Department of Library Science and Technology
About
Chair: Dr. Holly Weimar
Contact Information: (936) 294-1151
Website: Department of Library Science and Technology
Mission
The Department of Library Science and Technology is dedicated to excellence in instruction, scholarship, creative endeavors, and through service to both our students and the broader communities we serve. Through these efforts, we prepare professionals to meet the evolving needs of diverse learning environments--locally, nationally, and globally. We also cultivate leaders who elevate their fields and champion meaningful, lasting improvements in educational practices and outcomes.
The Department is home to the Master of Library Science (MLS) and certification program for school librarians in Texas and to the programs for an undergraduate degree in Learning Technologies and a master's and doctorate in Instructional Systems Design and Technology (ISDT). Two graduate certificates are offered by the Department: (1) Educational Technology; and (2) Effective Online Instruction. The courses for the degrees and graduate certificates are designed to enhance learning and performance. All programs are 100% online. Faculty design learning experiences to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for opportunities in their respective fields. To learn more, please contact the Department about the programs that are offered.
Academic Programs
- Graduate students who are interested in becoming instructional technology professionals will need to pursue a Master of Education in Instructional Systems Design and Technology (ISDT).
- Graduate students who already hold an ISDT master's or similar degree and who desire to further their education at the next level will need need to pursue a Doctorate in ISDT.
- For those graduate students who are interested in becoming a school librarian, they must hold a teaching certificate, two years of teaching experience, and pursue a Master of Library Science unless they already hold an educational master's degree and are approved to seek school librarian certification only.
Values
- Student success
- Academic excellence
- Inclusiveness
- Collaboration
- Creativity and innovation
Highlights
- The School Librarian Preparation and Certification Program is Nationally Recognized by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), a division of the American Library Association (ALA) and is part of the SHSU College of Education, which is an accredited educator preparation provider through the Council for the Accreditation for Educator Preparation (CAEP).
- The online programs have class sizes that provide an opportunity for close working relationships between faculty and students.
- The programs prepare graduates with critical thinking and problem-solving skills that may be applied to their careers.
Career Opportunities
- PK-12 school librarian
- Instructional technology professionals for:
- PK-16 students
- Private industry and businesses
- Other instructional settings
Education Research (EDER)
EDER 7350. Applied Qualitative Research. 3 Hours.
This course equips students to apply qualitative methods—such as interviews, focus groups, case studies, and observations—to investigate real-world problems of practice. Students will design and conduct studies, analyze and interpret data, and communicate findings, integrating ethical, context-sensitive approaches that inform professional decision-making and contribute to the broader knowledge base. Course Equivalents: LITC 7350 .
EDER 7358. Applied Mixed Methods Research. 3 Hours.
This course equips doctoral students to integrate qualitative and quantitative approaches to investigate complex problems of practice. Students will design and implement mixed-methods studies, analyze and interpret data from multiple perspectives, and communicate findings that inform professional decision-making, support organizational improvement, and contribute to the broader knowledge base. Course Equivalents: LITC 7358 .
EDER 7362. Methods of Education Research. 3 Hours.
Students explore various research paradigms and strategies for educational research. Concepts explored include developing problem statements, research questions, sampling, and methods of data collection. Students will analyze ethical issues in research situations. Course Equivalents: EDLD 7362
Prerequisite: Acceptance to an education doctoral program.
EDER 7365. Statistical Methods. 3 Hours.
This applied foundational statistics course is designed to develop the requisite level of critical thinking for conducting valid quantitative research. Doctoral students will learn to compute and meaningfully interpret descriptive and inferential statistics, including tests of relationship and difference. Course Equivalents: CIED 7372, ISDT 7372
Prerequisite: Acceptance to an education doctoral program.
EDER 7370. Applied Quantitative Research. 3 Hours.
This course equips students to apply quantitative methods, including surveys, descriptive, and correlational designs, to real-world problems of practice. Students will design studies, analyze data, interpret results, and communicate findings, integrating ethical considerations and scholarly-practitioner perspectives to inform decision-making, program improvement, and the professional knowledge base. Course Equivalents: LITC 7370 .
