Course Description. Basic Library Skills is a course designed to promote information literacy. The information literate student can determine the extent and nature of information needed; access the needed information effectively and efficiently; evaluate information and its sources critically; incorporate selected information into his or her knowledge base; use information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose; and understand the ethics and legality of the use of information.
Student Learning Objectives . Students will be able to conduct research, i.e., find books, journal articles, and reference materials for a variety of subjects. They will be able to use and identify the many different kinds of reference tools such as directories, almanacs, yearbooks, handbooks, etc. They will learn to use print,and web based indexes and catalogs. They will learn how to search the WEB and to evaluate what they find. They will understand the appropriate and ethical use of information.
What students are expected to gain: Upon completion of this class students will know how conduct research with confidence and acuity. They will be able to explore the library with purpose and pleasure. They will be able to recognize when they need information. Students will also become skilled in:
- Task definition
- Using technology in libraries
- Search strategies
- Locating information
- Using information to accomplish a specific purpose
- Synthesizing information
- Understanding how information is organized