Author Description

An ideal introduction to information as an "external commodity" that can be manipulated, retrieved, transmitted, and used, this text shows students how to solve questions by utilizing data as a means of efficient action, a skill that can be usefully applied in almost every discipline. An Introduction to Information Science focuses on the major themes: methods of collecting, analyzing, and using data... data organization and storage... information retrieval through the use of query languages... data display and communication... and the use of information in decision making and problem solving. In addition, this volume explains how to utilize "models" specifying which data is relevant for answering specific questions... gives a skill-oriented overview of the field... provides students with the cognitive equipment necessary for advanced study... realistically depicts the day-to-day practice of the professional information scientist... draws each sub-topic into a consistent, unified treatment of the subject... lists objectives for each chapter that highlight what students should master... and structures the subject to benefit professionals in other fields who need to acquire a basic knowledge of information science. An Introduction to Information Science serves as an essential text for introductory undergraduate courses in information science, as well as for courses in library schools, business schools, and computer science curricula. It also serves as a valuable reference for librarians, information scientists, personnel managers, systems analysts, and computer scientists. Book jacket.