EDER 7372. Qualitative Inquiry. 3 Hours.
This course emphasizes knowledge and skills needed for qualitative inquiry within an educational context. Emphasis is on theoretical foundations of qualitative inquiry along with practical application of methods through field-based activities. Course Equivalents: EDLD 7372
Prerequisite: Acceptance to an education doctoral program and EDER 7362.
EDER 7374. Advanced Statistical Methods. 3 Hours.
This applied advanced statistics course is designed to enhance foundational analytical skills for conducting valid quantitative research. Doctoral students will learn to compute and meaningfully interpret advanced statistical tests, including tests of relationship and differences. Course Equivalents: COUN 7374
Prerequisite: Acceptance to an education doctoral program.
EDER 7375. Advanced Qualitative Inquiry. 3 Hours.
This course exposes students to advanced qualitative inquiry in education. Students explore emerging methodologies, theories, analytical trends/approaches, technologies, and modes of presenting information on educational research from advanced qualitative perspectives. Course Equivalents: LITC 7351, READ 7351
Prerequisite: EDER 7372, COUN 7372, or LITC 7350 and permission of the instructor.
Instructional Systems Design Technology (ISDT)
ISDT 5088. Special Topics in Instructional Technology. 1-3 Hours.
Students pursue individualized research or professional inquiry under the guidance of a faculty member. Students identify a topic of interest, develop a proposal, and engage in self-directed study that deepens their understanding of a specific area within instructional technology. The course is designed to foster independent learning, critical thinking, and scholarly or practical contributions to the field.
ISDT 5319. Critical Analysis of Instructional Software. 3 Hours.
Students examine commercial and open software designed for instructional use and apply instructional theories in analyzing the software's effectiveness in learning. Course Equivalents: CSTE 5319 .
ISDT 5336. Digital Learning Technologies for Instructional Leaders. 3 Hours.
Students explore the use of learning technologies to extend the instructional leader's skill base in the development of appropriate digital learning examples to support and enhance instructional practices. Throughout the course, students gain experience in digital editing, audio and animation production, authoring tools, and immersive technologies. Course Equivalents: CSTE 5336 .
ISDT 5337. Design of Tech-Support Learning. 3 Hours.
Students explore the systematic design of authentic learning experiences supported by innovative learning technology. Course Equivalents: CSTE 5337 .
ISDT 5338. Development of Technology Infrastructure. 3 Hours.
Students examine the funding, design, and implementation processes required to establish and realize a coherent technology acquisition and management strategy. Course Equivalents: CSTE 5338 .
ISDT 5363. The Role of Technology Liaison. 3 Hours.
Students investigate learning philosophies and develop critical skills to facilitate subject matter experts throughout the instructional process supported by technology. Course Equivalents: CIED 5363 .
ISDT 5365. Technology and Cognition. 3 Hours.
Students examine the symbiotic relationships between technology and cognition. Students design technology-rich instructional activities that provide different means of learner engagement, representation, action, and expression. Course Equivalents: CIED 5365 .
ISDT 5367. Readings and Trends In Instructional Technology. 3 Hours.
Students examine the critical writings and ideas of prominent practitioners, researchers, and theorists in instructional technology, with a focus on understanding the trends and issues pertinent to a scholarly study of integrating technology into teaching and learning. Students evaluate the best instructional technology strategies evident in the literature and practices in educational and industry settings. Course Equivalents: CIED 5367 .
ISDT 5369. Practicum-Technology Facilitation. 3 Hours.
Students participate in a field-based practicum, including a study of the daily duties and responsibilities of a technology facilitator. Course Equivalents: CIED 5369 .
ISDT 6335. Management Application Analysis I. 3 Hours.
Students apply systematic and rational approaches to the analysis, evaluation of course management systems from the perspective of pedagogical success and user friendliness.
ISDT 6351. Distance Learning. 3 Hours.
Students explore the instructional, technical, and management issues in distance education delivery systems. Effective online course design and delivery of teaching and learning resources and strategies are examined.
