Research and Ethical/Creative/Critical Practice

Big Tech and Housing Sustainability
Foundations of Information  INFO-601

Foundations of Information introduces the idea that information science is not just about books and libraries.  Information collection, dissemination and access is an intrinsic part of life and exponentially becoming evermore present in modern life.  Information has to do with learning, privacy, working, computerization and entertainment to name but a few.  In this class we were tasked with expanding our understanding of the field of information and embracing our 

This paper is an example of both the Research, and Ethical/Creative/Critical Practice student learning outcomes.  In this paper I researched how the presence and business tactics of Big Tech companies have resulted in the loss of affordable housing in cities in the United States.  While researching this paper I found information about the technology industry in several cities including New York, Alexandria, Nashville and in Naples, Italy and, Toronto, Canada.  

While writing this paper, I was influenced by the work of Salvatore Settis If Venice Dies.  I became interested in his work because Dr. Rabina assigned another one of his articles about architecture for the class.  I was intrigued by his idea that the people have a right to their city and that without the citizens who live, work and create the vibe of that city, there will be no city.  Venice is a tragic example for Settis because so many Venetians can no longer live in the place where they may have called home for generations. This made me think of the ethical questions many of us have about Big Tech and Big Data.  How much information is too much? How much power are we comfortable ceding to companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon?  How much do we want to give up in order to be in this modern life? 

Big Tech and Housing Sustainability

User Centered Services And Technology

 Julia and Edgar's Joint
Information Technologies INFO 654

The assignment was to create a website on any topic utilizing the skills learned in the class and to cull from our newfound knowledge of the field of information. With an eye towards my first career as a creative arts therapist working with mentally ill adults, I envisioned a space where patients I have worked with could exist in a space where they are accepted, welcomed and assisted.  This therapeutic library would provide access not only to books about mental health and wellness, but also technologies now being utilized across the country in libraries to promote learning, recreation and stress relief, including music/video production and computer literacy among others. I also tried to integrate stress reduction technologies like Biofeedback technologies and Fitbits.   

Julia and Edgar's Joint 

Foundations of Library and Information Studies

Joseph Moxon's A Tutor to Astronomie and Geographie
Rare Books and Special Collections INFO-689

I decided to become a librarian because I enjoy books so its no surprise I would choose this paper as an example of the foundations of library and information studies learning outcome.  It was in this class that I learned the basics of books and bookmaking in the modern era.  Besides learning about paper making, watermarks, moveable type and the process of putting books together, I also explored libraries as "place" and how type itself can communicate to readers.  I learned of the sad state of bookmaking due to the poor materials used in our times, and yet I also learned of the enduring allure of books and the written word.  In order to complete this project, I had to visit the Rare Books Department of the New York Public Library where customer service was very important to the staff.  I noticed the importance of interacting with people who may not be in the best mood, or may have some psychiatric complications, but have the right to enjoy the library, including the rare books section.  

Joseph Moxon’s A Tutor to Astronomie and Geographie