Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - HIST 303 D100

STT-Critical Information Literacy in the Humanities and Social Sciences (3)

Class Number: 4720

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    45 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces knowledge and methods necessary to understand and navigate the landscape of information for scholarly research in the humanities and social sciences. Emphasis will be placed on the sociopolitical dimensions of information and knowledge production, and the ways in which systems of power shape everyday information creation, distribution, and access. Students with credit for FASS 303 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

How do we find the information we need? From research papers and academic presentations to workplace projects and deep-dives into our latest obsessions, much of our academic, professional, and personal lives are spent seeking information. And yet, few of us are taught how to navigate information systems, and to understand them as tools that reflect the structures of social, political, and economic dominance that created them. If you have found yourself trying to do research for any purpose, but have been overwhelmed and unsure about how it all works, then you may be interested in this class! Together, we will learn about information systems we use in scholarly research, gain an understanding of how power works through information, and develop a critical approach to research.

 

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Determine the extent and nature of information needed in a variety of research contexts.
  • Locate reliable information effectively and follow the steps of a research inquiry in order to be prepared for university level research.
  • Evaluate information and its sources critically.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of cultural, ethical, social, and economic issues surrounding the production and use of information.
  • Develop the knowledge and skills needed to successfully conceptualize, find, analyze, and use primary sources.
  • Reflect on the scope, value, and limitations of dominant and alternative systems of knowledge and knowledge organization.

Grading

  • Attendance and seminar participation 25%
  • Short reflection papers 20%
  • Presentation 25%
  • Research strategy assignment 30%

NOTES:

Students who required specific accommodations are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112)

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be free and available online and/or via the library.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Learn more about studing History at SFU:

History areas of study


Why study History?

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.