Seton Hall University

College of Education and Human Services

Educational Studies Department

Professional Development Program

 

SYLLABUS

 

Course Number:

EDST 6216

 

Course Title:

Electronic Research Technologies

 

Course Description:

Advanced electronic research using computer-based and Internet accessible tools. Find, evaluate and assemble the best information for individual research interests and workplace needs. Develop research skills and information discrimination techniques using electronic resources. Includes research methodology, bibliography development, search strategies, electronic reference materials, online newspapers and periodicals, email, listservs, and newsgroups.

 

Rationale:

The Internet and the World Wide Web provide access to the world’s largest source of information. It changes rapidly and has had a dramatic impact on society. Students need to know how to negotiate new forms of communication to be able to access quality information in a variety of formats. To conduct valid, relevant research in today’s academic and workplace environments, students must be able to compare, contrast, and evaluate new electronic information resources. Students require teachers who can help them exploit the full potential of the Web effectively.

 

The course will include advanced searching techniques for a variety of electronic sources and discuss which are best suited to the information needs of their intended audiences. Ongoing discussions of ethical issues involving the ownership, management, and use of electronic information in contemporary society are incorporated in the course. Assignments will be tailored to reflect each student’s individual research interests. Consequently, the course will be of particular use in tandem with, or in preparation for, research classes and seminars.

 

Required Text:

Rodrigues, D & Rodrigues, R. (2003). The research paper: A guide to library and Internet research, 3rd ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, Inc.

Text Web Site:  http://cw.prenhall.com/bookbind/pubbooks/rodrigues2/

 

Course Objectives and Standards:

After completing this course the student will be able to:

·         Define what scholarly research is and is not;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 1.1.5.a

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.B

 

·         Distinguish between primary and secondary data sources;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 1.1.5.a

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.B, II.C, II.D, V.B

 

·         Describe professional ethical standards for using computer-based technologies for research, including privacy, plagiarism, and copyright issues;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.4.3, 3.4.4, 3.4.5

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, VI.A, VI.B, VI. C, VI.D, VI.E

 

·         Confidently and knowledgeably use a wide variety of computer-based technologies for scholarly research and for personal needs;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 2.0.7, 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.4, 2.3.1, 4.4.1

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  V.A, V.B, V. C, V.D

 

·         Construct an effective research strategy;

      AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  2.0.6, 3.1.1

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.B, IV.B

 

·         Use software tools to enhance research productivity, perform data analysis, and to communicate research findings;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 2.0.1, 2.0.2, 2.0.3, 2.0.5, 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.4, 2.2.1

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  II.C, V.A, V.C

 

·         Navigate and efficiently use the Internet for research;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 2.0.2, 2.0.6, 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.2.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, III.B, III.D, V.C

 

·         Evaluate sources and research on the Web for credibility and usefulness;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.3.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.4.4

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.C, V.B, V.C

 

·         Uncover the “hidden Internet” and use databases and other hard to find sources;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 2.0.2, 2.0.6, 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.2.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.C, V.B, V.C

 

·         Locate and use reference materials (dictionaries, almanacs, encyclopedias) on the Web;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  2.0.2, 2.0.6, 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.2.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.C, V.B, V.C

 

·         Find and explore library, government, and other important subject-based resources on the Web;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  2.0.2, 2.0.6, 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.2.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.C, V.B, V.C

 

·         Use online newspapers and periodicals;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 2.0.2, 2.0.6, 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.2.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.C, V.B, V.C

 

·         Use email, listservs, and newsgroups for effective communication and as research tools;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 2.0.2, 2.06, 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.2.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.B, V.B, V.C, V.D

 

·         Organize information and notes electronically;

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  2.0.2, 3.1.1, 3.1.2,

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, II.B, II.D

 

·         Identify and apply professional ethics, copyright, and fair use guidelines.

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  3.4.2, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B

 

Course Content:

Module 1

The Research Process in the Information Age

Introduction to the course

Developing an Electronic Research Portfolio/Handbook

            The characteristics of formal research - Team Project

            Selecting a research topic

            Computer-based tools for research

LAB :    Use the project sheet, Organizing a Research Project for this assignment.  http://pirate.shu.edu/~skeelero/EDST6216Organizing a research project.doc

           In this course we do not produce an entire research paper. However, you need a research problem to use for the other exercises. Develop a description of some research that you would like to conduct. Select a subject that interests you, one that you know something about already, and one that you can use at work or for future research assignments. You will use this topic to search for information as we progress through the course. The description should clearly state your research problem and include any limiting factors (such as grade level, age, etc.) you will place on your research. The reader of this project should be able to understand the intent of the research. Do not select a topic outside your field of study. This is not the time to discover why your cat wheezes unless you are in a medical/science field.

