Information Professionals Explore Technology Trends in New
Emerging Future MOOC
Your
opportunities for professional development at the San Jose State University
(SJSU) School of Library and Information Science continue to expand with the
addition of a new and future-focused Massive Open Online Course (MOOC).
The
new MOOC, entitled, “Emerging Future:
Technology Issues and Trends,” aims to explore the impact of new
technologies while introducing participants to important issues, emerging
trends, and the skills necessary to plan effectively for the future. It begins
this fall, and registration is
now open.
As
a participant, you will experience an interactive online learning environment
via a wide range of tools and diverse materials (e.g., freely accessible
readings, recorded presentations, and online videos), and you’ll have an
opportunity to:
- Explore the current technological environment
- Become immersed in the literature and practices of current futurists
- Select appropriate resources to use in planning for new technologies
- Discuss key impact factors and trends affecting our personal and global existence
- Engage with peers and instructors, heightening their learning and taking full advantage of this professional development opportunity
- Earn badges and MOOC certification on completion of activities related to each of the modules
Dr. Sue Alman, a lecturer at
the SJSU information school and an expert in both futurism and online learning,
created the “Emerging Future: Technology Issues and Trends” MOOC based on her
“Exploring Future Technologies” LIBR 281 seminar offered to graduate students
in the school’s 100% online Master of
Library and Information Science (MLIS) program. She is co-teaching with
Jen Jumba, a public
librarian who also teaches courses in the school’s MLIS program.
According
to Alman, “There are dozens of categories that have been targeted for major
research initiatives, and the results will have theoretical and practical
effects on the ways in which libraries and archives strategically plan for the
future. Some of these areas include astrophysics, big data, cybersecurity,
transportation, robotics, agriculture, and many more.”
The
rapid development of new technologies also has enormous impact on the future of
individuals and information organizations. Alman added, “Professionals who have
traditional library and archives roles must be aware of the information and
technological advances in order to assist users, and they must be prepared for
exciting new positions in all types of organizations.”
Knowing
who and what to watch will keep you informed on the latest technology issues
and trends that will impact the future. Reserve
your spot for this future-focused MOOC.
The
“Emerging Future: Technology Issues and Trends” MOOC is open to everyone as a
professional development opportunity. The MOOC does not offer academic credit.
The class will run from Sept. 22, 2014 to Nov. 2, 2014. Enrollment is capped at
500 students, and participants will be registered on a first-come, first-served
basis.
