New Technologies for Information Retrieval: A Three‐Credit Course for Undergraduates at Salem State College

In the Spring 1989 semester, the Interdisciplinary Studies Department of Salem State College first offered New Technologies for Information Retrieval. This three‐credit course provides an introduction to automated searching tools available to students directly at home or indirectly through libraries and colleges. Database searching, CD‐ROM, interactive videodisks, bulletin boards, electronic mail, and online catalogs are among the technologies discussed. This article will elaborate on the rationale, goals, development, execution, and outcomes of the course, and relate them to current discussions on the importance of expanding “information literacy” for students.