Syllabus for the Course

17:610:592 FIELD EXPERIENCE, 3 Credits

I. Catalog Description

Requires a minimum of 150 hours of supervised professional work in an approved information agency or
library; attendance at seminars; a journal; and a paper analyzing the work experience and relating it to
course work and professional goals. Arrangements must be initiated with the faculty adviser at the
beginning of the semester prior to that in which the field experience is to be pursued.

II. Pre- and/or corequisites

Successful completion of 15 credits of course work. Enrollment limited; preference is given to students
with no library work experience.

III. Course Objectives

The student, faculty adviser, and field supervisor will determine competencies to be developed by the
student in each case. However, all students will be required to demonstrate the ability to synthesize
theory and practice; to analyze the sponsoring agency’s program of service in terms of its goals and
objectives and its clientele; and to re-examine career goals in light of the experience.

IV. Organization of the Course

A special project may be assigned in lieu of rotational duties, or work in the area of the student’s choice
may be emphasized. Each practicum is individualized, and planned in terms of the needs of the student
and the sponsoring organization.

V. Major Assignments

Students will keep a journal to record their learning experience and will submit it periodically to the
faculty adviser. Students will submit a paper at the completion of the field experience which will
summarize the knowledge and skills acquired (see III above). Students assigned special projects also
may submit a copy of the project report. In addition, students are required to participate in seminars and
individual conferences with the adviser, and to read whatever is assigned by the site supervisor or
adviser.

VI. Methods of Assessment

The supervising librarian and the faculty adviser both evaluate the student’s performance. The supervisor
will describe the student’s ability to complete assigned tasks, manner of interaction with staff and
clientele, initiative, and understanding of the agency’s mission and operation. The faculty adviser will
evaluate the student’s ability to analyze the agency’s mission and operation, to integrate practice and
theory, and to clarify career goals. The final assessment will be made by the faculty adviser, based on
the supervisor’s input, the student’s journal and paper, and discussion with the student. A pass/fail grade
will be assigned based on the student’s completion of the required hours and assignments.