FIT5105 - Information access and use - 2019

This unit introduces students to the major categories of information resources in all media and how they are accessed through a variety of common user interfaces from anywhere in the world. The process of satisfying these needs through the reference interview and the application of skilled search strategies is explored. The ways that information resources are procured by libraries and e-repositories through purchase or licensing, and supplied to users on a cost-effective, efficient basis are examined. Access and authentication, intellectual property law and professional duty of care are described.

At the completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. implement decisions about applying organisational policies for reference and collection services, justify the principles of collection management strategies, and evaluate them;
2. manage networked access for users in the case of electronic resources;
3. develop information literacy programs; and
4. select the best source of knowledge for a practical information need.

Examination (2 hours): 50%; In-semester assessment: 50%

Minimum total expected workload equals 12 hours per week comprising:

1. Contact hours for on-campus students:
   • 2 hours of lectures
   • One 1-hour seminar
2. Study schedule for off-campus students:
   • Off-campus students generally do not attend lecture and tutorial sessions, however should plan to spend equivalent time working through the relevant resources and participating in discussion groups each week.
3. Additional requirements (all students):
   • A minimum of 9 hours independent study per week for completing tutorial and project work, private study and revision.

See also Unit timetable information

Library and information science