Learning Goals
Goal I: Leadership and Innovation
Students are innovative, ethical, problem-solvers able to lead and manage through communication, collaboration, and reflection.
I.a. Students are able to evaluate critically, reflect, and problem-solve individually and collaboratively.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 6271 Research Methods in Lib & Info Science - Summer 2023
Artifact Description: This qualitative study on gender and LGBTQ perspectives in the library science field allowed me to apply my critical thinking, reflection, and problem-solving skills by going beyond simply reading a case study. I also measured the merits of the scholarly report. This in-depth analysis of the research performed by Anna Vilarroya and Juan-Jose Bote’-Vericad helped to capture the intent and execution of their empirical evidence on this weighty subject. I was able to delve into their research processes behind their final conclusion. I used the information learned during this course to not only assess the accuracy of the data presented, but delve deeper and consider the various perspectives. The sources were analyzed and I was able to improve my ability to evaluate data and think beyond my individual viewpoint. I was able to break down the problem into manageable parts. This kind of analysis revealed my ability to not only solve problems, but also reflect on the scientific research process.
I.b. Students demonstrate effective communication skills.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 6303 Preparing Instructional Media - Spring 2023
Artifact Description: This project was intended to instruct on the best methods to demonstrate effective communication skills. The instructor permitted us to select our topic of choice. So I purposely selected a non-literary topic on which to instruct the pupils. Creating an informational video about introductory yoga poses was a fantastic way for me to utilize the foundations of effective communication skills. First, the process required me to think critically about the information I wanted to convey. I initially organized my thoughts by creating a storyboard. I was able to identify the key points I wanted to convey and the learning outcomes I wanted the viewers to achieve. I used the techniques derived during this specific course and previous courses to ensure my message was clear and concise. My focus on clarity and structure of my written and spoken communication, helped to improve my ability to express myself effectively using this digital medium. Secondly, crafting a video as opposed to a written document, helped me to consider the audience. Through the lessons learned during the program, I was encouraged to use engaging visuals, appropriate language, and a well-paced delivery – to achieve effective communication style for maximum impact.
I.c. Students participate in professional and community engagement activities in the field.
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Course: LIS 6409 Introduction to Library Administration - Summer 2023
Artifact Description: Critiquing the Pinellas Public Library Cooperative’s strategic plan was a powerful way for me to participate in professional engagement and community engagement in the field. I had to analyze the plan's goals, assess the feasibility of proposed actions, and identify potential gaps or areas for improvement. This strengthens my ability to evaluate information objectively, a crucial skill for navigating complex professional situations. Furthermore, critiquing the plan allows me to see the bigger picture and to understand how different library services interconnect, and how their plan aligns with the community's needs. This fosters a broader perspective, which will be invaluable when collaborating with colleagues and contributing to future projects within a professional setting.
I.d. Students demonstrate leadership skills and innovation in a diverse and global environment.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 6303 Preparing Instructional Media - Summer 2023
Artifact Description: Crafting this video tutorial instructing libraries how to build an augmented reality space helped me demonstrate leadership skills and innovation in a diverse and global environment. I started by taking the steps to research and synthesize complex information. I wanted to use the best practices of a good leader by clearly explaining the process in an engaging manner that was easy to follow. Instead of focusing on a specific library, I needed to consider an audience anywhere in the country. Thinking about different learning styles, language barriers, and accessibility needs forces me to find creative ways to deliver the information universally. The instructional video included project elements such as budgets and regulatory concerns. Ultimately, this video was designed to empower others, regardless of their background or technical expertise, to explore the possibilities of adding augmented reality for their patrons.
Goal II: Systems and Services
Students understand the systems and technologies that facilitate the management and use of information resources to serve the diverse needs of users.
II.a Students identify and analyze diverse information needs of individuals and communities.
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Course: LIS 5020 Foundations of Library and Info Science - Summer 2022
Artifact Description: Tackling the evolution of diversity in library information systems forces me to confront the ever-changing needs of individuals and communities. By tracing how libraries have historically collected and presented information, I can see how these practices have both reflected and sometimes fallen short of diverse user groups. For example, analyzing the inclusion of minority voices in past collections can highlight historical biases and prompt reflection on how curation practices can be adapted to ensure representation of a wider range of perspectives. This historical lens also allows me to anticipate future information needs. Examining how technological advancements have changed how people access and consume information allows me to predict how libraries can adapt their resources and services. For instance, the rise of multilingual online resources necessitates ensuring accessibility for non-native speakers. By understanding the evolution of information needs, I can analyze the diverse needs of current communities and propose strategies for libraries to keep pace with a constantly evolving information landscape.
II.b. Students evaluate and select print and digital information resources and systems to meet the needs of users.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 5020 Foundations of Library and Info Science - Summer 2022
Artifact Description: Putting together an infographic about information resources is like building a user-friendly map. It forces me to think critically about the vast landscape of print and digital resources available. I need to categorize them by type (academic journals, websites, databases) and highlight their strengths and weaknesses. This analysis helps me understand how each resource fulfills different user needs. This assignment forced me to condense complex information about resources into easily digestible visuals and concise text. This focus on user-friendliness translates directly to selecting the best resources for specific needs. By prioritizing clarity and highlighting key features, the infographic becomes a tool that empowers users to navigate the information world and find the resources that best suit their research goals.