HOMEWORK:  Read R - Chapter 1. Develop a 1-2 page overview of Chapter 1 with personal insights. Review and complete the Organizing a Research Project sheet.

 

Module 2

Connecting Research and Technology

Introduction to the Internet

            Browsers

            Windows and the Internet

            Basic browser commands

            Edit/Find Commands

            Transferring text and pictures to Word

            Printing Web sites (locating page numbers)

            Bookmarks & Favorites

            Tracking Changes

            Documenting Print and Online Sources

LAB :          1.   Complete the project sheet, Tracking Changes Project for this assignment.

                  2.   Complete the Why Didn’t It Work Project sheet   

HOMEWORK:  Read R - Chapter 2. Develop a 1-2 page overview of Chapter 2 with personal insights. Review and complete the Why Didn’t It Work Project sheet and the Tracking Changes Project.

 

Module 3

Searching the Web

Domain names and Web addresses

Advantages of computer-based searches

Conceptualizing and formulating a search

            Boolean logic

            Keyword, directory, & MetaSearch engines

            Visual representation of research data – Creating charts, tables and graphics

Search engines

            Portals to search engines (www.findspot.com)

            Comparing search engines         

LAB:   Complete Search Engine, Directory, MetaSearch Engine Project (no sheet)

            Practice using keywords by searching the Web for 5 sites that compare or describe how search engines, metaserach engines, and directories work. Print out 1-3 pages of each article and put into your portfolio. Using the APA site (see Course Resources page) prepare a citation for each site in WORD.

Complete Key Words and Search Engines Project sheet.

Complete Comparison of Search Engines Project sheet

HOMEWORK: Read R - Chapter 3. Develop a 1-2 page overview of Chapter 3 with personal insights.

 

Module 4

Researching Library and Web

Accessing abstracts and full text online from remote computers

Research materials and the Internet

Introduction to Seton Hall University's resources

Interlibrary resources and loans

Library Resources on the Web

Libraries on the Web

            Using online library catalogs

Explanation of Annotated Bibliography (p. 94)

LAB:     Gather secondary data on your research topic by:

  1. Using SetonCat, Seton Hall University's online book catalog, do a subject search for books (try different keywords and combinations).  Select the 5 best resources from this SetonCat search and print the 5 abstracts.
  2. Select one online database in Walsh library and search for information on your topic in periodicals, dissertations, or unpublished resources.  Select the 5 best resources from this database search and print the 5 abstracts.
  3. Select the 5 best resources from each search (catalog and 1 database) and print out search results. On the top of each printed search, write your key words and the name of the index that you searched if they are not printed on the page.
  4. Complete the Books and Periodicals Comparison Project sheet.

HOMEWORK: Read R - Chapter 5. Develop a 1-2 page overview of Chapter 5 with personal insights.

 

Module 5

Annotated Bibliography

            Complete Project at Home

LAB:     Develop an annotated bibliography of 25 online resources that would contribute to the development of your research topic. Go to page 94 of your textbook for definition. Follow Web Bibliography Rubric under assessment on the course page.

1.       These sites should be relevant to your topic and further your research in this area.

2.       Each site should have a full APA citation followed by the annotation.

3.       Each annotation should consist of at least 3 sentences that explain and evaluate the site.

4.       The bibliography should be divided into relevant headings.

5.       25 sites = A if sites are noteworthy, cited correctly, and appropriately annotated.

Due with portfolio.

HOMEWORK: Read R - Chapter 4. Develop a 1-2 page overview of Chapter 4 with personal insights.

 

Module 6

Web Considerations for the Disabled

Traditional Library Resources on the Web

Journals and magazines

Vocabulary for locating library materials

Indexes and abstracts

Search the Web

LAB:     1. Create a table like the one below in a word processor. Using the Walsh Library Web site, search the Periodicals list to determine whether Walsh Library includes the following periodicals among its holdings:

 

Periodical

Available

Issues Available & Storage Format

Education Digest

 

 

NEA Reporter

 

 

Newsweek

 

 

AER Journal

 

 

Syllabus

 

 

Film News

 

 

Dept of State Bulletin

 

 

Zoo Tribune

 

 

Reading Teacher

 

 

Yankee Doodle

 

 

***Be sure you understand what the abbreviations in the periodicals list mean. They are explained at the site. Under your chart, define any abbreviations you use in your chart.

