What emerging trends are changing library services? What does the connected world of “continuous computing” mean for 21^st Century libraries? The Hyperlinked Library MOOC offered by the School of Information at San José State University provides a roadmap toward becoming a participatory, interactive, user-centered library.

The Hyperlinked Library MOOC is a professional development opportunity designed for information professionals and those interested in the topic. The MOOC is not offered for academic credit. SJSU iSchool graduate students who participate in the MOOC will not receive credit toward their master’s degrees.

Course Description

The term “Hyperlinked Library” describes how our connected world is transforming 21^st century libraries into participatory, playful, and user-centered spaces while upholding traditional values.Itencompasses both physical and virtual space, as well as many types of libraries.

The Hyperlinked Library MOOC examines various participatory theories of library service, the impact of emerging technologies on libraries, and the growing focus on a creation/curation culture. Students explore the definition of participatory service, some key trends that impact the Hyperlinked Library model, and examine what the shift means for libraries and information work in today’s digital information age.

Students experience an interactive online learning environment via a wide range of tools and diverse materials (e.g., freely accessible readings, recorded presentations from practitioners, and online videos). Students are encouraged to explore these resources and engage with peers and instructors, heightening their learning and taking full advantage of this professional development opportunity.

SJSU iSchool assistant professor Michael Stephens developed and created the Hyperlinked Library course over the last few years, drawing on experiences working with libraries located across North America and internationally, including Germany, Australia, Turkey, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Global experts and resources are highlighted as part of the Hyperlinked Library MOOC learning experience.

Assignments

MOOC students expand their learning by completing assignments, such as:

• Director’s brief – an overview of the origins and usage of emerging technologies in libraries and information environments
• Emerging technologies plan – a roadmap for implementing emerging technologies
• Social media policy – guidelines on how to use social media
• Community engagement plan – strategies and ideas for serving our members

Instructors

SJSU iSchool assistant professor Michael Stephens, PhD, and lecturer Kyle Jones, MLIS, along with course assistants, are the instructors for the Hyperlinked Library MOOC. Both instructors also teach in the fully online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program at the SJSU School of Information.

Stephens has spoken about emerging technologies, innovation, and libraries to audiences in more than 27 states and eight countries, including a research tour of Australia and presentations for the U.S. embassies in Germany and Turkey. He has authored numerous articles, and he currently writes the monthly column “Office Hours” in Library Journal magazine, exploring issues, ideas and emerging trends in library and information science education.

Jones is a doctoral student at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and teaches on topics related to digital tools, trends, and controversies. He is the author of several publications, including a book chapter in “The LIS Professional Commons and the Online Networked Practitioner” with Stephens.

Assessment

The Hyperlinked Library MOOC is a not for credit professional development learning experience. This course emphasizes student involvement and fosters an open and welcoming environment of thoughtful dialogue. Students are encouraged to participate in online discussions, collaborate with other students on assignments, and provide commentary on each other’s work.

Instructors provide informal assessment of course assignments with students earning badges as they move through the course. MOOC students receive a certificate upon successful completion of required components of the course.

Schedule

The Hyperlinked Library MOOC began in fall 2013.

• Duration: 12 weeks
• First day of class: September 3, 2013
• Last day of class: November 23, 2013