Gwybodaeth Modiwlau

Module Identifier
DS36620
Module Title
INFORMATION SOURCES: ACCESS, USE AND EVALUATION
Academic Year
2008/2009
Co-ordinator
Semester
Distance Learning
Other Staff

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Subject bibliography  equivalent of an essay of 3,500 words - weighted 50%. 
Semester Assessment User study report  equivalent of an essay of 3,500 words - weighted 50%. 

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

  • Distinguish between various types of information sources

* Outline those sources of value to a specific user group

* Outline how the use of information sources and needs can be studied

* State what is meant by bibliographic control of information sources

* Outline the structure of a general national bibliography, with particular reference to the UK

* Discuss various features of specific information sources, such as serials and electronic/non-book materials

* Use a range of bibliographic sources both print and electronic, including bibliographies, abstracting and indexing services and Internet search engines

* Produce a select subject bibliography

Brief description

This module introduces students to the characteristics and functions of a variety of information sources, both formal and informal, and examines various bibliographic control systems, which provide users with access to those information sources. Students will gain practical experience in using a range of information sources and the bibliographies and other tools that open up access to them. This module offers the opportunity for students to develop important transferable skills in the field of accessing information sources.

Aims

The main aim of the module is to introduce students to the characteristics and functions of a variety of information sources, both formal and informal, which currently provide users with the information they require. The will also examine the bibliographic control systems, such as various bibliographies, abstracting and indexing services and Internet search engines, which provide users with access to those information sources. In particular, this module will focus on the general national bibliographic structure of the United Kingdom, and students will gain practical experience in using a range of information sources and the bibliographies and other open up access to them.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Information Technology Much of the module will require the students to use IT such as searching the Internet, electronic information sources and databases for appropriate examples. Assignment 2 also requires these skills, and student will further be expected to make use of the Department?s computer conferencing system.
Personal Development and Career planning This is an area of skills needed by all information professionals.
Subject Specific Skills * Independent work: students are given the parameters in which to work for the assignments, but precisely what they do and how, will be upon to them. * Writing in an academic context: assignments require normal academic conventions * Self-management: independent learning requiring time-management
Team work Computer conferencing will be used to support the exchange of views concerning some of the practical exercise assignments.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6