ISDT 6389. Independent Study. 3 Hours.
Students study individually chosen topics under the supervision of a faculty member. The specific topic is selected from current trends and future research directions, not covered in the Instructional Systems and Design Technology (ISDT) graduate curriculum.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and approval of department chair.
ISDT 7315. Digital Learning Infrastructure. 3 Hours.
Students examine how technology infrastructures are designed and managed to support digital learning. The course focuses on core concepts such as connectivity, systems planning, and organizational and policy influences. Emphasis is placed on developing and sustaining reliable, scalable systems that enable effective teaching, learning, and operations in diverse settings. Course Equivalents: CSTE 7315
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7325. Technology Sustainability. 3 Hours.
Students examine the conditions that contribute to sustainable technology use across diverse organizational settings. The course may emphasize evaluating sustainability from technical, financial, operational, and ethical perspectives to support informed, strategic decisions about technology over time. Course Equivalents: CSTE 7325
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7335. Learning Experience Management. 3 Hours.
Students examine digital platforms used for learning experience management, focusing on how these tools organize, deliver, and support instruction and training. The course emphasizes systematic approaches for analyzing platform features, evaluating usability and pedagogical alignment, and assessing how effectively platform capabilities support the management and delivery of learning.
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. Program Course Equivalents: CSTE 7335 .
ISDT 7336. Instructional Design Assessment. 3 Hours.
Students explore approaches for evaluating instructional designs, with emphasis on how learning outcomes, participant experiences, and overall effectiveness inform judgments of quality across technology-enhanced environments. Course Equivalents: CSTE 7336
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7350. Contemporary Issues in Learning & Technology. 3 Hours.
Students examine evolving issues shaping the design and application of technology-supported learning and performance systems. Topics may reflect current developments and research in the field, with emphasis on critical analysis of trends, practices, and theoretical perspectives that inform professional practice. Course Equivalents: CIED 7350
Prerequisite: Admission into the Ed.D. Instructional Technology program.
ISDT 7351. Digital Learning Environments. 3 Hours.
Students examine advanced concepts, practices, and emerging trends in digital learning environments. Emphasis is placed on the design, facilitation, and evaluation of technology-mediated learning experiences across diverse settings. The course explores evolving theories, technologies, and systems that influence effective and engaging digital learning. Course Equivalents: CIED 7351
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7352. Instructional Planning. 3 Hours.
Students examine approaches for supporting instructional personnel in planning effective learning experiences within technology-enhanced environments. The course emphasizes flexible strategies for instructional planning, including ways to align goals with appropriate methods and resources and to make thoughtful decisions about integrating digital tools as technologies and needs evolve. Course Equivalents: CIED 7352
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7353. Professional Learning & Development. 3 Hours.
Students explore concepts, practices, and emerging trends in professional learning and development. Emphasis is placed on the design, facilitation, and evaluation of learning experiences that enhance individual and organizational capacity across diverse professional contexts. Course Equivalents: CIED 7353
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7354. Leadership in Technology Administration. 3 Hours.
Students examine leadership approaches for guiding the strategic use of technology across diverse professional contexts. Emphasis may be placed on how leaders apply theory, evidence, and context-aware decision-making to plan, implement, and sustain technology-enhanced systems and practices. Course Equivalents: CIED 7354
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7355. Program Evaluation. 3 Hours.
Students analyze how evaluation frameworks, evidence sources, and contextual factors are applied to assess the quality, impact, and improvement of programs and initiatives within instructional systems design and technology. Course Equivalents: CIED 7355
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7374. Qualitative Analysis. 3 Hours.
Students develop qualitative research skills by engaging in a substantial field-based instructional technology research project. Course Equivalents: CIED 7374
Prerequisite: Admission into the Ed.D. Instructional Technology program.
ISDT 7375. Multivariate Analysis and Learning Analytics. 3 Hours.
Students examine how data is collected, organized, and interpreted to inform decisions about learning and performance in digital and technology-enhanced environments. The course emphasizes foundational analytic concepts, ethical considerations, and adaptable approaches for exploring patterns, generating insights, and supporting instructional and organizational improvement as the field continues to evolve.
