National CAE Designated Institution
  • Classroom
  • Online, Instructor-Led

This course introduces reference/information work using print and online sources; the course also explores current trends, professional topics, and issues relevant to information-providing agencies in traditional and online environments.

Learning Objectives

  1. Describe the ethical tenets of professional reference services.
  2. Apply reference interview strategies to identify the information needs of patrons.
  3. Identify which type of reference resources are best to use for answering different kinds of information requests.
  4. Combine search strategies to effectively retrieve information from databases.
  5. Explain the issues that influence and shape reference services in the electronic age.
  6. Assemble a subject list combining appropriate resources for a selected audience and topic.

Framework Connections

The materials within this course focus on the NICE Framework Task, Knowledge, and Skill statements identified within the indicated NICE Framework component(s):

Competency Areas

Work Roles

Feedback

If you would like to provide feedback for this course, please e-mail the NICCS SO at NICCS@hq.dhs.gov.