B.1. Explanation of Content

The state-of-the-art paper is an overview of the research literature that is relevant to a topic in one of the areas germane to information science. It is submitted in conjunction with a research plan as part of the comprehensive examination.

The state-of-the-art paper is a critical essay that explores the literature of the selected topic. In an original paper, the student is to identify, integrate, and evaluate the relevant literature on the topic. The state-of-the-art paper is not simply a review of the literature, but rather it characterizes and evaluates the literature.

A major objective of the state-of-the-art paper is to demonstrate that the student is capable of considering a mass of data and sharpening it to point to significant research issues for the profession.

The state-of-the-art paper has two main purposes:

1. to answer the question, "What is the extent of our knowledge within the field being studied?" and
2. to assure the student's comprehensive examination committee of the student's ability to select an area of interest within information science and identify, integrate, and evaluate its research literature. The resulting essay is to be concise, informative, and evaluative.

The student is responsible for mastery of the subject matter and the general area of the state-of-the-art paper in the oral session of the comprehensive examination and should be prepared to answer general or specific questions arising from the paper submitted and about the area from which it is derived.

B. 2. Requirements for the State-of-the-Art Paper

The paper is a formal presentation that must be consistent with the University's Style and Form Manual in terms of organization, writing style, and presentation of references.

The paper must be submitted to the student's advisor for comment on its acceptability before it is distributed to the committee. This submission does not constitute acceptance of the state-of-the-art paper but confirms that the paper meets the requirem ents for submission. The final version must be submitted to the advisor for circulation to the comprehensive examination committee at least two weeks prior to the date for the oral exam. Copies of the paper are provided by the student at his or her own ex pense.

Criteria for acceptance of the "state-of-the-art" paper are that it:

1. is an original work;
2. places the topic in a broad context and gives the reader a clear perception of the subject;
3. is thorough and comprehensive yet thoughtfully synthesized;
4. is logical, analytical, and evaluative;
5. characterizes the literature and appropriately targets the research needs of the topic area.