LAR5090

Computers in information transfer

F Morrissey

8 points
* 3 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton
* Taught concurrently with LAR4002

Objectives At the completion of this subject students should have an appreciation of computer capabilities and applications in librarianship, information management and records management; an understanding of computer hardware (including input, output and storage devices); a knowledge of software types (including word processing, spreadsheets, information retrieval, database management systems, telecommunications software and World Wide Web); an understanding of the systems development lifecycle; the ability to evaluate and select systems appropriate to a particular organisation's needs; and experience in database creation and management.

Synopsis This subject is designed to give students an understanding of computers and how they work in information processing and transfer. The subject covers computer hardware, input, output and storage devices; the capabilities of the computer; software and the basics of systems development and computer programming; information retrieval and database management packages; and telecommunication services. Evaluation of records management, information management and library packages is also covered. Practical sessions involve the use of personal computers, word processing, electronic mail, AARNet/ Internet and database development.

Assessment Test: 20%
* Individual database assignment: 30%
* Class paper: 10%
* Automation report: 30%
* Practical exercises: 10%

Recommended texts

Rowley J The basis of information systems 2nd edn, Library Association, 1996