Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Increasingly libraries and information centres are providing services, collections, products and programs in a hybrid environment. The 'online branch library' or 'online information centre' is an emerging concept that encompasses the provision of library and information services in a web environment. As a professional, you will be involved in the development and maintenance of these online branches. This unit will introduce you to a range of concepts that will underpin your practice in this space, and allow you to develop the skills you will need to succeed as an information professional in this dynamic space.

Aims

The primary aim of this unit is to provide a capstone experience that will allow you to draw on the knowledge and skills you have gained throughout your course. The unit focuses on the development of your skills and knowledge in web service delivery. You will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts and to reflect on how your studies have prepared you for this type of work. Through practical exercises, lectures, workshops and guest speakers, you will develop an introductory knowledge of web content management as it applies to organisations today. You will also be introduced to current trends and issues in web service delivery. You will develop an appreciation of the tasks, practices, principles and policies required for dynamic forms of web architecture, and you will begin to explore the development of skills required to work with and manage content management systems.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, you should be able to demonstrate
1. The ability to design and develop web resources, prepare HTML code using a text editor, and undertake content management tasks. (GC1, GC3, GC5)
2. The ability to understand and critically discuss a range of issues, trends, tasks, practices principles and policies related to web content management and web service development more broadly (GC1, GC2, GC3, GC4, GC5, GC6, GC7)
3. Effective eCommunication, eCollaboration, and eInvestigation skills, as well as written and oral communication skills, through participation in online and in-class activities and the development of formal reports and web content (GC1, GC3, GC5)
4. The capability to work independently and within a team environment that is similar to a real world work experience (GC5)

Key: Graduate Capabilities
GC1 - Knowledge and Skills
GC2 - Critical and Creative Thinking
GC3 - Communication
GC4 - Lifelong Learning
GC5 - Independence and Collaboration
GC6 - Social and Ethical Responsibility
GC7 - Leadership and Change

Content

This unit will cover key topics in web service design and delivery, including:
· Online library and information centres: the virtual branch
· Library Management Systems and the web
· Introduction to HTML and CSS
· Design and usability
· Web content management
o Governance, strategy and best practice
o Managing content
o Content Management Systems
· Evaluating and improving websites
· The future for web technology

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

The unit is offered in a blended delivery mode. The unit can be undertaken internally, externally, or a combination of both. You are encouraged to move between the different modes of delivery as you need throughout the semester. The unit incorporates a range of learning activities designed to provide a quality learning experience regardless of the learning mode.

Unit materials and readings will introduce you to a range of topics in web service design and delivery. Guest lecturers will discuss the roles they play as information professionals in the virtual branch space. Reflective practice is an integral component of this unit and will allow you to develop as an independent learner. You are expected to participate in the learning experience by attending classes (in person, or by downloading materials), completing asynchronous online learning activities, and undertaking a variety of reading.

Assessment

You will submit your written assessments electronically - details will be announced during the lectures. You are expected to work on the assignments independently, but you can ask for assistance from the teaching staff.Summative feedback will be provided through written comments on the Criterion Referenced Assessment grid.

Assessment name: Project (applied)
Description: Students will complete a series of markup and content management tasks.
Relates to objectives: 1, 3, 4
Weight: 50%
Internal or external: External
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 5 to 12

Assessment name: Multimedia presentation
Description: Students will complete an issues-based, critical multimedia presentation on a topic to be negotiated with the Unit Coordinator.
Relates to objectives: 2, 3, 4
Weight: 50%
Internal or external: External
Group or individual: Group
Due date: Week 14

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

No extraordinary charges or costs are associated with the requirements for this unit.

Required text
There is no textbook for this unit. Please note that you will be expected to read widely. Recent articles of interest to the subject will be highlighted weekly.

Recommended reading
Recent articles will be brought to your attention via the unit's Blackboard site. Articles that are seminal will also be provided on the Blackboard site.

Risk assessment statement

There are no unusual health or safety risks associated with this unit. It is your responsibility to familiarise yourself with the Health and Safety policies and procedures applicable within FIT campus areas and laboratories.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 24-Oct-2012