Revamping MLS Curriculum for the 21st Century Librarian

The MLS curriculum was last updated in 1986 and was based on traditional library methods. However, recent technological advancements have significantly altered the format of information sources, how people seek and access information, and how they learn. Moreover, competition from alternative information providers has emerged in the market. Furthermore, technology has transformed libraries into virtual spaces with enhanced capabilities.

The role of librarians has expanded in the 21st century due to the expectations of the setting. They are no longer just passive custodians of library materials, but are now expected to have knowledge of computer database and library automation systems.

Librarians today are required to act as information architects, setting up information on the Internet and controlling the flow of information within the organization. They are also expected to be infopreneurs, professionals who can analyze public database and electronic sources, conduct online searches, and synthesize, package or customize information for clients.

c) An Information Broker is a freelancing researcher who is hired by private corporations and consulting firms.

Get quality help now
Prof. Finch
Prof. Finch
checked Verified writer

Proficient in: Information

star star star star 4.7 (346)

“ This writer never make an mistake for me always deliver long before due date. Am telling you man this writer is absolutely the best. ”

avatar avatar avatar
+84 relevant experts are online
Hire writer

d) A Data Manager is a worker who specializes in managing data for software developers.

e) A Knowledge Navigator is a personal aide who helps users identify suitable websites and obtains information from the web.

f) A Webmaster is a facilitator for individuals seeking and gathering knowledge.

g) An Information Specialist is an expert in organizing and retrieving information, known as the "ultimate search engine."

In order to meet the demands of new developments and expectations, library instruction needs to revamp its curriculum. Now, librarians are required to have knowledge in areas such as basic computing, automated information management, design and implementation of distributed information methods, web site exploration, and network management.

Get to Know The Price Estimate For Your Paper
Topic
Number of pages
Email Invalid email

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy. We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

"You must agree to out terms of services and privacy policy"
Write my paper

You won’t be charged yet!

Librarians must continuously adapt and anticipate changes in their field, or else private information providers will take over the librarian's role.

At present, it is important for them to take a leading role in system design and actively contribute to the development of information services products, such as GOPHER and other internet products. Instead of just dealing with the final information service products, they should be engaged in their creation. As a result, this revision of the program is based on ICT and interdisciplinary principles, with connections to other fields like IT and computer applications. The objectives of the courses in this program are as follows: 1. 2. 3.

The program's objective is to equip students for careers in information management, customized library operations, and related fields. It seeks to give students a comprehensive understanding of information flow and effective methods for managing organizational knowledge. The program also emphasizes the acquisition of skills and techniques for accessing information. Ultimately, it aims to produce graduates who are well-informed about current information and technology trends, capable of identifying, analyzing, and evaluating the information needs of different groups, and making informed decisions to meet those needs.

Admission Requirements:

  1. Applicants must have completed at least three (3) units in logic and algorithms, as well as three (3) units in a basic computer course.
  2. Six (6) units in basic library science courses are also required for admission.
  3. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.0 is necessary for consideration.

Retention Policies:

  1. To remain in good standing, students must maintain a grade point average of 2.0 per semester. Failure to do so will result in probationary status during the following semester, contingent upon improving their GPA.
  2. The maximum duration of enrollment is five (5) years from the students' initial registration.

MASTER IN INFORMATION AND LIBRARY SYSTEMS (MILS) (LIST OF COURSES BY SEMESTER) First Year, First Semester Course No. Course Title Units Lec. Hrs/Wk Lab Total Prerequisite(s) Background in Foundation of Libraries, Info Mgt, Info Organization & Servicing, and their equivalent Same None None ILS 210 Collection Development 3 2 3 5 ILS 220 Specialization Course 1 Specialization Course 2 Information Organization, Storage, Retrieval and Presentation 3 3 3 12

1

3

9

6

0

0

Total First Year, Second Semester Course No. Course Title Units Lec.

Hrs/Wk Lab Total Prerequisite(s) Background in Foundation of Libraries, Info Mgt, Info Organization & Servicing, and their equivalent Same None None ILS 230 Information Products and Services 3 1 6 7 ILS 240 Specialization Course 3 Elective 1 Information Preservation and Conservation 3 3 3 12 2 3 3 9 3 0 0 9 5 3 3 18 Total Second Year, First Semester Course No. Elective 2 ILS 399 Compre Total 9 Course Title Thesis Writing Units 3 6 Lec. 3 Hrs/Wk Lab Total 0 3 Prerequisite(s) None None All core and specialization courses Second Year, Second Semester Course No.

The text below is a summary of the ILS 399 Course. It includes information on the Course Title, Total Units, Residency Hours per Week, Lecture Hours, Residency/Graduation Requirements, and Prerequisite(s). The course consists of various Core Courses and Specialization choices, as well as a Comprehensive Examination and Elective options.

Thesis LS 299 (ILS 399) Sub-Total Grand Total 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 none none none none 21 none none none 0 3 none none none none none none 3 3 3 3 12 3 3 3 9 Present (Units) Proposed (Units) 3 3 3 3 3 9 6 6 36 6 6 6 33 CATALOGUE OF COURSES PRE-ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS LOGIC AND ALGORITHM Study of logic and algorithms used in programs. Introduction in preparing pseudo-codes; development and design of algorithms.

