Carole Palmer
clpalmer@uiuc.edu

Course Description: This seminar examines the role of information in the
production of scientific knowledge. Building on a foundation of classic readings in scientific information and communication, the course will cover a range of contemporary research on scientific information use, collaboration, research practice, and informatics. The focus is on formal and informal information transfer and communication as a social phenomenon and implications for collaborative science and e-science. The course has been developed as part of the master's degree in bioinformatics and is also suited for doctoral students and advanced master's students interested in professional development as science and medical information specialists. The class will be conducted as a seminar centered on discussion of readings and student interests. Students will lead class discussions, select and present overviews of relevant research studies, and give updates on their own research projects. Assignments and projects will allow students to focus on an established research interest or to explore new areas.

Objectives:
Become familiar with a range of LIS and social science literature on scientific communication and information practices.

Gain experience constructively analyzing and critiquing theories, concepts,
methods, and findings in relation to their contribution to core problems in
information science.

Develop an independent project that advances the student’s interests and goals related to scientific information and communication processes, systems, or services.