were created, distributed, and read as well as the impact of technological changes on the development of children's literature will be considered. Examination of literary genres across decades will include a discussion of the changing concepts of childhood and multiculturalism, and historical controversies and challenges. Coursework includes reading, discussion, written assignments, and presentations. Prerequisite: LIS 701

In depth consideration of theory, research, technology, and practice of supporting early literacy development in children birth to six. Topics covered include: research in pre-literacy language acquisition and brain development; picture book evaluation, selection and sharing specific to early literacy; design of programs for young children (storytime) and the adults who support them (workshops) to enrich early literacy skills; creation and use of interstitial, book-expanding activities and elements (fingerplays, songs, rhymes, flannel board stories, etc.); exploration of the philosophical underpinnings of literature sharing with young children and its purpose and value. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Selection, evaluation and use of media for children in elementary and middle schools and public libraries. Materials in curricular areas are studied along with an examination of the relationships of materials to developmental characteristics and individual differences of the child, to curriculum and recreation, to the exceptional child, and to a multicultural society. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Selection, evaluation and use of media for young adults in middle and secondary schools and public libraries. Materials in curricular areas are studied along with an examination of the relationships of materials to developmental characteristics and individual differences of young adults in contemporary society, to curriculum and recreation, to the exceptional young adult and to a multicultural society. 
Prerequisite: LIS 701

Introduction to the planning, promotion, implementation and evaluation of literature-sharing services for children and young adults in school and public libraries. Emphasis is placed on techniques, such as presenting parent/ teacher workshops, storytelling, presenting book talks and story programming. Prerequisite(s): LIS 701; Pre- or Co-requisites: LIS 721 or 722

An overview of media technologies used in the teaching/learning process. Emphasis is given to: the relationship of learning theory to use of media (including interactive and multimedia technologies); the role of the library media specialist in facilitating effective creation/production use of media by students and teachers in elementary, middle, and secondary schools; copyright issues; and planning for technology. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Introduction to the history, current trends and integration of curriculum as it relates to the school library media program serving students in elementary, middle, and secondary schools. Emphasis is on collaborative planning and teaching between the library media specialist and teachers. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Candidates examine various theories of learning and motivation and apply their understandings in the design of learning opportunities for students. Candidates explore the use of concepts underpinning the use of learning technologies and the use of computers in a constructivist classroom. They study productivity and online tools and acquire skills for using technology in instruction. Students develop competence in the methodologies and strategies for integrating technology into classroom activities. Additionally, candidates examine research related to human, legal and equity issues concerning the use of computers and related technologies in educational settings. Listed also as EDU 528. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Practical experience in elementary, middle or secondary school library media centers totaling 400 hours. Students are placed in an elementary/middle school and a middle/secondary school setting for two, non-paid, supervised clinical experiences. Fee required. Credit: five semester hours of student teaching credit (does not count toward the MLIS degree). Offered in fall and spring. Six (6) semester hours. Prerequisites: LIS 701, 702, 703, 707, 708, 709 (or equivalent), 721, 722, 724, 725, 773 and approval of the field experience coordinator.

Advanced study of cataloging and classification systems with the primary emphasis on practical application of current standards and conceptual models, such as Resource Description & Access (RDA), IFLA Library Reference Model (LRM), and Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC21), along with subject classifications and vocabularies, such as Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC), Library of Congress Classification (LCC), and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH). Students will explore the history and principles of library cataloging standards, authority work, the challenges of developing and maintaining subject standards, meeting the needs of diverse communities, competencies within and advocacy for the cataloging profession, as well as current topics of discussion within the cataloging profession, such as emerging technologies and ethical issues. Students will catalog a variety of information resources and explore questions relevant to the material. Prerequisites:LIS 701 and 703

The course introduces the concept of Critical Race Information Theory (CRIT), which is grounded in the framework of Critical Race Theory (CRT). The course traces the legacy of CRIT from the Institute of Social Research, which led to Critical Legal Studies (CLS) then to CRT and the eventual development of CRIT. Other viable discussions towards understanding CRIT as both an Information Studies inter- and intradisciplinary endeavor include critiques of multiple aspects of Critical Librarianship. Delivered with a CRITical Cultural approach and utilizing a learning community model, the course provides opportunities for learners to engage CRIT/CRT as an emerging contribution to the research, pedagogy, and practice(s) of Information Studies. Serves as a prerequisite for LIS 762.

