LIBR 245-10
Advanced Online Searching
Spring 2003

Reva Basch, MLS
reva@well.com
Office and office hours are virtual;
contact via email

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Course Schedule & Readings

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Course Description:

This course offers the opportunity to tackle real-world research projects using the major professional database services and appropriate web-based sources, including the "invisible web." Students will complete assigned readings, participate in discussions, design and carry out research scenarios in areas of interest, and submit original papers examining contemporary issues in electronic information retrieval and delivery such as quality of information, copyright, and critical thinking.

Objectives:

Students will learn to

• evaluate the tradeoffs between free and fee-based online services, and among the leading professional services
• apply online resources in a strategic way to answer complex (and interesting!) questions
• understand and deal with some of the significant issues surrounding online information retrieval and use

This course meets SLIS teaching objective 2 and research objective 1 .

Course Requirements and Expectations:

Successful course participants will

• submit a brief bio and statement of purpose at the beginning of the course
• complete readings
• contribute to discussion in a regular and meaningful way
• conduct, document and analyze a multi-faceted research scenario
• research and write a substantive paper on a topic to be determined

Assignments:

In addition to participating actively in discussion topics posted in Blackboard, students are expected to complete two individual assignments:

• A research scenario involving the use of multiple online resources, including web and commercial for-fee services. Examples will be provided, or students may develop their own with the approval of the instructor. Exercise will include developing and outlining an effective overall search strategy, identifying and evaluating potential sources of information, conducting research using the appropriate system/site protocols and search engines, analyzing and summarizing the results. Assignment may be submitted in Word, HTML, PowerPoint, or a combination of media as appropriate. Due approximately mid-term.
• An original paper on a significant issue in the online information environment. Possible topics will be suggested, though students may elect to explore other areas with the instructor's approval. Textual portion of the paper should be at least 15 pages in length, not counting supporting examples, documentation and references. Paper will be due during the final week of the course.

Grading:

Class participation and initiative: 20%
Research scenario: 40%
Paper: 40%
Extra credit for creativity (in everything but excuses), thoroughness (within reason), thoughtfulness and originality.

Readings:

Students are strongly encouraged to read at least one of the Super Searcher book series, preferably in an area of their interest. A complete list of titles is available at www.infotoday.com/supersearchers/

Students may also opt to read Researching Online For Dummies, 2nd ed., by Basch and Bates. IDG Books, 2000.