Credit Prerequisite: 3 units: none

INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING

Basic computer concepts; introduction to programming language like Pascal—simple data types, looping, functions and procedures, arrays, user-defined data types, text files and records. Includes object-oriented programming.

Credit Prerequisite : 3 units : none FOUNDATION OF LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT (or its equivalent.) Comparative study of various libraries, documentation centers, information centers, and other information providers with an emphasis on their differing information requirements. Covers legal concerns in information management. Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (3 hrs lec) : none INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION ORGANIZATION AND SERVICING (or its equivalent) Fundamental principles in collection development, cataloging and classification, indexing/ abstracting, and the creation of thesauri.

The text discusses the principles, procedures, and strategies of reference service. Prerequisites for this course are 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) and there are no credit prerequisites. It is a core course under ILS 210 COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT, which focuses on the principles and procedures involved in building library collections. This includes topics such as networked collection development, collection evaluation, collection maintenance in an automated library setting, and virtual libraries.

3 units (2 hours lecture; 3 hours lab): This course requires a background in Foundation of Libraries, Information Management, Information Organization and Servicing, or an equivalent conservative and ILS 220 INFORMATION ORGANIZATION, STORAGE, RETRIEVAL AND PRESENTATION. Topics covered include the usage of standard catalog and classification systems for information sources, including the MARC format for entering cataloguing data into machine-readable files, as well as indexing and abstracting.

Credit Prerequisite: 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab): Background in Foundation of Libraries, Information Management, Information Organization and Servicing, or its equivalent ILS 230 INFORMATION PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Designing of value-added and customized information packaging and servicing.

This course includes electronic information tools such as online information systems (machine readable bibliographic databases) and networking. The credit prerequisite is 3 units (1 hour of lecture and 6 hours of lab) with a background in Foundation of Libraries, Information Management, Information Organization and Servicing, or its Equivalent. The course ILS 240 focuses on the preservation and conservation of information sources, including the management of digital and non-digital resources. It covers topics like authentication, integrity, version control, legacy control, storage, personal privacy, and the right of access.

Conservation of information between different mediums involves converting data formats and digitization. This includes adhering to standards for the quality of physical materials and digital surrogates. To take this course, students must have completed 3 units (2 hours of lectures and 3 hours of labs) in Foundation of Libraries, Information Management, Information Organization and Servicing, or an equivalent course. This course focuses on retrieval and representation of information and covers concepts and methods for designing, managing, creating, and evaluating multimedia databases. It also addresses organizing and retrieving digital multimedia.

The text discusses various issues related to image and sound capture storage and storage standards, display, networking, standards, copyright, and vocabulary control. It also reviews the relevant digital technology. This course requires a credit prerequisite of ILS 251 and is worth 3 units (1 hour lecture and 6 hours lab). The course focuses on the design and presentation of digital information. It explores the use of graphics, animation, sound, visualization software, and hypermedia to present information to the user. The goal is to enhance comprehension and analysis of complex information by incorporating visualization techniques into human-computer interfaces.

Credit Prerequisite: 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none
ILS 252 LIBRARY AND INFORMATION DATA SYSTEMS - This course focuses on the development of library networks at various levels, including local, state, regional, and national. It covers organization, administration, services, funding, and legislation.
Credit Prerequisite: 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none
ILS 253 ORGANIZATION OF INFORMATION AND METADATA - This course teaches the processing of information and metadata using standard tools like cataloging and classification, indexing and abstracting. It also includes instruction on using Dublin Core and other application software.

Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (1hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none ILS 254 COGNITIVE APPROACHES TO INFORMATION Individual information behavior and use and their relation to information system design. Basics of cognitive psychology applied to information systems. Methods of cognitive psychology. Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (3 hrs lec) : none ILS 255 GROUP AND ORGANIZATIONAL APPROACHES TO INFORMATION SYSTEM USE The transmission and use of information within groups such has work groups and organizations; information flows in organizations.

The text discusses various topics related to organizations and information processes, including computer-assisted cooperative work, influencing strategies, adoption of innovation, and the uses of information for coordination and communication within organizations.

The course ILS 256 focuses on privacy, security, and cryptography. It covers policy and technical issues related to ensuring the accuracy and privacy of information. The course also explores encoding and decoding techniques such as public and private key encryption. Additionally, it surveys security problems in a networked information environment including viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and Internet address spoofing.

Credit Prerequisite: 3 units (2 hrs lec; 3 hrs lab) - none

INFORMATION RESOURCE SYSTEM ILS 260 INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

Introduces concepts and practice associated with the creation, utilization and evaluation of information delivery. Includes the basics of digitizing and manipulating text, sound and video/still image.

Credit Prerequisite ILS 261: 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) - none

INTRODUCTION TO DATABASE MANAGEMENT

Introduction to principles of information design and to the use of database management systems.

