| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-18 | 2023-05-05 |
Program Overview
This module provides students with a broad appreciation of the range of digital library services within contemporary contexts and to encourage a critical engagement with the roles and purpose of these services. It examines and evaluates both the cultural and technical elements which contribute to these services.
The module encourages students to evaluate critically the strategic application of a range of digital library initiatives as well as to develop and evaluate strategies for the planning and implementation of a digital library service. It examines how we identify and critically appraise user requirements for building and engaging diverse communities using digital library technologies. The module focuses on the application of current technologies for the dissemination of information or information services in response to user requirements, and we also consider how to determine and implement methods of evaluation for digital library services.
Program Outline
The module covers a wide variety of different topics including the development of digital libraries from early stages of ‘library automation’ to the present day.
Considerable focus is placed, throughout the topics, on profiling users and user communities and understanding their needs in respect of digital services, including the building and managing of effective online communities.
The taught content also focuses on the strategies and platforms which can be used to provide digital services, how services monitor and understand performance (and particularly measure impact) and also addresses key legal and ethical issues around privacy, security, copyright, confidentiality and data protection.
Disclaimer
The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our
course and module disclaimer
for more information.Learning Methods
You will learn via our online virtual learning environment,
CampusMoodle
which provides you with live lectures via zoom and course materials, allowing you to study from any location.The module is delivered in 12 blocks online with topic texts, recorded lectures, activities and online discussion forums. There is, additionally, a programme of live online classes, lasting approximately one hour, each week. Approximately 30 students are in most cohorts undertaking the module.
Assessment
This module is assessed via a written assessment, including essay.
Independent Study
Students are expected to engage in the independent study activities set for each topic, sharing their thoughts and findings on these tasks on the discussion forum.
Staff Delivering on This Course
The module is delivered by university staff but recorded guest lectures are included and use is made of recordings of external experts from the profession to inform the discussion of the topics.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
The Inclusion Centre
Online Learning & Support
All online learning students, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
CampusMoodle
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
Study Skills Support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
University Library