2. Complete the “Search the Web Project” sheet.

HOMEWORK: Read R - Chapter 6. Develop a 1-2 page overview of Chapter 6 with personal insights. Continue to work on projects.

 

Module 7

More Library Resources on the Web

Developing Annotated Bibliographies

Dictionaries

Almanacs

Encyclopedias

Newspapers

LAB:     1.  Comparison of 5 online newspapers (including at least two from outside North America) Project sheet.

2.  Dictionary, Encyclopedia, and Almanac Project sheet with citations.

HOMEWORK: Read R - Chapter 7. Develop a 1-2 page overview of Chapter 7 with personal insights. Begin to prepare Rationale for Using Computers for Research. Prepare a 2 page rationale for using computer- based technologies for research. Discuss both simple and sophisticated technologies that can assist you with research.

 

Module 8

Finding Resources in the Disciplines

Locating subject-area collections

Evaluating subject-area collections

Primary and Secondary Resources on the Web

Hidden Resources on the Web

Using Word to Publish

Developing a Database Brochure

LAB:     Complete Primary Resources on the Web Project sheet.

HOMEWORK: Read R - Chapter 8. Develop a 1-2 page overview of Chapter 8 with personal

Insights. Complete database brochure.

 

Module 9

Developing a Database Brochure

Complete Project at Home

LAB:     Develop a brochure for the class to teach them about a particular online database like Eric or ProQuest. You may use any format or visuals for the brochure. In your brochure: 1. explain the online resource, how will it help with research, what it contains and 2. explain how to use this resource (In particular, can it be used from a remote site?). You will be randomly assigned a database. Read the database instructions and FAQ's before you ask for help. Draft Due next meeting. Final version due with portfolio.

HOMEWORK: Continue to work on projects.

 

Module 10

Evaluating Sources

            Evaluation Questions

Initial Evaluation of Web sources

            Sources to Explore

            Hoaxes on the Web

            Email and Chain Letters

LAB:     Students review each other’s database brochures using rubric. Make changes to your brochure based on collaborative assessment.

Visit the site http://www2.widener.edu/Wolfgram-Memorial-Library/Webeval.htm

1.       Using the evaluation checklists page, complete the Web Site Evaluations Project sheet.

2.       There are many sites on the Web not appropriate for research. Locate 2 sites that masquerade as research or would be inappropriate for use in a research paper. Explain why they are not usable for research. Use the Inappropriate Web Sites Project sheet.

 

Module 11

E-mail, Newsgroups, Forums, and Listservs as Research Tools

            Using email for gathering data

            Mailing list basics

            Newsgroups for research

            Forums

LAB:     Complete Mailing Lists (Listservs)/Newsgroups Project sheet.       

            Complete the Email Project sheet.

HOMEWORK:  Complete Projects

 

Module 12

            Taking Notes and Organizing Information

            Documenting Sources

            Copyright and Fair Use

            Guidelines for electronic citations

            When to cite from sources?

            Appropriate citation style for your research

            Applying correct citation practices

            Adapting existing citation models to the source

            Summarizing and paraphrasing sources

Write Rationale

LAB:     1. Complete a 2 page rationale for using computer-based technologies for research. Discuss both simple and sophisticated technologies that can assist you with research.

2.  Complete the Finding People on the Web Project sheet.

3.  Complete Resource Citation Project sheet      

HOMEWORK:  Work to complete projects.

 

Module 13

Position Paper

Complete project at home

Select one of the articles distributed and discussed in class. What idea, concept, or theme struck you personally as most important in the article? What other ideas does the author discuss that you feel are worth discussing either pro or con? Write a 3 page position paper about an idea or topic discussed in this article. Position paper due with portfolio.

  1. Think deeply about the statements made by the writers. How do they relate to the past, the present, and the future?
  2. What are the possibilities for good or evil emerging from these ideas?
  3. What changes could they cause in our culture, mores, attitudes, everyday life, physical appearance, or??? You tell me.
  4. Use at least 2 online sources to support your position. Remember APA places a citation both in the text of the paper (See R, page 159 for internal citations) and a list of references at the end of the paper.

