Bachelor of Science in Information Science
IST-468 Community Informatics
A survey of key concepts in the field of Community Informatics, which focuses on how communities access, learn, and apply information and communications technologies (ICTs). Practical studies in this area consider how social, cultural, political, and economic factors influence the adoption and use of ICTs among members of specific communities. This course introduces students to key concerns in community informatics, including, among other things, digital literacy, digital divide issues (e.g, access, skills, and cultural divides), the role of ICTs in cultural heritage, and community development using ICTs. Learning experiences in this course will employ literature-based discussion and experiential learning at case sites using relevant ICTs, including public libraries.
Key topics covered include:
- Technology support and learning in libraries and other community-based learning settings.
- The digital divide/digital inequality, and how to address it through community organizing and engagement
- How local communities utilize technology to participate in democratic processes.
Course content, assignments, and discussions prepare librarians and information professionals to make a difference in their communities.