Liz Grauel e-Portfolio

Outcome 2a: Describe various definitions and concepts of information.

The artifacts shared here come from an Organization of Knowledge (LIS-703) discussion post related to metadata, data, and their ethical implications and a reflection paper from Critical Race Information Theory: Power of the Capture Moment (LIS-762) in which the concept of information as an interpretation of data and a source of power is considered. These artifacts seek to define, interpret, and apply concepts of information and how information can be retrieved/accessed in order to meet user needs in diverse environments (Outcome 2a) and apply a critical perspective to library and information practices (Outcome 1b).

While addressing different subjects and created for different courses and contexts, the these artifacts are paired under outcome 2a to demonstrate both practical and theoretical exercises in describing various definitions and concepts of information. The reflection paper presents an original model conceptualizing the spectrum of data to power, including definitions of the terms data, information, narrative, and power. It is a model that is continuing to develop beyond this class. The second piece, a discussion post about data and metadata, demonstrates understanding of how information is described along with the ethical implications of metadata. Both artifacts provide evidence of an understanding of the essential nature of information and its relevance and impact to our diverse society.

Comparing information policy and infrastructure in Japan and the U.S., this Information Policy (LIS-755) project was completed in Spring 2023. The presentation evaluates how physical information infrastructure and information technology facilitate access to information (Outcome 3c) and describes each country’s physical, political, legal, and regulatory Information infrastructures and the way that resulting resources and policies impact freedom of information, information access, and e-inclusion (Outcome 2b).

Available as a recording with audio and as a stand-alone slide deck, this artifact is a detailed report on the policies that govern physical information infrastructure and the information/telecommunications market; information policy that grants or restricts free speech, privacy, and access to government records; access to internet content and user rights; and access to broadband internet in rural areas. It describes the impacts of information infrastructure and policies and is presented as evidence of understanding the impact of policy on the availability and accessibility of information in diverse societies.

Following the completion of a digital exclusion survey and needs assessment for the diverse population of the City of Dayton, a Digital Resources Guide website was created (Outcome 3a) to respond to Dayton residents’ need for information and resources that enable them to more fully participate as digital citizens (Outcome 2c).

To assess information needs of the diverse community of Dayton, Ohio, a digital exclusion survey was completed and includes general demographics of the city’s residents as well as information about access to the internet, internet connected devices, and overall digital literacy. With an understanding of the community’s access and information needs, the Digital Resources Guide website was created to help community members more easily find important information and resources that can assist with accessing and using digital technologies in ways that improve their lives. . It is a community guide containing digital citizenship resources, including technology centers, broadband services, and digital skills training available to residents of the City of Dayton.