This module has users consider how the methods and means used to find sources affect what information is and is not seen by unpacking the assumptions made by the researcher in keyword searches, as well as assumptions about how databases organize information. Users need to consider the language employed in queries as well as the affordances and constraints of different information discovery tools.
Type of Material:
Tutorial
Recommended Uses:
Watch the video as a pre-class activity, and discuss details in class.
Do the exercises in class or as assignments.
Technical Requirements:
Works in Windows browsers
Identify Major Learning Goals:
Information-finding is not neutral. Databases and archives are created and organized by humans who have particular views about the world. These views affect how information is organized, and how you find it.
The language you use to find information sources matters greatly. Each keyword can be unpacked, questioned, and modified into several alternate keywords. Keyword searching is iterative.
Understanding the processes by which you explore and access information is as important as your ability to analyze, evaluate, and use the information sources themselves.
Information discovery platforms can both facilitate and also sometimes obfuscate access to relevant information sources.
Target Student Population:
College General Ed, College Lower Division, College Upper Division, Graduate School, Professional
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
basic ICT skills
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The materials is clear and concise: from the introductory walk-through video to the exercises with prompts and valuable sources of information. The product was developed by academians, and has current, accurate information. The website can be used independently in a self-paced matter, but can also be integrated into class discussions in several academic domains. Links work and are appropriately labelled.
Concerns:
The summary could be developed, and the choice of key words isn't fully developed.
The resource requires using the included assignments.
Several links are behind a specific institution's proxy.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The learning objectives relfect main ICT literacy standards. The materials build progressively, and seque into more independent learning with probing questions to guide the learner. The few main concepts tie together well. The video is particularly practical as it provides a think-aloud process about searching strategies and key words. The exercises are lesson-ready, and the ICT concepts can be applied in several academic domains anfd daily life.
Concerns:
Prerequisite knowledge is not indicated. It is not very efficient, the included first of several practicals indicates it takes 20-30 minutes to complete.
The exercises are constructivist in nature so not everyone will gain complete or accurate knowledge. The opening page of the website is a bit misleading in terms of the learning to be experienced, including mentioning the future.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The website has a professional look and feel, while feeling very approachable and authentic. The exercises provide added resources are available for deeper understanding. the site can be navigated independently, and appears largely ADA-compliant.
Concerns:
The instructions for use could be clearer. The site is not engaging or interactive. The site might be usable without guidance by some, but others will need assistance. There is no help feature. The link to library databases requires a login/password to the university.
Creative Commons:
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