II.c. Students understand and use appropriate information technology for information services.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 6603 Basic Information Sources and Services - Summer 2022
Artifact Description: Examining the potential of blockchain technology in libraries pushed me to explore the intersection of information services and cutting-edge information technology (IT). By delving into how blockchain's core functionalities like secure data storage and tamper-proof records can be applied to library systems, I gained a deeper understanding of how technology can revolutionize information management, collection, storage, and use. This analysis requires considering the specific needs of libraries, such as ensuring the authenticity of digital resources or streamlining copyright management. I needed to evaluate how blockchain's features align with these needs, identifying potential benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, writing about blockchain in libraries encourages the student to think critically about the appropriate use of IT. It's not just about implementing the latest technology; it's about understanding how it can enhance existing information services and ultimately improve user experience. This critical lens allowed me to move beyond simply identifying new technologies to become a discerning advocate for IT solutions that truly benefit the library and its patrons.
Goal III: Knowledge Representation
Students are proficient in the theory and application of skills essential for knowledge representation in evolving technology environments, in any chosen area of specialization.
III.a. Students analyze, organize and describe various formats of information objects.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 6404 Project Management for Information Professionals - Summer 2024
Artifact Description: Dissecting the failed London Tower Bridge project through a presentation is a crash course in information wrangling. First, I have to sift through a mountain of resources – historical documents, engineering reports, maybe even old newspaper articles. Each format presents its own challenges: technical jargon in engineering reports, subjective accounts in newspapers, and potentially biased perspectives in historical documents. Learning to analyze them critically, identify key points, and separate fact from opinion becomes crucial. Once I've wrangled the information, organizing it becomes the next hurdle. Facts and figures need clear presentation, perhaps in charts or graphs. Quotes from historical documents can add a human element, while images of the bridge's original design can provide visual context. This process forces me to consider the most effective way to communicate each piece of information, choosing the format (text, image, data visualization) that best conveys the message to my audience. Ultimately, creating this presentation is an exercise in transforming a jumble of information into a cohesive and informative narrative.
III.b. Students identify and apply best practices in the use of different technologies for knowledge representation.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 5020 Foundations of Library and Info Science - Summer 2022
Artifact Description: Crafting an infographic about library business management is a springboard for understanding how technology shapes knowledge representation in libraries. Firstly, it compelled me to identify the key components of successful library management - budgeting, resource allocation, user engagement metrics. Then I needed to translate these abstract concepts into visually compelling elements. This involved using the infographic as a chart to express budget types, funding types, funding sources, and the budget audit process. This process caused me to contemplate the most effective way to represent each piece of knowledge, ensuring clarity and understanding for the audience. Beyond simple representation, the infographic became a tool to showcase the library budget process that management must consider. This visual storytelling highlights how tech can streamline processes, improve data analysis, and ultimately enhance the user experience within the library. Through this creative exercise, I not only learned best practices in knowledge representation but also recognizes technology as a powerful ally in managing libraries effectively.
Goal IV: Theory and Praxis
Students have a critical grounding in theoretical perspectives that draw on research in LIS as well as other fields of knowledge, that inform their professional practices including research, organization, management, and access to information.
IV.a. Students will describe applications of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies in library and information science.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 6603 Basic Information Sources and Services - Summer 2022
Artifact Description: Building an annotated bibliography on library and information science research exposed me to the diverse applications of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. As I delved into scholarly articles and books and I encountered studies that analyze user behavior through quantitative methods. This annotated bibliography focused on Black American Women Poets and Dramatists. Analyzing these annotations helped me understand how numbers can be used to measure user engagement and inform library resource allocation. The bibliography also offered a view into qualitative research approaches. Ultimately, creating this annotated bibliography allowed me to appreciate the strengths of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, recognizing their roles in uncovering a richer understanding of information needs, behaviors, and library services.
IV.b. Students will identify opportunities for research and develop plans for research in applied settings in library and information science.
Artifact Link: LINK
Course: LIS 6711 Organization of Knowledge I - Spring 2023
Artifact Description: Examining artificial intelligence’s (AI’s) role in automating document classification opens doors for me to identify exciting research opportunities. By delving into the current state of document classification in libraries, I could pinpoint areas where manual processes create bottlenecks and inconsistencies. For example, there could be a backlog of unprocessed materials hindering user access or inconsistencies in classification could make it difficult for patrons to find relevant information. This analysis honed my ability to translate real-world library challenges into focused research questions. AI-powered classification systems could potentially improve efficiency, accuracy, and ultimately user experience. This paper on AI in document classification explored various methodologies to evaluate the effectiveness of such systems. Using machine learning algorithms trained on library-specific data sets could achieve high accuracy. By considering the factors related to this innovation, the industry could implement solutions using AI, but also incorporate user feedback and establish clear metrics to measure success in a real world library environment.