57104 Information and Knowledge Management Project Part A

Handbook description

This subject is core for the Master of Arts in Information and Knowledge Management. The subject involves the planning of a professional project that is aimed at integrating theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The project plan is implemented in Part B of the subject. A combination of learning frameworks is used (e.g. learning contracts, information project management, information consolidation) to enable the student to develop, with academic supervision, an individually tailored program or project.

Subject objectives/outcomes

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

1. identify an information problem
2. propose solutions to the problem based on the theoretical and professional literature
3. develop and apply criteria for determining the most appropriate solution
4. plan for the implementation of the preferred solution.

Contribution to graduate profile

The subject enables students to begin integrating their learning in information studies through the planning of a project designed to resolve an information problem encountered in a workplace. It encourages students to adopt a critical stance to the literature and to information practice. It provides students with strategies for engaging in critical reflection on their experiences and for managing a professional level project.

Teaching and learning strategies

Teaching and learning activities will be tailored to the needs of your project and the student group but will include seminars and presentations to peers. There are four compulsory classes (see class schedule) which you are expected to attend and prepare for. As you will be working independently on your project, you are expected to develop a professional relationship with your academic and professional supervisors and to maintain regular contact with them. You will also be expected to expand your networks of contacts and to develop a reflective approach to your project as it unfolds. UTSOnline will be used as a forum for the subject and to facilitate peer communication.

Content

This is determined in part by the nature of student projects but topics treated in class may include: the nature of reflective practice, use of literature to develop a conceptual framework for an information problem, project management, social and political dimensions of workplaces, and techniques of evaluation as well as information sharing and peer support.

Assessment

Assessment item 1: Project Proposal

Minimum requirements

Students are expected to read the subject outline to ensure they are familiar with the subject requirements. Since class discussion and participation in activities form an integral part of this subject, you are expected to attend, arrive punctually and actively participate in classes. If you experience difficulties meeting this requirement, please contact your lecturer. Students who have a reason for extended absence (e.g. illness) may be required to complete additional work to ensure they achieve the subject objectives.

Indicative references

These references relate to professional development and lifelong learning and to project management. References relevant to individual projects will be determined by each student in consultation with their supervisors. You are expected to read widely on topics relevant to your project.

Professional development and lifelong learning

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.

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.

Watson, L. 2003, Lifelong learning in Australia, University of Canberra, Canberra

Project management

Allan, B. 2004, Tools and techniques for today's ILS professionals, Facet Publishing, London

Andersen, E.S. et al, Goal directed project management: effective techniques and strategies, Kogan Page, London, 2004

Frame, J. Davidson, Managing projects in organizations: how to make the best use of time, techniques, and people, (3rd edition) Jossey-Bass, San Francisco, 2003

Polonsky, M.J. & Waller, D. Designing and managing a research project: a business student's guide, Sage Publications, Thousand Oaks, Calif.,2005

Watson, M., Managing smaller projects: a practical guide, Project Manager Today, Hook, 2002