This course focuses on the identification and application of educational and technology-related research, the psychology of learning theories, and instructional design principles in guiding use of computers and technology in education. Listed also as EDU 777. Prerequisites: LIS 701, 703, 724, and School Library Media Program Director Permission

An in-depth analysis of reference and instruction in a variety of subject areas and settings. This course deals with information literacy, major disciplinary literature, in business, humanities, social sciences and sciences, in digital and print reference materials. Students will explore the history of library instruction, theoretical issues in the field, trends, policies, and practices related to the notion of information literacy in diverse settings. The course provides students with skills to design, implement, deliver, and evaluate library instructional programs. Prerequisites: LIS 701, LIS 702

Advanced study of the principles, concepts and skills needed in reference and information services in order to help answer users information queries by searching electronically accessible databases. An overview of existing and state-of-the-art information systems, and the development of appropriate search strategies. Prerequisite: LIS 701

An overview of collection development and management for libraries and information centers. The evaluation and selection of materials in all formats will be discussed. Particular emphasis will be given to an analysis of issues related to access of electronic content. In addition, methods for managing print, digital, and multimedia collections will be examined. Publishing trends and emerging information product formats will also be studied. Prerequisite: LIS 701

This course explores the inter-connectedness of information, people, and technologies in a crisis. In particular, it examines how information is managed, organized, coordinated, and disseminated during a crisis; it analyzes information needs and seeking behaviors during a crisis, and explores how information and communication techniques can support communities in a crisis. Students reflect on lessons learned from past crises, and develop strategies to manage future crises. This course will equip students with the knowledge and skills to enable them to be key players in crisis response. Prerequisite: LIS 701

A course designed to consider the basic principles of information: its generation, communication, storage and subsequent dissemination. Emphasis will be upon various theories of information generation and control and on the environment surrounding information utilization, including such topics as user characteristics, file design, utilization of efficient and appropriate search strategies, and measurement of the effectiveness of information systems. Current research will be presented for analysis. Prerequisite: LIS 701 or IM 701

An introduction to database concepts, database design and database implementation. Examines the role of data in the library/information environment and the application of database principles in information storage and handling. Students will have hands-on practice with a database management system. Prerequisite: LIS 701 or IM 701

An introduction to the fundamentals of the Internet, including its origins, evolution, architecture, current issues, and future. Students will gain a basic understanding of Web content languages, Web site management, and design/usability principles. Critical Internet Issues such as security, privacy, copyright, and governance will be discussed within the context of library and information services. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Most information professionals will participate in systems analysis and design over the course of their career. For some, systems analysis and design will be a primary activity while others will work with systems analysts on projects within their organizations. This course will introduce the concepts and techniques of systems analysis and design focusing on their application to information systems and services. This course will explore formal methods for modeling systems and industry practice techniques of analysis that are used to address problems and opportunities in information-based organizations. Prerequisite: LIS 701

An overview of information policy issues, both intra- and inter-organizational. One major cluster of topics covered includes the role, the organization, and the effect, particularly as it concerns productivity, of information services within the organization. A second major cluster concerns the policy issues relating to inter-organizational creation and use of information, including economic, legal and social issues, and broad policy concerns such as trans-border data flow and national information policies. Listed also as GSB 785. Prerequisite: LIS 701 or IM 701

An analysis of the theory and operation of large, complex, formal organizations. The course examines the organization as an economic, social, bureaucratic and information system with regard to such factors as structure, change, decision-making and knowledge management. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Digital Asset Management is a new and growing profession; from manufacturing and retail to healthcare, education, and cultural heritage, organizations struggle to manage their digital assets. In this course, students will explore various technologies and workflows to managing digital contents throughout an asset’s lifecycle including planning, policy development, metadata and taxonomies, branding issues, copyright, and metrics. Also listed as IM 757.

Explores contemporary theory, research, and practice in community informatics. Community Informatics (CI) is broadly defined as the use and application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in local communities. Topics covered include: foundations of CI; community networking and information systems, differences in access and use of ICTs by communities social inclusion and social exclusion ( the digital divide); public access to technologies; social capital and social networks; policy issues; digital citizenship; building community in libraries, and global approaches to CI. Topics are discussed in the context of local, national, and international case-studies. 

