GREENSHEET
Course Description:
This is a process-oriented introductory course describing how reference
librarians and other information professionals answer questions asked
by their patrons or clients. The course emphasizes two aspects of the
system developed for this function: the interpersonal skills to determine
the information needs of the inquirer; and the knowledge of sources and
search techniques to fill the need and help the inquirer solve her or
his problem. Sources include print, microform, electronic (CD-ROM, online,
Internet, WWW), and people. Perspectives of digital reference service
will also be discussed.
Course Objectives:
• To understand the problem-solving process in a variety of
situations, and the functions of library reference services;
• To identify the standard reference tools employed by librarians
and information professionals;
• To learn how to answer a variety of reference questions, and
how to conduct reference interviews;
• To examine how to libraries provide reference services in the
digital age.
SLIS Objectives:
• Information transfer
• Selection and utilization of information resources
Required Text
• Katz, William A. (2002). Introduction to Reference Work. 8th
ed. New York: McGraw-Hill (Call #: Z711 .K32 2002). This book has two
volumes. Vol. 1 is the required textbook and can be purchased at SJSU
Spartan Bookstore or via www.bn.com.
One copy on reserve at SJSU Library.
Readings
See the reading list.
Course Requirements:
• Studying reference sources in various formats;
• Answering reference questions assigned;
• Reading the literature of reference;
• Six assignments including papers, projects and 4 hours of observation
of reference work in libraries;
• Class participation including role-playing, presentations, and
group exercises.
Students MUST be able to:
1. Access the Internet/WWW, Microsoft Office (Word and PowerPoint),
and Adobe Reader.
2. Send/receive e-mails and know how to use the Internet effectively
and search common web search engines (e.g., Google).
3. Know how to use Blackboard. The tutorial is on the
SLIS web site.
Blackboard:
IMPORTANT: You must enroll yourselves to the course Blackboard before
the first day of class (January 29, 2004) to ensure that you receive the
announcements on time.
Grading:
Assignment #1: Paper on reference librarian - 20%
Assignment #2: Reference tools exercise – 20%
Assignment #3: Reference core collection project – 20%
Assignment #4: Virtual reference project – 20%
Assignment #5: Observation paper – 20%
Grading Policy:
Grades are determined in the following manner. Late assignments are
not accepted unless previously approved by the instructor.
100 A+
95-99 A
90-94 A-
85-89 B+
80-84 B
75-79 B-
70-74 C+
65-69 C
60-64 C-
|