Introduction to the Information Professions

Abstract

Students are introduced to basic concepts in information studies, to the work of information professionals and the contexts of professional practice, including libraries, archives, records repositories and other information centres and organisations. Cultural, legal, technical, social, and ethical issues currently influencing the functions and operations of professional practice are explored, … For more content click the Read More button below.

Students are introduced to basic concepts in information studies, to the work of information professionals and the contexts of professional practice, including libraries, archives, records repositories and other information centres and organisations. Cultural, legal, technical, social, and ethical issues currently influencing the functions and operations of professional practice are explored, and information scholarship and research introduced. The subject will orient students to the BIS program and enable them to develop and refine their individual educational and professional objectives.

Syllabus

Introduction to the information profession Reflective practice and academic skills Basic concepts in information studiesContext of professional practiceNetworks, IT infrastructure and the digital environmentWork of information professionsSocial, technical and legal issues for information professionalsFuture of Information Professions

Assessment items

1. Historical summary

2. Annotated bibliography and draft introduction

3. Technology trends discussion paper

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to describe the basic concepts and core knowledge related to information studies and the information professions;

be able to identify the roles and functions of the various types of information agencies and the specific needs of their users;

be able to investigate and critically analyse libraries and information agencies in their historical, social, cultural, economic, and political contexts;

understand basic IT terminology relevant to the information studies field and the role of IT in enabling the management of information;

be able to describe how information is organised for, and retrieved by, information agency users;

demonstrate an understanding of some key factors related to information literacy and information seeking behaviour; and

demonstrate an understanding of the historical, social and legal issues emerging from the information society, and explain the implications of these for information professionals.

Enrolment restrictions

Not available to those students who have completed INF100 or INF105