INLS200: Retrieving and Analyzing Information

Course description

Viewing information as a social cultural construct, this course covers the processes used in seeking information by evaluating the quality of the information retrieval, and synthesizing it into a useful form.

Course objectives

The objective of this course is to provide you (the student) with the knowledge you need to search for, evaluate, and synthesize information. At the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. 1. Conduct advanced searches for many types of information using a wide range of information systems.
2. 2. Evaluate the tools used in searching and the information retrieved to make informed selections from search results.
3. 3. Create new products from the synthesis of your selected information resources.
4. 4. Reflect upon the impact of information resources, tools, and systems on the world and your daily life.

Grading

Assignments and percentage of total grade

• Source evaluation matrix: 15%
• Current events post: 14% (7% each)
• Current events comments: 6% (3% each)
• Wikipedia article and presentation: 30%
• In-class workshops: 25% (5% each)
• Class participation: 10%

Policies on assignments

1. 1. Assignments must be submitted by the beginning of the class sesssion in which they are due.
2. 2. Assignments must be submitted via the assignment drop box in Bb.
3. 3. If you have questions about the assignment or need to request an extension for any reason, this must be done 24 hours before the assignment is due.

4. 4. Late assignments will be accepted for up to a week after the due date, but they will automatically receive a 10% deducation.

Policies on participation

1. 1. You are expected to attend class every day, be prepared with all homework and reading assignments and participate in class discussions and in-class workshops.
2. 2. If you miss more than two classes in a row, I expect you to email me or schedule time to meet with me to discuss the circumstances surrounding your absences.