Spring 2019
Course DetailsInstructor
Dr. Susan Burke Course Experience For my final semester in the MLIS program, this class was my only course alongside completing this portfolio. While I learned about research and evaluation methods in my undergrad career, much has changed in terms of access to digital materials and availability of online survey tools (even in the last nine years since my undergraduate senior seminar). The topic I chose for my research proposal for the class was book discussion groups at public libraries. ALSC Competencies At the time of this course, I was the Youth Librarian at the Herman and Kate Kaiser Library. I. Commitment to Client Group: I.6. VI. Administrative and Management Skills: VI.2, VI.3, VI.5, VI.7 VII. Professionalism and Professional Development: VII.2, VII.3 |
Samples of CourseworkThe main project for this course is a research proposal on a subject of my choice. I chose to research book discussion groups at public libraries. As this class is in progress as I complete my portfolio, I have select components of this project available. I have enjoyed learning more about these kinds of research and evaluation tools.
The work I have completed so far in this course have supported competencies in a number of categories, including Professionalism and Professional Development. By learning about research and evaluation methods, I will be better equipped to continue in research and analysis after my school career ends. Of particular note are VII.2 and VII.3:
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Course Description and Objectives from Syllabus
Methods of investigating library and information (LIS) problems; use of evaluation in planning for continuous quality assessment and improvement of LIS policies, processes, and procedures; developing original research designs; evaluating research studies in LIS.
This course is designed to:
Student Learning Objectives from Syllabus
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Methods of investigating library and information (LIS) problems; use of evaluation in planning for continuous quality assessment and improvement of LIS policies, processes, and procedures; developing original research designs; evaluating research studies in LIS.
This course is designed to:
- Introduce students to research methodologies commomly used in LIS including data collection techniques, sampling, and basic data analysis
- Explain and outline the nature of elements of research and evaluation proposals
- Provide experience in identifying LIS problems for examination and designing appropriate data collection plans to apply to the identified problems
- Guide students in effective design of research and evaluation proposals in LIS settings
Student Learning Objectives from Syllabus
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Define and appropriately use the concepts and language of research
- Identify and provide examples of major research methodologies
- Identify various data sources and techniques of data collection and analysis
- Articulate the commonalities and differences between research and evaluation
- Plan and design research and evaluation activities relevant to issues in LIS
- Articulate the use of evaluation outcomes in administrative planning and management
- Understand and evaluate reported research in LIS
- Identify and discuss ethical issues in data collection and use, particularly in regards to human subjects.