Course Objectives:

At the conclusion of this course it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Describe the historical development, current trends, and enduring characteristics of young adult literature. [NOTE: The term ?literature? is used broadly to refer to works in all media.]
• Identify current reading, viewing, and listening interests of young adults and incorporate these findings into collection development and program planning.
• Apply factual and interpretive information on adolescent psychology, growth and development, sociology, and popular culture in planning for materials and services for young adults.
• Recognize literary elements in story and apply critical judgments to selected literature.
• Use Reader-Response, Feminist and other literary theories in working with young adult literature.
• Interpret current research on young adult reading, information needs, and library usage and apply it to selecting materials for young adults.
• Devise and publicize pathfinders, book lists, powerpoints, displays, etc. which will facilitate access to collections and motivate use.
• Develop a materials collection plan for young adults which includes all appropriate formats, using a broad range of selection sources.
• Select and use appropriate tools in collection building and user guidance; analyze and criticize the usefulness of the tools in terms of coverage, cost and special features.
• Develop a plan for a variety of information services (e.g., information referral, crisis intervention counseling, etc.) to meet the diverse needs of young adult populations.

It is further expected that students will acquire the following skills:

• Evaluation and selection of materials
• The use of critical abilities in the discussion (both oral and written) of various media for young adults
• Interpretation and evaluation of research relating to young adult materials.