50190 Professional Information Project

Handbook description

This is the capstone subject in the Information Professional Strand. In this subject, students plan, carry out and evaluate a major professional information activity for a client. Concepts and techniques for the planning and management of projects to meet client needs are introduced at the beginning of the subject. A contract for the project is negotiated between the student, their client and their academic supervisor. Students are expected to work independently on their project, guided by consultations with their supervisor and discussion with a peer support group. This subject must be taken in the final semester of study.

Subject objectives/outcomes

At the completion of this subject, students are expected to be able to:

1. propose, implement and evaluate a solution to a professional information problem
2. manage a project
3. critically reflect on your learning and ethical information practice
4. assess your professional portfolio.

Contribution to graduate profile

This subject provides students with an opportunity to integrate theoretical and professional knowledge through the conduct and management of a major information project. It also provides an opportunity for students to further develop their independent learning and critical reflection abilities. Students have the opportunity to articulate the values of ethical information practice and demonstrate their commitment to justice and equality in information provision. It also provides an opportunity for students to present and assess their professional portfolio.

Teaching and learning strategies

While there are some classes for the purpose of reviewing and evaluating your progress in this subject, you are expected to work independently on your project, while at the same time, keeping your supervisor informed of your progress. After your plan of action is signed you should meet your supervisor (generally the subject coordinator) as required. A list of times will be posted on your supervisor's door or appointments can be made by email. You should also keep in close contact with your client throughout the semester. In addition to your supervisor, you will also have two advisers: one academic and one professional, to assist as well as provide feedback to you. There is also a discussion board in UTSOnline and peer networks will be set up in week one to help you assist and support each other.

Content

Project planning and management; preparation of an action plan; self-directed and lifelong learning; development of a proposal to solve an information or communication problem; project implementation; evaluation of process and product, peer networking. Review of literature on professional standards and processes; ethical information practice.

Assessment

Assessment item 1: Professional Activity (Note: you must obtain a Pass in this Assignment in order to be eligible to pass the subject)

Assessment item 2: Evaluative Report (2000 words - submit to your supervisor only)

Minimum requirements

In order to pass the subject, students must fulfil the additional requirements set out below.

1. Attendance in class in weeks 1, 4, 8 and 14

   The class in week 1 will cover an introduction to the subject, an understanding of information problems, independent learning processes, project management and developing your plan of action. Week 4 will provide an understanding of developing Proposals. The class in week 8 provides a review of progress before the mid-semester break, an opportunity for peer networking and will provide assistance with writing the Evaluative Report. The class in week 14 is intended to provide a wrap-up for the subject, to allow you to give us feedback on the subject, and to carry out your Portfolio Evaluation (see below). Should you experience difficulties meeting these attendance requirements, please contact your supervisor to make alternative arrangements.

2. Professional Portfolio Evaluation

   The Portfolio is the knowledge, skills, activities and outcomes which you will use to help you take the next step in your career. It provides you with an opportunity to evaluate what you have achieved, not just in the Professional Information Project subject, but in your course as a whole. You will have the opportunity to express your own thoughts about your knowledge, skills attitudes and values and to evaluate your achievements through participation in a structured group activity in the final class for this subject (approximately 2 hours).

3. Participation in a peer support network (throughout the semester)

   You are expected to form a peer (student) network, which will be an embryonic professional network, and to use this network or other alternatives for support and advice during the work on the project. The networks will be set up in class in week 1. There is a UTSOnline site set up to help you get started with your networking. You will also need to document these meetings and include the record as an appendix to your Evaluative Report.

Indicative references

These references relate only to professional development and lifelong learning. References relevant to individual projects will be determined by the student in consultation with the supervisor.

Booth, A. 2003, 'Bridging the research-practice gap? The role of evidence-based librarianship, New review of information and library research, vol. 9, pp.3-23.

Booth, A. and Brice, A. eds, 2004, Evidence based practice for information professionals: a handbook, Facet, London.

Candy, P. 1991, Self-direction for lifelong learning, Jossey-Bass, San Francisco.

Eraut, M. 1994, Developing professional knowledge and competence, Palmer Press, London.

Knowles, M. 1975, Self-directed learning: a guide for learners and teachers, Follett, Chicago.

Schon, D.A. 1991, Reflective practitioner: how professionals think in action, New edition, Arena, Aldershot.