Office phone: (562) 938-4708
Office fax: (562) 938-4117

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This one-unit course teaches basic college-level research skills necessary for effective use of traditional and new information resources. Emphasis is placed on research strategies and evaluation of information resources. The course covers different levels, types, and formats of information, including the Internet.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:
1. Describe the physical organization of a library and different types of library services and resources.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of classification systems, the Library of Congress Subject Headings, and the concept of controlled vocabulary.
3. Search the library's online catalog and interpret a bibliographic record.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of discipline-specific reference sources and how to use them.
5. Demonstrate an ability to use indexes of different types and formats.
6. Differentiate between different protocols and search features of the Internet.
7. Document sources adhering to MLA style.
8. Evaluate information sources according to specific criteria.
9. Apply critical-thinking skills to construct effective research methods, including defining a topic, mapping a search strategy, and using appropriate resources.

COURSE ORGANIZATION

The course is divided into nine modules. Each module corresponds to two classroom hours in the college semester. The modules are as follows:

1. Library arrangement and online catalog
2. Classification systems and Library of Congress Subject Headings
3. Introduction to the research process
4. Information evaluation and citation
5. Indexes
6. Reference sources
7. Electronic databases
8. Introduction to the Internet
9. Review. Bibliography
We will use the Internet and will visit various web sites throughout the course. The links were thoroughly checked at the beginning of the course; however, due to the volatility of the Web environment, please inform the instructor of non-valid links.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

1. Attendance is required.
2. Class participation is required.
3. Punctuality is essential. I will not repeat lessons already covered in classes and missed by you because of tardiness or absences.
4. Assignments to be completed:
a. Eight assignments to be completed and turned in on the due date.
b. A bibliography to be completed and turned in on the due date.
Check the class schedule for the due date of each assignment.

READINGS

Students are required to read the study guides for each module. Visits to the websites listed on the course related page are recommended.

Recommended readings:

Mann, Thomas. The Oxford Guide to Library Research. New York: Oxford University
Press, 1998.
Gibaldi, Joseph. MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. 5th ed. New York:
The Modern Language Association of America, 1999.

GRADING

Eight written assignments: 11 pts. each x 8 = 88 points

Bibliography: 12 points

Total 100 points

Note: Students' works will be graded based on the quality of content and the aesthetic of presentation. Points will be deducted for careless work.

Grading scale:

A 90 - 100

B 80 - 89

C 70 - 79

D 60 - 69

F below 60

Students have the option to choose between a credit/no credit or a letter grade course. Please let your instructor of your preference at the beginning of the course. With the credit/no credit option, students must complete and submit all eight graded assignments and the bibliography on or before the end of the course.

CLASS DROP

It is the student's responsibility to officially drop units in order to receive a refund.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Students with disabilities that may interfere with your academic achievement, you may contact Disabled Student Services at 562-938-4558. Disabled Student Services is located in Room L102 at LAC campus, and Room GG100 at PCC campus.