[Asis-l] Virtual reference courses online @ University of Maryland

[Betsy Alexander]

The University of Maryland College of Information Studies will offer two
on-line courses on virtual reference in Spring 2005.



"Virtual Reference Software Selection" will be offered from April 4-15.
This course is geared toward any library manager who is in the process of
selecting new virtual reference software or evaluating options for an
upgrade. The interactive, web-based course features readings, message board
discussions with peers, and information on decision-making resources from
the instructor (Jody C. Fagan, MLS).  You will learn how to:  analyze user
needs; evaluate software features and costs; identify "must-have" features;
and, involve your staff in decision-making.  You should plan to devote
approximately five (5) hours to the course over the two-week period.  Upon
successful completion, .5 CEU will be awarded.  The registration deadline
for "VR Software Selection" is March 18.



"Virtual Reference Legal Issues" will be offered from May 9-20.  This
interactive, web-based course is geared toward all librarians and will
feature readings, message board discussions with peers, feedback from the
instructor (Mary Minow, MLS, JD), and a framework for analyzing VR issues.
You will learn how to:  analyze copyright issues in the context of the VR
service; find up-to-date resources on legal issues; determine which areas of
law impact VR and when to contact a lawyer.  You should plan to devote
approximately five (5) hours to the course over the two-week period.  Upon
successful completion, .5 CEU will be awarded.  The registration deadline
for "VR Legal Issues" is April 25.



To register on-line for "VR Software Selection", click on  Register VRSS

To register on-line for "VR Legal Issues", click on  Register VRLI



For other ways to register and additional information on professional
development courses, visit http://www.clis.umd.edu/ce.