LAB:     Complete Position paper

           

Module 14

Develop Portfolios

Create Cover

Create Table of Contents

Number Pages – Arrange your projects in the order they are listed on the projects sheet.

LAB:  Complete portfolios due at end of class (No Exceptions).

 

Module 15

Meet with professor to review portfolio.

 

Instructional Strategies:

The course will be taught using lecture, class discussion, small group discussions, videotapes, case studies, computer lab experiences, and student presentations. Computer-based materials such as Web pages, computer software, and PowerPoint presentations will be used throughout the course.

Participation will be considered when students are graded. It is important to attend every class. There will be an online discussion group for the class, in which students may exchange questions and answers about the class work and assignments with one another and with the instructor. Participation in this group is required and will be considered when students are graded.

 

Assignments, Assessment, and Standards:

I.                     Electronic Research Portfolio (Loose leaf and disk-based) containing the following: (60 points).

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed: 1.1.3.b, 1.2.b, 2.0.1, 2.0.7, 2.1.1, 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.3.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.4.3, 3.4.4, 3.4.5, 4.4.1. 

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.C, IV.B, V.A, V.B, V.C.

      a)   Cover with a picture/graphic from the Web

      b)   Table of Contents

c)   A 2 page rationale for using computer-based technologies for research. Prepare a 2 page rationale for using                computer- based technologies for research. Discuss both simple and sophisticated technologies that can assist you with research.

d)   Topics critical to researchers using computer-based technologies. You will be organizing the projects assigned each night into a research portfolio. Must include an overview of each the chapters with personal insights followed by the projects prepared for each class. You may format the portfolio as if it were a teaching unit or training manual.

 

II.                  Brochure

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  1.1.1.b, 1.1.3.b, 1.1.5.a, 1.2.c, 2.0.1, 2.0.2, 2.0.3, 2.0.5, 2.0.6, 2.0.7, 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.2.1, 2.1.2, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.B, IV.B, V.A, V.C.

Develop a brochure for the class to teach them about a particular online database like Eric or ProQuest. You may use any format or visuals for the brochure. In your brochure: 1. explain the online resource, how will it help with research, what it contains; and 2. explain how to use this resource (In particular, can it be used from a remote site?). You will be randomly assigned a database. Read the database instructions and FAQ's before you ask for help. Draft Due Meeting 10.   Final version due with portfolio.

 

III.                Annotated (minimum of 3 sentences) Bibliography

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  1.1.3.a, 2.0.2, 2.0.5, 2.0.6, 2.1.1, 2.1.4, 2.3.1, 2.4.2, 3.4.2, 3.4.3

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, IV.B, V.A, V.C.

Develop an annotated bibliography of 25 online resources that would contribute to the development of your research topic. See Web Bibliography Rubric on the course page.

1.       These sites should be relevant to your topic and further your research in this area.

2.       Each site should have a full APA citation followed by the annotation.

3.       Each annotation should consist of at least 3 sentences that explain and evaluate the site.

4.       The bibliography should be divided into relevant headings.

5.       25 sites = A if sites are noteworthy, cited correctly, and appropriately annotated.

Due with portfolio.      

           

IV.                Position Paper

AECT/ECIT Standards addressed:  3.2.1, 3.3.1, 3.4.1, 3.4.4.

ISTE/NETS Foundation Standards addressed:  I.A, I.B, II.D, III.B, III.D, V.D, VI.A, VI.B, VI.C, VI.D, VI.E.

Select one of the articles distributed and discussed in class. What idea, concept, or theme struck you personally as most important in the article? What other ideas does the author discuss that you feel are worth discussing either pro or con? Write a 3 page position paper about an idea or topic discussed in this article. Position paper due with portfolio.

 

  1. Think deeply about the statements made by the writers. How do they relate to the past, the present, and the future?

 

  1. What are the possibilities for good or evil emerging from these ideas?

 

  1. What changes could they cause in our culture, mores, attitudes, everyday life, physical appearance, or??? You tell me.

 

  1. Use at least 2 online sources to support your position. Remember APA places a citation both in the text of the paper (See R, page 159 for internal citations) and a list of references at the end of the paper.

