Online document retrieval system education for undergraduates: rationale, content and observations
Abstract
A course in basic information retrieval principles and use of online document retrieval systems is a curriculum requirement for undergraduate computer science students at Stockton State College in New Jersey. A combination of theory‐oriented lectures and online search sessions using DIALOG enables students to observe course principles in action. An undergraduate course of this type differs significantly in content from those normally offered in graduate library schools in one primary area; while most students in graduate library schools are presumably aware of the functions and issues of index languages and library operations, undergraduate computer science students need to be taught the basics of these subjects. A corequisite course insures student background in the design requirements of deterministic data retrieval systems. This background provides a useful framework in which to explore index language limitations and design features of document retrieval systems which must provide multiple access points. The course has been enthusiastically received as evidenced by student participation, anonymous student evaluations and requests for the development of subsequent courses designed to prepare students for careers in the online information retrieval service environment.
Citation
Lowry, G.R. (1980), "Online document retrieval system education for undergraduates: rationale, content and observations", Online Review, Vol. 4 No. 4, pp. 349-356. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb024040
Publisher
:MCB UP Ltd
Copyright © 1980, MCB UP Limited