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program, EDER 7365.
ISDT 7380. Instructional Technology Research Methods. 3 Hours.
Students focus on the research questions, approaches, and measures typically employed by instructional technology researchers. Course Equivalents: CSTE 7380
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7385. Doctoral Internship. 3 Hours.
Students engage in a supervised professional internship that integrates doctoral study with applied practice in instructional systems design and technology. Course Equivalents: CIED 7385
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7386. Special Topics. 3 Hours.
Students explore emerging or specialized areas of practice and scholarship within instructional systems design and technology. Topics vary by semester and reflect developments in theories, methods, systems, or technologies shaping the field. The course supports advanced inquiry beyond the core curriculum and adapts to evolving professional and research needs. The course may be repeated for credit.
ISDT 7388. Doctoral Field Studies. 3 Hours.
Students investigate a field-based problem of practice within an instructional systems design and technology context. Emphasis may be placed on applying analytical, design, or evaluative approaches to address authentic organizational needs, drawing on advanced knowledge of systems, learning, and technology. Projects vary by setting and may focus on emerging issues, innovations, or challenges that benefit from scholarly inquiry and practitioner expertise. Course Equivalents: CIED 7388
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 7389. Independent Study. 3 Hours.
Students study individually chosen topics under the supervision of a faculty member. The specific topic is selected from current trends and future research directions, not covered in the Instructional Systems and Design Technology (ISDT) graduate curriculum.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and approval of department chair.
ISDT 7391. Application of Research. 3 Hours.
Students apply research knowledge to examine and address a problem of practice within their professional context. The course emphasizes unpacking how applied studies are planned and communicated, including the purpose, structure, and logic of research proposals. Students explore practical, organizational, and ethical considerations that influence how practitioner-focused research is conceptualized, justified, and prepared for implementation. Course Equivalents: CIED 7391
Prerequisite: Admission to ISDT Ed.D. program.
ISDT 8033. Dissertation. 1-6 Hours.
Students engage in sustained, faculty-supervised scholarly work focused on investigating a problem of practice within instructional systems design and technology. The course supports ongoing inquiry and continued progress toward fulfilling the program’s culminating scholarly requirements. Variable Credit: 1-6. Course Equivalents: CIED 8333, ISDT 8333 .
Library Science (LSSL)
LSSL 5087. Special Topics in Library Science. 1-3 Hours.
Students explore emerging or specialized topics in the field of library and information science. Designed to deepen understanding of complex issues facing library professionals. This course is designed for independent study under the supervision of a faculty member. Variable Credit (1-3).
LSSL 5088. Special Topics in School Libraries. 3 Hours.
Students examine current and emerging topics relevant to school librarianship. Emphasis is may be placed on professional standards and practical strategies for supporting student learning. This course is designed for independent study under the supervision of a faculty member. Variable Credit (1-3).
LSSL 5089. Independent Study in School Librarianship. 1-3 Hours.
Students pursue individualized research or professional inquiry under the guidance of a faculty member. Students identify a topic of interest, develop a proposal, and engage in self-directed study that deepens their understanding of a specific area within school librarianship. The course is designed to foster independent learning, critical thinking, and scholarly or practical contributions to the field. Variable Credit (1-3).
LSSL 5330. Collection Development. 3 Hours.
Students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to curate, evaluate, and manage an effective school library collection. Emphasis may be placed on selection criteria, resource evaluation, collection analysis, and the integration of digital and print materials to support curricular and community needs. Students also explore ethical considerations, intellectual freedom, and strategies for ongoing collection assessment and improvement.
LSSL 5332. Organization of Collections. 3 Hours.
Students examine principles, practices, and tools used to organize library materials for effective access and retrieval. Students will explore how information resources are systematically arranged, described, and made discoverable. The course covers essential topics in bibliographic organization, including classification systems, cataloging standards, subject analysis and controlled vocabularies, and authority control.
LSSL 5334. Information Services and Resources. 3 Hours.