Digital Libraries are an important component of library services involving all aspects of the information cycle: creation, collection, organization, dissemination, and utilization. The course will provide an introduction of major Digital Library concepts to library and information professions focusing on developing the skills necessary to design and implement successful digital projects. Prerequisite: LIS 701

An introduction to library and information service outside the United States, placing the service within the socio-economic and cultural context. Allows student to learn about library and information service in selected countries through class sessions and individual reading and research. Encourages students to develop the ability to make thoughtful analyses of issues in providing library and information services. 
Prerequisite: LIS 701

A course focusing on skills needed by professionals to research, plan and implement an effective marketing program for all types of libraries, information centers, and museums. The course will address the crucial components of marketing, advocacy, and public relations, addressing management, planning, advocacy, customer behavior, research, and implementation. Prerequisite: LIS 701

This course is grounded in the framework of Critical Race Information Theory, utilizing both the tools and purposeful intentionality of Critical Race Theory (CRT), namely equity and justice along with critical thinking, advocacy, and activism. Delivered as CRITical Cultural Pedagogy the course provides opportunities to explore and analyze the realities of “captured” human information identities. In this course learning community members (LCMs) will explore information as product, process, and as an interdisciplinary endeavor. Additionally, the impact and influence of “power” must also be considered from the point-of-view of both the empowered and the disenfranchised.  Prerequisite: For IM or LIS students - IM 701 or LIS 701. Note: for those taking this course as an elective, completion of the applicable discipline’s introductory course is advised.

A course on serving adult reading needs which addresses fiction (mystery, science fiction, romance, western and more), non-fiction (self-help, biography, and history) and links among the fiction and non-fiction genres. The relationship of readers advisory services with reference and other library programs, research on adult reading, and popular reading in an information society will be examined. Students will also gain experience in adult book discussions. Prerequisite: LIS 701

This course examines the latest applications of social media and emerging technologies in library and information services or other areas. Students will experience an immersive learning environment via popular social media platforms and hands-on practices in the lab. Multimedia information creation and dissemination, new online business models, data security, ethics and privacy issues will also be explored. Listed also as EDU 790. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Development of the basic theories and principles of management and their application in the organization and operation of libraries and information centers. Particular stress will be given to goals, policies, personnel, structure, work division, communications, leadership, budgets, systems analysis and future directions in administration. Prerequisite: LIS 701

An introduction to the public library. Emphasis is on the history and theory of public library service and on library law and finance. Special problems such as censorship and the evaluation of public library service are also considered. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Administrative issues and service patterns peculiar to the academic library. Attention is directed to the relationship between the functions of the library and the program of higher education. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Introduction to the history, purpose, functions, structure and management of the school library media program serving students in elementary, middle and secondary schools. Broad planning in areas such as curriculum, personnel, facilities, finance, acquisitions and public relations. Examination of contemporary issues, legislation and technologies. Review of psychological frameworks of elementary, middle and senior high school students and the social issues affecting children and adolescents as well as the exceptional child. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Introduces students to the principles of archival work and practice. Students articulate an intellectual framework for identifying, describing, and evaluating archival records, documents and materials. They learn the principles, concepts and methods used in archival appraisal, acquisition, arrangement, description, reference and outreach, access, and advocacy. This course also introduces students to the history of the archival profession and the value of archival records and repositories in society. Offered in fall and spring. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Exploration of issues in library service to children and young adults, including access, with respect to collection leveling and classification, labeling, and intellectual freedom; advocacy, with respect to clarification and articulation, in writing and speech, of purpose and relevance; and policy, with respect to young peoples coming to, borrowing from and taking advantage of library materials, services and space. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Introduction to basic principles involved in planning, developing, and assessing library facilities. Emphasis will be placed on current and emerging approaches to library design and the ongoing transformation of the library space. Prerequisite: LIS 701

The Digital Humanities is an interdisciplinary academic field that combines the application of computational resources, tools, and methods with the traditional humanities fields such as literature, history, and philosophy. Libraries have been instrumental in the development of the digital humanities by providing the underlying data, access to tools, and technical support for researchers. In this introductory course, students will explore the history, theory, and practice of digital humanities. Students will work with various tools for text mining and entity extraction, text encoding, social network analysis, topic modeling, and creative visualization.

This course is an advanced seminar in Web design which will build on students basic Web design knowledge. The course will include deep examination of issues such as information architecture, accessibility and usability, professional interface design, and overall editorial management. In addition, students will gain a deeper understanding of emerging Web design trends and technologies such as content management systems. Offered in spring. Prerequisite: LIS 701 and LIS 753 or demonstrated knowledge of HTML and CSS

This is a course designed to help students survive and thrive as employees in library, information, and knowledge organizations serving increasingly multicultural local, national, and world contexts. Course participants will develop the communication skills and understanding necessary to success in twenty-first century academic, public and school libraries, as well as corporate information and knowledge management centers. Prerequisite: LIS 701 or IM 701

Health Informatics is the application of technology to healthcare delivery, population and public health, community-based clinical research, and the potential for big data and analytics to transform the field. Within a framework of theory and practice, students will explore the critical issues and challenges within the field including interoperability, standardization, safety, and risks associated with the implementation of the electronic health record for individual patients as well as collective big data that can be used for population health management.

