LIS 5063 – Information and Communication Technology, Kun Lu, Fall 2018

Course Goals:

• Understand theory and history of information and communication technologies
• Understand the social, technical, and organizational influences on the use and users of information technology

Learning and Skill Objectives:

• Outline the history and current developments in information technology, including hardware, software, and Internet-based technologies
• Outline the fundamentals of computer networks and the Internet
• Identify functions of and utilize current online information tools
• Discuss security, privacy, and other social issues inherent in information technology
• Identify critical issues involved in managing and implementing information systems including technology, human, social, and organizational issues
• Design and implement information technology solutions in networked environments

LIS 5063 presented a broad overview of many aspects of information technology.  The course provided base knowledge on the history of information technology (IT), hardware, software, systems analysis, and networks.  For me, personally, I think my greatest gains came in the areas of database design, website design, and information system analysis.  I would have appreciated more applicable, practical knowledge on technologies affecting libraries and library users.

Again, the course did expand my knowledge on various topics concerning information technology.  One assignment that benefited me greatly was the ERD (Entity-Relationship Diagram) assignment.  The assignment required the building of a database in Microsoft Access.  The exposure and use of this program allowed for applicable practice, but the greatest gain for me was identifying the relationships between, and the attributes of, the entities.  I was required to think in-depth about each entity and what information users and staff would need to access desired materials and information.  This will help me in the future as I describe and catalog materials (Goal 1.1 and 3.3).

LIS 5063 also helped me to gain skills in analyzing and evaluating websites and information systems.  I understand the importance of analyzing these systems from the user’s point-of-view.  The website design course content presented articles that also expanded my knowledge of studies that revealed user preferences (how many clicks they expect to use, where the eyes look first, etc.) (Goal 1.1 and 1.2).  This will be beneficial if I design a library webpage or when giving feedback to library webpage designers in the future (Goal 1.7).

Lastly, the Final Graduate Paper assignment will enhance my skills as a school librarian.  Technology has made a tremendous impact on school libraries and will continue to impact libraries.  This assignment led me to research focusing on current trends and their impacts on student engagement, student learning, the physical space of the library, and the use of the library (Goals 1.2, 1.6, 1.7).  The information and resources gained will help me stay attuned to trends in library technology, better organize a library that successfully utilizes technology, and makes good use of a library that supports 21^st Century learners (Goal 3.3).

Website Design

For this assignment, I was able to apply the gained knowledge, from readings and research, to design website wireframes.  Understanding users’ needs and preferences is essential when  designing or providing insight to designers.  Librarians can then work to help ensure that their system’s website is meeting users’ needs.

Impacts of Technology on School Libraries (Final Paper)

Technology has the potential to make major impacts on school libraries.  Some libraries reflect these changes, while barriers prevent other libraries from evolving.  This paper allowed me to study current impacts, emerging technology, technological benefits, and more.  I was also able to provide future implications for school librarians and stakeholders.

Entity Relationship Diagram