- User-focus. Compared to business, computer science and
other professions, LIS' focus on users stands out. We
can incorporate an understanding of human values and communication
processes in our programs.
- Motivations. LIS faculty and students feel very strongly
about information access. Most strive to bring information and
people together. Many have strong feelings about censorship
or equity of information access. These motivating factors can
result in approaches to and choice of application areas that
are intended to change the world.
- Evangelism. LIS grads are gatekeepers and opinion leaders.
We can work to enhance ethical behaviors in organizations,
and prevent unethical behavior.
- Subversion. The programmers have a profound opportunity to
make micro and macro policy decisions. How a program works, and
what it does, can greatly impact both what it can be used for,
and the values it communicates.
Addendum to the talk: What's going on
lately at UNC-CH SILS?
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