Information For Science
Science is a rigorous, systematic endeavor that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the world.
Information science is a broad, interdisciplinary field that studies the collection, classification, manipulation, storage, retrieval, movement, and dissemination of information. It is often (mistakenly) considered to be a branch of computer science.
What is information?
Whether it’s scientifically validating a vaccine or finding ways to feed 9 billion people, science needs the right information. That’s why science literacy — the ability to understand and interpret scientific data and explanations — is so important today.
Scientists collect information through observations of natural or man-made phenomena, experiments, and computer simulations. Then they use that information to develop testable explanations of the world around them. This process allows scientists to make informed decisions, solve problems and improve life on earth.
Information science (sometimes called information studies or information systems) is an interdisciplinary field that analyzes the collection, classification, manipulation, storage, retrieval, movement, dissemination and protection of information. It’s not to be confused with information theory, or with library science or computer science, although some of those fields use aspects of information science. The term “information” is also used to refer to the content of a document or publication, including its metadata. The metadata is the collection of information about a resource, such as its author, title and subject headings.
How does information science work?
Information science researchers study the properties and behavior of information in order to improve its accessibility and usability. They work on projects in a variety of fields, including library science, computer engineering, archival and records management, and information security.
Career opportunities in information science are diverse and exciting. You can find positions in nearly any industry that relies on technology for customer data, financial transactions or information security. Information science professionals also can find employment in libraries, archives and museums.
The information science field is a rapidly expanding one, and its practitioners continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. For example, some libraries are now offering their patrons access to 3-D printers, allowing them to create prototypes and other custom fields and research equipment for very little cost. Other libraries are incorporating virtual reality into their collections to help their patrons access museums, special collections and archives from around the world. These technological expansions of the traditional library field present new opportunities for those interested in a career in information science.
What are the career opportunities in information science?
The study of information science is a broad field that encompasses a large number of topics. For example, it includes the study of human-computer interaction and groupware – software that allows people to work together on projects. It also includes studies of the semantic web and iterative design processes.
Moreover, the study of information science is often conducted in conjunction with other disciplines such as library science, computer engineering and management. This has led to the development of many specializations in the field. These include archives and records management, information architecture and website design and computer engineering.
One of the most popular careers for information science majors is as a computer and information systems manager. These professionals are responsible for managing the large amounts of data that companies generate. They analyze this data and turn it into actionable business intelligence. They also oversee the implementation and maintenance of computer hardware and software. This is a highly demanding career that offers good pay.