Students explore skills, techniques, and the philosophy of the reference process with emphasis on the interview and strategies. Students examine and discuss basic reference tools using specific evaluative criteria as well as analyze library systems, networks, databases, and digital searching techniques.
LSSL 5337. School Library Administration. 3 Hours.
Students study planning, organizing, policymaking, staffing, budgeting, facilities planning, decision-making, and services. An emphasis may be placed on the study of standards, trends, services, research, and evaluation of the school library. This course is the first semester of practicum.
Prerequisite: LSSL 5330 and LSSL 5332.
LSSL 5360. Literature For Children. 3 Hours.
Students explore the selection, critical analysis, and historical development of literature for children. Emphasis may be placed on selecting recreational and informational materials for children reflecting our multicultural society; identifying techniques, activities, and strategies that motivate children to read and respond to literature; and developing critical abilities for evaluating literature for children. Prerequisite: None.
LSSL 5361. Trends in Materials for Children & Young Adults. 3 Hours.
Students examine recent trends in materials for children and young adults, with an emphasis placed on multicultural materials for children and young adults. Elective.
Prerequisite: LSSL 5360 and LSSL 5385.
LSSL 5366. Library Practicum/Intern. 3 Hours.
Students participate in a supervised, real-world experience in PK-12 school library settings. Students work directly with an experienced, certified school librarian to develop practical competencies, including collaboration, literacy instruction, reading promotion, library management, and technology integration.
Prerequisite: LSSL 5337.
LSSL 5367. Research Design & Methodology. 3 Hours.
Students are introduced to research methods, project designs, and data-gathering instruments pertinent to libraries. Students learn to apply research techniques relevant to school libraries. An emphasis is placed on the development of a research or grant proposal. Required for MLS.
Prerequisite: LSSL 5337.
LSSL 5370. School Librarianship. 3 Hours.
Students analyze the design and development of curriculum that utilizes a systematic approach to instruction. An emphasis may be placed on explicitly stated objectives, appropriate teaching strategies, and production materials to facilitate achievement of goals using the latest in instructional technology.
LSSL 5380. Masters Seminar. 3 Hours.
Students engage in an in-depth study of specialized subjects; may be repeated as topics vary. Examples of topics may include: Multicultural literature; eBooks and audiobooks, and other variations in materials; nonfiction for children and young adults. Elective.
Prerequisite: Appropriate required courses and approval of the Department Chair.
LSSL 5385. Literature for Young Adults. 3 Hours.
Students explore the selection, critical analysis, and historical development of literature for young adults. Emphasis may be placed on selecting recreational and informational materials for young adults reflecting our multicultural society; identifying techniques, activities, and strategies that motivate young adults to read and respond to literature; and developing critical abilities for evaluating literature for young adults.
Prerequisite: LSSL 5360.
LSSL 5391. Digital Technology for the School Librarian. 3 Hours.
Students engage with digital technology for school librarians. Topics may include evaluation of digital resources, various search tools, and a variety of communication tools. In addition, students explore ethical issues related to the responsible use of digital technology, including a wide variety of curriculum connections.
LSSL 5396. Computer Science Applications to Librarianship. 3 Hours.
Students examine the history and status of automated library services, including the international standards, hardware, and commercial software available to support cataloging, circulation, online catalogs, reference services, and administrative tasks. Required for MLS.
LSSL 7088. Special Topics in School Library Leadership. 3 Hours.
Students pursue in-depth study of emerging issues, methodologies, or specialized content areas that align with their research interests but fall outside of the standard curriculum. Under faculty guidance, students design a focused learning experience that addresses timely scholarship relevant to their dissertation work or professional academic development.
Prerequisite: Approval of faculty advisor and department chair.
LSSL 7089. Independent Study in School Librarianship. 1-3 Hours.
Students pursue focused scholarly inquiry in a specialized area aligned with their dissertation research or professional academic interests. Under the close guidance of a faculty mentor, students engage in rigorous, self-directed investigation of theoretical, methodological, or applied questions that extend beyond standard curriculum offerings. Variable Credit: 1-3. Course Equivalents: LSSL 5375
Prerequisite: Approval of faculty advisor and department chair.
