INF406 Information Sources and Services (8)

This subject introduces students to the nature and structure of information work across different sectors including galleries, libraries, archives, museums, government organisations and commercial enterprises. It examines the major information sources and services used and developed by information professionals to answer various information requests in different contexts. The concepts of search strategies and critical evaluation of information are introduced. The dynamics of reference interviews in the larger reference process are studied. A variety of search strategies are examined and evaluated. Technical, cultural, ethical and legal aspects of information services are discussed. Marketing and visibility of information services are studied. Students will also evaluate and reflect on various roles of information professionals in providing quality information services.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
Online
SPACE, University of Hong Kong
Wagga Wagga Campus
Session 2 (60)
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus
Session 3 (90)
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: INF406. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Information Studies

Enrolment Restrictions

Not available to students who have completed INF106, INF202 or INF211.

Subject Relationships

INF211 Paired Subject

Incompatible Subjects

INF106, INF202, INF211

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to efficiently locate and critically evaluate a range of information resources for the purpose of meeting users' information needs;
  • be able to apply knowledge to efficiently plan and conduct information services in various contexts;
  • be able to evaluate the purpose and role of the reference interview in meeting users' information needs;
  • be able to understand the impact of emerging technologies and social media on the roles of information professionals and information services;
  • be able to apply knowledge of various online platforms and applications to engage and communicate with users; and
  • be able to market and provide access to new information sources and services for existing and potential users.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • What are information services?
  • The information professional's roles in information services
  • New technical, cultural, ethical and legal aspects of information work
  • The reference process: traditional and virtual environments
  • Reference interview techniques
  • Educational roles of information professionals
  • Standard sources of information used in information services
  • Evaluating information sources
  • Searching for relevant and reliable information
  • Implementing and maintaining virtual information services
  • User-centred information services
  • Marketing and visibility of information services

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of INF406 in Session 3 2020. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Report & search strategy reflections
50
2
Reference interview and library guide
50

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2021. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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