Special topics in Library and Information Science 

Supervised student fieldwork experience in an approved library or information center under the direction of an SOIS faculty member. In addition, a course research report or project will be required. The library supervisor, the faculty member and the student meet periodically to review the student’s progress. Students have an option for either 1.5 or 3 credit hours; the 1.5 credit hour Practicum requires 60 hours work at the practicum site during the semester. The three-credit hour Practicum requires 120 hours work onsite (approximately 10 hours per week for 12 weeks). Prerequisites: Student must have completed 18 semester hours, including LIS 701, 702, 703, 707 and 708; GPA of 3.3 or higher.

Directed and supervised projects of independent study. Limited to students having a grade point average of 3.3 or above who have a sufficient background to work independently. Consent of the instructor is required before registration. No student may take more than two independent studies. Prerequisites: Completion of eight courses, including LIS 701, 702, 703, 707, and 708. 

Special Topics (1.5 hours)

Special Topics

Special Topics

3 Credit Hours. The clinical practice comprises the final phase of requirements for a Professional Educator License with a PK-12 Endorsement for Library Information Specialist (school librarian). Candidates must apply for and be accepted into this semester of coursework and fieldwork. The School of Education makes all placements in approved schools. Clinical practice is completed under the cooperation and supervision of a cooperating librarian and a university supervisor. Candidates demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the art and science of teacher librarianship through performances in two school libraries and complete coursework in methods of instruction for reading and methods of instruction for special education. Evaluation focuses on assuring that the candidate meets the appropriate content area standards and the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards. Candidates also complete and submit their edTPA, a performance-based state assessment during this semester. Prerequisite(s): LIS 701, LIS 702, LIS 703, LIS 707, LIS 708, LIS 721, LIS 722, LIS 725, LIS 773, and LIS 724, or LIS 754, or LIS 768 , or LIS 786. or LIS 882, or LIS 884 and approval of the field experience coordinator.

Provides an awareness of current theories and foundation of knowledge management with an emphasis on profit and not-for-profit organizations. Discusses knowledge assets and their value to organizations in terms of products, processes, market and services. Examines analytical tools and techniques for knowledge acquisition, assessment, evaluation, management and organization, and dissemination. Provides an analysis of commercially available documents, databases and applications packages, reviews best practices and experiences and addresses the design and execution of knowledge management projects. Listed also as Listed also as GSB 784.

This course offers an in-depth examination of the archival functions of appraisal, acquisition, arrangement, description, reference and outreach, access, and advocacy. Students will work with standalone and integrated archival management systems. Students will learn about management and administrative issues, such as facilities and risk management, technology planning, preservation strategies, digitization strategies, copyright and cultural institutions, grant writing, and policy development. Prerequisite: LIS 885 or LIS 775

This course will provide a comprehensive and practical introduction to metadata for digital collections. The course will provide students knowledge of the kinds and uses of metadata commonly found in digital collections. Students will learn about and use specific schema, such as Dublin Core, MODS, and VRA Core, to describe and organize digital resources. The course will also provide an overview of XML, linked data, and metadata interoperability, quality and sharing. Prerequisites: LIS 701 and 703.

Competitive Intelligence (CI) uses legal and ethical means for efficiently discovering, developing and delivering timely, relevant new knowledge about the external environment. This course provides an overview of CI theories and best practices, and introduces the latest big data analytics & visualization techniques to facilitate effective decision making. Areas of studies include: spotting business trends, managing public relations crises, determining quality of research /education, preventing diseases, combating crimes and more. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Students will learn about issues of diverse cultural heritage resources and services, such as tangible and intangible resources, and culturally-competent services. They will learn about implement methods to assess and document the cultural heritage of diverse communities. They will learn nomenclature, museum technology, and curation practices. They will work with both case studies and with actual communities in Chicago to implement diverse rules and norms, standards, and Traditional Knowledge (TK) for organizing, exhibiting, and preserving cultural heritage resources. Prerequisite: LIS 701

Students learn the fundamentals for an effective records and information management program. They learn about the technology, principles, and practices that are necessary for a systematic control of records throughout their life cycle. They learn the value and implementation of records and information as strategy, management, research, development, and compliance for an organization or institution. Prerequisite: LIS 701