LSSL 7337. Administrative and Leadership Issues in School Librarianship. 3 Hours.
Students analyze issues related to the responsibilities of program directors of library media in school districts. Students conduct research and make inquiries into the development of effective strategies for planning and implementing organizational change in school libraries.
LSSL 7361. Literature & Related Materials for PreK-12 School Libraries. 3 Hours.
Students conduct research on issues of literacy related to school libraries and how literature specifically written for the PK-12 population may be used to promote and support development of literacy. This course involves advanced analysis and synthesis of the knowledge, skills, dispositions and ethics of school library leaders.
Prerequisite: Admission to Educational Leadership doctoral program with Library Science cognate.
LSSL 7366. School Library Doctoral Internship. 3 Hours.
Students cultivate an ethic of scholarship and are provided insight into the challenges surrounding the ethics thereof. Students exercise critical perspectives by engaging with the readings, their peers, other educators, and the instructor in class discussions, assignments, reflective journaling, and internship experiences.
Prerequisite: LSSL 7337, LSSL 7361, LSSL 7367, and LSSL 7370.
LSSL 7367. Research in Library Science. 3 Hours.
Students focus on development of useful research questions and methodologies, evaluation of approaches to narrowing gaps between knowledge and practice, means of providing administrative support for research activities, and development of collaborative strategies for implementing school library-related research studies across disciplines.
Prerequisite: Admission to Educational Leadership doctoral program with Library Science cognate.
LSSL 7370. Leadership in Tech & Info Literacy for School Libraries. 3 Hours.
Students research and analyze issues related to technology and information literacy. Topics may include: Collaboration between teachers and librarians; the role of librarians as technology leaders on school campuses; professional development and support for school faculty; technology as a tool for assessing student learning; ethical issues related to technology and information literacy; and selection and acquisition technology.
LSSL 7387. Field Study in Library Science. 3 Hours.
Students engage in a detailed investigation or problem in library science. Students work under the supervision of a Library Science faculty member and are expected to produce a written product or presentation regarding the field study. Permission of the Supervising Professor is required. D. Program and permission of the Supervising Professor.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Ed.
Director/Chair: Holly Ann Kizer Weimar
Rosemarie M Brock, PHD, Associate Professor of Library Science and Technology, Department of Library Sci & Technology, PHD, Texas Woman's University; MLS, Texas Woman's University; BA, Oklahoma State University
Thomas S Edelberg, PHD, Assistant Professor of Library Science and Technology, Department of Library Sci & Technology, PHD, Indiana University; MA, California St Un-Northridge; BA, Univ of Calif-Los Angeles
Elizabeth A Gross, PHD, Associate Professor of Library Science and Technology, Department of Library Sci & Technology, PHD, Wayne State University; MLIS, Wayne State University; BA, Northern Michigan University
Yao Huang, PHD, Assistant Professor of Library Science and Technology, Department of Library Sci & Technology, PHD, Florida State University; MS, The University of Memphis; BA, University of Electronic Science & Tech of China
Kimberly Campbell Kinnaird, PHD, Assistant Professor of Library Science, Department of Library Sci & Technology, PHD, Texas Woman's University; MLS, Texas Woman's University; BS, Texas A&M University
Kimberly N LaPrairie, PHD, Professor of Library Science and Technology, Department of Library Sci & Technology, PHD, LSU & A&M College; MED, Univ of Louisiana-Lafayette; BBA, Henderson State University
Karina Crystelle Quilantan-Garza, EDD, Assistant Professor of Library Science and Technology, Department of Library Sci & Technology, EDD, Sam Houston State University; MLS, Sam Houston State University; BA, Univ of Texas-Rio Grande Valley
Holly Ann Kizer Weimar, EDD, Professor and Chair of Library Science and Technology, Department of Library Sci & Technology, EDD, Univ of Houston-Main; EDD, Univ of Houston-Main; MLS, Sam Houston State University; MLS, Sam Houston State University; BSED, Stephen F Austin University; BSED, Stephen F Austin University


