Goal IV: Theory and Praxis
Students have a critical grounding in theoretical perspectives that draw on research in LIS as well as other fields of knowledge, that inform their professional practices including research, organization, management, and access to information.
IV.a. Students will describe applications of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies in library and information science.
LIS 6026: Archives and Records Management
Research Paper: The Queer Case for Archives
By collecting and analyzing qualitative research sources regarding how LGBTQ+ archives came to be and how they operate, I was able to create this research paper that discusses the many factors that go into the administration and continued support of LGBTQ+ archival materials.
LIS 6271: Research Methods in Library and Information Science
Quantitative Research Summary and Critique
These two critiques analyze the research methodologies of the researchers and the effectiveness of how their research was conducted. The first focuses on a qualitative study regarding the influence of special collections interaction with undergraduate students through the use of student feedback, and the second is a quantitative study regarding the available literature about special collections libraries.
LIS 6711: Organization of Knowledge I
Research Paper: Cataloging LGBTQ+ Topics with relation to LCSH System
This research paper explores the history of LGBTQ+ classification structures and terms within the Library of Congress cataloging system, and exemplifies the challenging nature of cataloging sensitive topics in an objective and neutral manor. Through the research process, I was able to learn about the complicated nature of cataloging and how it can evolve over time by analyzing the LOC classifications for LGBTQ+ topics.
IV.b. Students will identify opportunities for research and develop plans for research in applied settings in library and information science.
LIS 6271: Research Methods in Library and Information Science
Recorded presentation of the above Research Proposal (found below)*
(*All individuals have agreed to their inclusion and likeness within this ePortfolio.)
After conducting a literature review with the two other group members, it became abundantly clear that there is a significant gap in available research regarding DEIA initiatives within special libraries. By creating this research proposal, we were able to learn about how proposals are created and what the necessary aspects of planning a large research endeavor are.