LIS 6409
Discovery Lab Project Proposal
Related Learning Outcome
II.c. Students understand and use appropriate information technology for information services.
Artifact Overview
This project proposal formalized the development of the Discovery Lab, a technology initiative for The Cougar Den at Kenly Elementary School. The proposed lab would provide six to twelve permanent computer workstations, including dedicated kiosk stations for immediate access to the Sirsi library union catalog and additional computers for small-group instruction in digital literacy, online research, information evaluation, and district-provided digital resources. The proposal includes project partners, required resources, a scalable budget, an implementation timeline, and measurable assessment goals focused on increasing students’ independence in locating library materials.
I selected this artifact for Outcome II.c because the project uses information technology to address a specific barrier to library access and information services. Students currently depend on staff assistance or temporary laptop setup to search the catalog, limiting opportunities to develop independent information-seeking skills. The Discovery Lab uses permanent, purposefully configured technology to make information retrieval more immediate while also expanding opportunities for digital literacy and research instruction. The project demonstrates my ability to select and plan technology around user needs rather than treating technology as an end in itself.