Design considerations and evaluation, including data modeling and implementation planning, as well as the characteristics and evaluation of both general and specialized database management systems. The design, implementation, and evaluation of a database using commercial database management software are also included.

Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none ILS 262 ANALYSIS OF INFORMATION ORGANIZATIONS AND SYSTEM Project planning and scheduling, process design, project management and coordination; analysis of information needs specification of system requirements, analysis of alternatives, design of alternatives; quantitative methods and tools for analysis and decision-making; document management; design, implementation, and evaluation of a project.

To enroll in this credit course, you need to have finished a prerequisite that includes 3 units. This prerequisite involves attending 1 hour of lectures and completing 6 hours of lab work. Although there are no specific requirements for the course, it covers several subjects including authoring tool usage, database management systems, and information system implementation. The main focus of the course is on creating informational or instructional resource products using authoring tools. Additionally, it includes tasks such as generating specifications based on user requirements, designing and implementing systems, evaluating and testing them, as well as developing documentation.

Credit Prerequisite ILS 264 : 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none DESIGN OF INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS

Focuses on interactive system design methods in common use covering such topics as interactive design, iterative design, usability analysis, prototyping and evaluation, mental models, conceptual models, interaction styles, the use of guidelines; normative, descriptive, and formative approaches to work analysis; modeling user’s activities, defining and validating requirements, presenting interactive system designs, and the theoretical foundations underlying the design of interactive systems.

Credit : 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) Prerequisite ILS 265 : none

KNOWLEDGE -BASE SYSTEMS Introduces the concepts, principles and techniques of knowledge base systems, with a focus on implementation of a working expert system. Presents the expert system development life cycle with a focus on analysis and conceptual modeling techniques. Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none

ILS 266 MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM Study of management and use of information for control, planning and decision-

This course focuses on the creation and utilization of database systems, with an emphasis on the computer-based approach. The credit prerequisite for this course is ILS 267, and it is equivalent to 3 units of coursework (1 hour lecture; 6 hours lab). The course "Information Users in Society" explores the impact of information and information systems on individuals and society as a whole. It examines how technology, practices, and artifacts shape the way people organize their work, interact with others, and interpret their experiences. The course also addresses social issues related to the design and management of information systems, including assessing user needs, involving users in system design, and studying human-computer interaction and computer-mediated work and communication.

Use of law and other policies to balance the tension between the unrestricted flow and restriction of information. Credit Prerequisite: 3 units (2 hrs lec; 3 hrs lab): none USER INTERFACE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT User interface design and human-computer interaction. Analysis of different design options; tools and techniques for design and development; human computer interaction; approaches for assessing and evaluating interface quality. Credit Prerequisite: 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab): none ILS 268 APPLICATION AREAS.

ILS 270 is an introductory course that focuses on networked applications and computing. The course covers the application of networked computers in various areas such as social, educational, and information management. It aims to provide students with an understanding of the infrastructure that enables and restricts networked applications, as well as empower them to effectively use these technologies in their personal and professional lives. Additionally, the course also covers related policy, legal, economic, and industry issues. This course is worth 3 units and has no prerequisite requirements. It consists of 1 hour of lecture and 6 hours of lab work.

The course ILS 271, titled "Design of Library Automation System", focuses on designing computer software for library automation. This includes acquisitions, serials, circulation systems, and library catalogs. Students will work collaboratively to develop a library automation software package, going through the phases of functional specifications, design, programming, testing, and system implementation. This course requires a prerequisite of 3 units (1 hour lecture and 6 hours lab) and has no specific prerequisites. Another related course is ILS 272, titled "Application Software Packages", which compares the use and different structures, formats, and styles of software for various library operations.

Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none ILS 273 HUMAN-COMPUTER INTERACTION This course focuses on the design and development of human-computer interfaces. It covers topics such as gathering design information through task analysis techniques, iterative design using prototyping, and usability testing. It also explores the theoretical foundations of HCI and cognitive modeling of user interactions. The course emphasizes integrating HCI techniques into the software development life cycle and using user constraints to create new interaction designs.

Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none

ILS 275 LIBRARY AND INFORMATION DATABASE SYSTEMS Concepts and database structure, design and applications in library and information services. Includes case studies and database projects in real life situations.

Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none ILS 276 DISTRIBUTED COMPUTING APPLICATIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE Technical side of distributed computing, including complexity management, concurrency, protocols, security, performance, networking, and middleware.

3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none

ILS 277 DESIGN OF LIBRARY SERVICES

The organization and administration of library services and their place in the institutions and communities they serve. Governance, collections and building, planning, organizing, staffing, budgeting, controlling in library and information system; and includes digital libraries and economic aspects.

Credit Prerequisite : 3 units (1 hr lec; 6 hrs lab) : none.

Updated: Feb 16, 2024
Cite this page

Revamping MLS Curriculum for the 21st Century Librarian. (2016, Oct 11). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/thesis-documentation-of-library-system-essay

Revamping MLS Curriculum for the 21st Century Librarian essay
Live chat  with support 24/7

👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!

Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.

get help with your assignment