Time Schedule:
Penelope A Hazelton
LIS 595
Seattle Campus
From a list of current topics in law librarianship, students select a topic, research it fully, write a major paper, and present their paper. Topics may include citation reform, ethics, and publisher practices. Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: Law Librarianship majors or permission of instructor.
Class description
This course covers current topics that are not covered in other law librarianship courses. Citation reform, ethics of the profession, legal publishing, history of law librarianship, professional and career development, and intellectual property issues are some of the topics that have been covered in the past. The current topics will be covered in 3-4 classes scheduled throughout fall and winter quarters. In addition to an introduction to these and other topics, the course requires the research and writing of a significant, publishable paper. Topic selection, a thesis statement, an outline, and a rough draft will all be required over winter and spring quarters. Students will have an opportunity to present their paper to their peers and a broader audience at the end of Spring quarter. This paper and presentation will fulfill the iSchool's Degree Research Project requirement.
Student learning goals
Students will know and be able to discuss the current issues in the profession of law librarianship.
Students will be able to write resumes and cover letters that will assist in job placement activities.
Students will prepare and deliver a presentation about a specific legal research skill which can be used during job interviews and first jobs in law libraries.
Students will identify a topic, do research, and write a significant, publishable paper.
Students will practice using presentation software to create a presentation of their paper for an audience.
General method of instruction
Lecture; guest speakers
Recommended preparation
Requires enrollment in Law MLIS program.
Class assignments and grading
Credit/No Credit
Readings and discussion; two presentations; one publishable paper