 

Course Recommendations:
  • Although you will sometimes be working on a team, you will be graded on the individual assignments that you submit.
  • Each student is expected to acquire and use an email account for this course.
  • Participation is an important component of this research technology experience. Unexcused absences will be penalized. Points will be deducted for non-participation in any of the team assignments. Please speak to me if some personal or work related problem prevents you from attending class or turning in an assignment on time. No, you can't go on vacation during the course.
  • Please no surfing, instant messaging, or emailing during class. There will be hands-on practice during class so you will have time to explore. Refrain from typing when we are having a discussion or lecture.
  • The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association should be followed. Your projects and citations must be word processed according to APA Style. Your textbook has many examples of APA format for citations. The hanging indent, used in the text, has been updated to a first line indent. Unless citing historical data, no references should be more than 5 years old. Any Web sources used should be updated frequently. Be sure to check when your sources were last updated.
  • As scholars, you are required to give credit to any sources you consult while preparing your assignments. All material from other sources, both quoted and paraphrased, must be cited in the text (if mentioned) as well as in your reference list. You may not use any portion of previously submitted research papers. Plagiarism in any form will not be tolerated.
  • Under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Civil Rights Restoration Act, students at Seton Hall University who have a disability may be eligible for accommodations in this course. Should a student require such accommodations, he or she MUST self identify at the Office for Disability Services (DSS) Room 67, Duffy Hall, provide documentation of said disability, and work with DSS to develop a plan for accommodation. The contact person is Mrs. Linda Walter at 973 313-6003.

 

Determination of Grade:

I.          Electronic Research Portfolio                                                                  60%

II.                   Brochure                                                                                               15%

III.                  Annotated Bibliography                                                                          15%

IV.                Position Paper                                                                                       10%

                                                                                                                        _____

            Total                                                                                                    100%

 

Bibliography:

Ackermann, E. & Hartman, K. (2000). Internet & Web essentials: What you need to know. Wilsonville, OH: Franklin, Beedle & Associates.

 

Ackermann, E. & Hartman, K. (2000). Searching & researching on the Internet & the World Wide Web. (2nd Ed.). Wilsonville, OH: Franklin, Beedle & Associates.

 

Anderson, D.S. (2001). The Internet and Web design for teachers: A step-by-step guide to creating a virtual classroom. Addison-Wesley Educational Publishers, Inc.

 

Bates, M. E. (1996). The online deskbook: Online magazine’s essential desk reference for online & Internet searches. Online.

 

Borne, B. W. (1996). 100 research topic guides for students. Westport, CN: Greenwood Press.

 

Bradley, P. (2002). Internet power searching: The advanced manual, 2nd ed. NY: Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc.

 

   Browne, M.N. & Keeley, S.M. (2003). A Prentice Hall guide to evaluating online resources. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice Hall.

 

Bucher, K. T. (1994). Computers & technology in school library media centers. Worthington, OH: Linworth Publishing.

 

Burniske, R.W. (2000). Literacy in the cyberage. Arlington Heights, Illinois: SkyLight Training and Publishing, Inc.

  

Butler, J. (1998). Cybersearch: Research techniques in the electronic age. Viking Penguin.

  

Edckman, R., & Quandt, R. (1999). Technology and scholarly communication. University of California Press.

  

Edyburn, D. (1998). The electronic scholar: Enhancing research productivity with technology. Prentice- Hall.

 

Ertmer, P., Hruskocy, C., & Woods, D. (2000). Education on the Internet. The worldwide classroom: Access to people, resources, and curricular connections. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill Publishers

 

Farmer, L.S. (1991). Cooperative learning activities in the library media center. Englewood, CO: Libraries Unlimited.

 

Fecko, M. & Warwick, B. (1997). Electronic resources: Access & issues. U.K.: Bowker-Saur.

 

Fielden, N. (2001). Internet research: Theory and practice. McFarland & Co., Inc. Pub.

 

Groves, D., Finnegan, J, & Griffin, J. (2000). The Web page workbook. (2nd Ed.). Wilsonville, OH: Franklin, Beedle & Associates.

 

Hacker, D. (2000).  Research and documentation in the electronic age. Bedford/St. Martin’s.

  

Harmon, C. (1996). Using the Internet online services & CD-ROMs for writing research and term papers (Neal-Schuman Netguide series.) Neal Schuman Publishers.

 

Jay, M. E. & Jay, H. L. (1994). Computer lab – classroom connection: Linking content, thinking & writing. New York, NY: Neal-Schuman.