Seeking Candidates: Master’s in Information Science with Focus on Assessment and UX
The UT School of Information Sciences (SIS) has launched a unique master’s degree program, “Experience Assessment,” to create new leaders in assessment and user experience (UX). Information professionals are expected to test the user’s online experience in order to create user-friendly environments for a diverse range of users. However, few information science programs prepare their graduate students for this work. UT’s pilot program, funded by a Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, will develop a prototype curriculum for training new experts in UX and assessment.
SIS is seeking twelve master’s candidates for the two-year pilot program, which runs from Fall Semester 2016 through May 2018. Each student will receive full tuition, medical benefits, an assistantship stipend, and travel funding. Students will complete hands-on, mentored research experiences at UT UX laboratories, UT Libraries, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the U.S. Geological Survey, Information International Associates, and the Tombras Group.
SIS associate professor Carol Tenopir is principal investigator. Regina Mays, assistant professor and assessment librarian at the UT Libraries, is senior personnel. UT Libraries associate dean for learning, research and engagement, Teresa Walker, will serve as a mentor. Co-principal investigators are Dania Bilal, SIS professor, and Rachel Fleming-May, SIS associate professor.
UT Libraries Faculty Member Publishes Manual for New Library Managers
Corey Halaychik, assistant professor and electronic resources specialist at the UT Libraries, is the author of a manual for librarians who are new to management. Lessons in Library Leadership: A Primer for Library Managers and Unit Leaders (Chandos Publishing 2016) includes case studies, real world examples, tactics, and bibliographic information essential for developing management skills. New managers with no formalized training can experience added stress as they scramble to learn how to lead, to formulate departmental goals, to conduct effective assessment, to think and plan strategically, to counsel employees, and much more. Halaychik’s book serves as a primer for new supervisors, as well as a quick reference resource for seasoned managers.