This course is a focused practical field experience combined with a classroom component. Students will work on site in small teams on projects selected by the archives or cultural heritage institution and pre-approved by the course instructor. Working on projects with defined goals and expectations, students will apply the theory and concepts from LIS 775 or LIS 885. They will identify the issues and challenges facing many archives and cultural heritage institutions. In the classroom component of the class, students will share and discuss their activities and projects with each other and the instructor. Prerequisites: LIS 701, 775 or 885

Increasingly libraries, information centers, archives, museums, and other information-based organizations are becoming repositories for digital collections and digital objects. Preserving digital materials has emerged as a major initiative for these organizations. This course will provide an overview of the research in curating and preserving digital data, will provide practical experience in working with digital materials, and will develop the skills necessary to create curation plans for digital materials. Prerequisites: LIS 701 and LIS 709 or equivalent.

The submission of an ePortfolio during the last semester of study is required of students seeking the master of library and information science degree. The assignment is graded as pass/fail and the prospective graduate must satisfactorily meet the requirement. Students must submit an application for graduation with the Office of the Registrar to prompt individual registration in this course. Non-Credit. Prerequisite: Application for Graduation on file.

Offers an overview of the field of library and information science with emphasis on critical understanding of its history, scope, diversity, theoretical principles, and practical procedures. Establishes groundwork for future study by developing and strengthening understanding of LIS concepts and frames of reference. Prerequisite: PhD students only

Directed and supervised projects of independent study for students enrolled in the PhD program. Prerequisite: PhD students only

This course offers an opportunity to explore the philosophy and history of teaching and introduces tools and theories about learning in higher education settings. In addition, the course introduces techniques to shape how to be a successful instructor and communicator. Although this course is designed for students planning careers in academe, it is also for students with a variety of interests and career goals, including improved thinking and presentation skills. Prerequisite: PhD students only

Explores information access, seeking, and retrieval in past and future contexts. Moves from studying the information seeking behaviors of varied and diverse populations to analyzing information activities in online settings; considers the importance of communication exchange as a foundation for understanding libraries, emerging information technologies and design, and the management of knowledge in organizations. Prerequisite: PhD students only

This doctorate level seminar course will investigate information policy, particularly in respect to its relationship to American democracy and its impacts on core values of the information profession. Issues such as privacy, intellectual freedom, and intellectual property will be explored at length, beginning with the origins of intellectual thinking in these broad areas. In addition, we will examine the policy process and its various stages, along with its influences and roadblocks. The course will review various political perspectives and government levels, international information policies and information flows, and will also include a strong focus on the historical and contemporary impacts of technologies on these topics. Prerequisite: PhD students only

Provides a historical and conceptual foundation of literacy initiatives in libraries and related organizations with analysis and comparison of information literacy models and community literacy programs, and investigation of the influences on learning and literacy of socio-cultural factors, political systems, and public and private institutions. Prerequisite: PhD students only

In this course you will practice a systematic approach for effectively organizing and writing as a member of an academic community. You will apply your understanding of this writing system as you learn to integrate academic writing with your reading, listening, speaking, and thinking. Prerequisite: PhD students only

This seminar course will cover the broad topic of information systems research. Readings on both the theory and practice of information systems research will be explored. During this course, students will become familiar with classic information systems topics such as systems development lifecycles, project management, technology productivity, capability, and organization performance as well as several emerging information systems topics, including information technology innovation, technology diffusion, social network analysis, and online community. Prerequisite: PhD students only

This course will prepare students to develop research designs that implement quantitative methods and statistical analysis of data. Students will conduct research on a current issue as it relates to their research interests. Listed also as IM 967. Prerequisite: PhD students only

An investigation and examination of the library and information science profession within a global context. 

Presents practical and theoretical tools of responsible and innovative inquiry for library and information services and settings. Addresses qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches to rigorous investigation and problem resolution. Prerequisite: PhD students only

Gives step-by-step guidance on writing a successful dissertation. Covers vital processes like developing a research idea, writing a literature review, crafting a proposal, and submitting a thesis, and provides practical advice on committee selection and work habits. Prerequisite: PhD students only

This course will prepare students to develop research designs that implement qualitative methods and analysis of data. Students will conduct research on a current issue as it relates to their research interests. Prerequisite: PhD students only

Directed and supervised projects of independent doctoral study. Consent of the instructor is required before registration.  Prerequisites: PhD students only; Instructor Permission

For PhD students who have completed 36 hours of coursework and who have passed their qualifying examination. Six (6) hours. Prerequisites: PhD students only; Instructor Permission