Module Information

Module Identifier
IL10120
Module Title
Foundations of Information Studies
Academic Year
2022/2023
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 1
Other Staff

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Essay  (1500 words)  50%
Semester Assessment Report  (1500 words)  50%
Supplementary Assessment Report  (1500 words)  50%
Supplementary Assessment Essay  (1500 words)  50%

Learning Outcomes

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

1. Describe how information science, information management and knowledge management evolved.

2. Discuss implications of information technology, such as the impact of the internet on information use.

3. Undertake an effective search for information using a variety of resources, with an emphasis on those provided by AU.

4. Explain and describe the various formats in which information is packaged, structured and disseminated.

5. Describe some of the main ways in which information is organized to facilitate access.

6. Explain and describe the purpose of resource discovery systems, and identify the specific user needs they are designed to meet.

Brief description

This module provides a foundation in some key principles and skills in the discipline of information studies particularly relating to information management and resource discovery, and it will familiarize students with the structure, content and purpose of a range of information sources and resource discovery systems. The aim is to give students an introduction to the meaning and foundations of information studies, the professions linked to it, and the role they place in society. It also aims to place information studies in context by looking at the various forms and formats of recorded information, and will introduce students to information searching and evaluation, especially in the use of online bibliographic information and resources provided by Aberystwyth University.

Content

Key content on this module includes:
Outline of the structure, content and purpose of a range of information sources and resource discovery systems. Introduction to the meaning and foundations of information studies, the professions linked to it, and the role they place in society.
Introducing the context of information studies by looking at the various forms and formats of recorded information
An introduction to information searching and evaluation, especially in the use of online bibliographic information and resources provided by Aberystwyth University.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number n/a
Communication Assignment writing and group work.
Improving own Learning and Performance Reflective element built into assignments.
Information Technology Across module
Personal Development and Career planning Addressed in elements of module through lectures and research.
Problem solving Identifying and evaluating systems and source material.
Research skills Through searching and evaluation skills developed in specific sessions.
Subject Specific Skills Inherent in module.
Team work n/a

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4