Educational Goals

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The Southern Miss School of Library and Information Science is committed to preparing its students for careers as library and information science professionals by offering a curriculum that is grounded in the knowledge and skill areas of library and information science as well as focused on the diverse challenges of the future. The program embraces the philosophy that library and other information professionals must be prepared to participate in leadership roles for their profession and communities of service, be able to adapt to dynamic work environments, and engage in life-long learning.

Goal 1. Knowledge of and commitment to the foundational principles of library and information science

To foster and promote among master's degree candidates a knowledge of and commitment to ethical practices on the part of library and information professionals.

• • Objective: Understand and apply ALA core
  • Objective: Develop balanced collection
  • Objective: Cultivate a knowledge of professional organizations and development
  • Objective: Demonstrate an understanding of instructional practices

Goal 2. Provide experiences grounded in real-world applications

Master's degree candidates exhibit understanding of the profession by successfully demonstrating skills and knowledge through assessments.

• • Objective: Demonstrate the role of the organization and of the information professional in the information-seeking process.
  • Objective: Demonstrate the ability to serve a diverse community in an ever-changing
  • Objective: Demonstrate ability to catalog a variety of materials so that they are readily accessible to patrons served by a library or information
  • Objective: Demonstrate the value of professional and personal
  • Objective: Demonstrate a knowledge of operations (budgets, grants, policies, ) in an information setting.

Goal 3. Engagement in research

Master's degree candidates demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scholarly LIS research and demonstrate the ability to identify and apply appropriate research methodology to specific problems.

• • Objective: Engage with LIS literature through the evaluation of scholarship and construction of a literature review.
  • Objective: Demonstrate an understanding of the process and role of research in the field of library and information science through the completion of an original research project and

Goal 4. Technical competency

Candidates develop an awareness of the use of technology in information settings and participate in technology applications to advance their skills and experiences.

• • Objective: Apply appropriate technology tools to address a variety of information
  • Objective: Create an e-portfolio showcasing student artifacts and their understanding of the application in the profession.