Information Tools, INLS 461

Spring 2008

Course Catalog Description:

INLS 461 Information Tools (3 hours). Tools and concepts for information use. Information literacy, microcomputer use and maintenance, microcomputer applications, and networked information services.

Prerequisite:

None, but students are expected to have a basic familiarity with using computers and applications.

Many of the assignments for this course use Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office applications.  Students may try to complete the assignments using different platforms, but I might not be able to offer much support using other platforms.

Course Objectives:

To more effectively utilize information products and services by:

1. Understanding the functions and management of microcomputers
2. Interacting with local and networked information collections
3. Preparing computer-based content

Readings:

Web Design in a Nutshell, 3rd Edition is available at Student Stores. This book is also available for free to UNC students through Safari Books Online. All other readings can be accessed via the internet. Readings will be assigned for each class day. Students should complete readings before the scheduled class, and review afterwards as needed.

Course Policies:

You are encouraged and expected to participate in class discussions. You are also expected to attend every class and arrive at each class promptly.

Assignments must be turned in by midnight on the date they are due, unless otherwise noted on the class schedule/calendar. Assignments should be uploaded to your password protected directory on ISIS, and you should send me an email when you are ready for an assignment too be evaluated.

Be sure you turn in your assignments on time. Late assignments will be downgraded 10% per day they are late.

If there is something you don't understand, ask a question. If you don't want to ask during class, feel free to contact me outside of class.

To get the most out of this class, you should read the assigned reading prior to that day’s class.

You are expected to respect and follow the UNC Honor Code. Please refresh your memory about the honor system by consulting the information found at: http://honor.unc.edu/.

Evaluation:

Evaluation for the course is based on three items:

1. Eight completed short assignments, as described on the Assignments Page. (75 points total)
2. Final exam. 20 points.
3. Class preparedness and participation. Specifically, contributions to class learning (being present is the first step). 5 points

Final grades are not negotiable. Doing extra work to improve a final grade is not an option because that would not be fair to other students in the course. If you wish to earn a good grade, work hard from the beginning of the semester.

Changes to the Syllabus

This is a living document, I reserve the right to make changes any time during the semester.

Acknowledgment

Thank you to Dr. Ron Bergquist, Serena Fenton, and all other prior instructors of INLS 461 and INLS 261 This course is based on their contributions.