COURSE DESCRIPTION

This half-unit course provides a hands-on introduction to the Web databases and their structures. The course emphasizes evaluation of information, search strategies, and search techniques for an effective information retrieval in the Web environment.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

At the completion of the course, students should be able to:

1. Identify Netscape browser interface components in order to navigate the Web.
2. Recognize fields in any Web database in order to perform customized searches.
3. Examine the structure of Web databases in order to apply the principles of online search techniques across Web databases.
4. Compose a search statement using Boolean operators, parentheses, and quotations marks in order to optimize search results.
5. Critically evaluate online periodical articles according to specific criteria in order to collect reliable and relevant information.
6. Cite online periodical articles according to MLA style in order to correctly document online sources used.
7. Differentiate between different operators in a Boolean search in order to perform complex combined searches.
8. Capture a Web document (copy/paste, email, save, print) in order to manage collected information for future use.

COURSE ORGANIZATION

The course is divided into six modules. Each module corresponds to one week (1.5 classroom hours) in the college semester. The modules are as follows:

1. Introduction ­ Netscape browser - Email
2. ProQuest - Database structure ­ Boolean search ­ Search statement
3. NewsBank - Facts on File
4. Gale Literature Resource Center
5. Infotrac Heath Reference ­ College Source ­ Books in Print
6. Evaluation and citation of online periodical articles

We will use the above listed electronic databases throughout the course. A list of passwords will be given to students on the first day of class.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Attendance is required.
Class participation is required.
Punctuality is essential. I will not repeat lessons already covered in classes, and missed by you because of tardiness or absences.
Assignments to be completed:
Six assignments to be completed and turned in on due date.
Check the class schedule for the due date of each assignment.

READINGS

There is no reading requirement for this class. There will be instructional materials for each module to be distributed to students in-class.

GRADING

This is a credit/no credit course. To receive credit for this course, you must complete and submit all six graded assignments at or before the end of the course.