Identifying Approach and Methodology for the Continued Progress of Library Studies and Information Management

Abstract

In this study, the writer explored the approaches and methodologies essential for the continued progress of library studies and information management at the School of Library and Information Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The primary objective was to identify the necessary skills, approaches, methodologies, and barriers to acquiring skills needed for the continued advancement in this field. The study was guided by four research questions and employed a descriptive survey as the research design. The population comprised 185 library and information science undergraduates, with a sample of 100 selected using purposive and stratified random sampling techniques. Data was collected via a questionnaire and analyzed using the simple mean method. Findings revealed that necessary skills include marketing, teaching, leadership, human resource management, communication, IT-related skills, and evaluating and reporting skills. Effective approaches and methodologies for acquiring these skills involve increasing student-centered educational opportunities, integrating information technologies, adapting curricula to diverse professions, and developing new engagement models. Barriers identified included traditional curricula limitations and core ICT courses being elective. Strategies for overcoming these barriers included revamping the current compartmentalized curricula.

Introduction

Library studies and information management have undergone significant changes over the years, with advancements in technology playing a crucial role. This study aims to identify approaches and methodologies to ensure continued progress in this field, focusing on the School of Library and Information Science at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

Objectives of the Study

The study aims to:

Identify the necessary skills for the continued progress of library studies and information management.

Explore the approaches and methodologies to acquire these skills.

Identify barriers to acquiring these skills.

Suggest strategies to overcome these barriers.

Research Questions

What are the necessary skills needed for the continued progress of library studies and information management?

What approaches and methodologies can be used to acquire these skills?

What are the barriers to acquiring these skills?

What strategies can be employed to overcome these barriers?

Methodology

Research Design

A descriptive survey design was used to conduct the study. This design was chosen to gather detailed information about the current status and future needs of library studies and information management.

Population and Sample

The population of the study consisted of 185 undergraduate students from the School of Library and Information Science at Nnamdi Azikiwe University. A sample of 100 students was selected using purposive and stratified random sampling techniques to ensure representation across different levels of study.

Data Collection Instrument

A questionnaire was used to collect data. The questionnaire was designed based on the research objectives and included items that addressed the necessary skills, approaches, methodologies, barriers, and strategies.

Findings

Necessary Skills

The study identified several key skills necessary for the continued progress of library studies and information management:

Marketing and Teaching Skills: Essential for promoting library services and educating users.

Leadership and Human Resource Management Skills: Critical for managing library staff and resources effectively.

Communication Skills: Important for interacting with library users and stakeholders.

IT-Related Skills: Necessary for managing digital resources and utilizing new technologies.

Evaluating and Reporting Skills: Important for assessing library services and reporting outcomes.

Approaches and Methodologies

The study identified various approaches and methodologies to acquire these skills:

Increasing Student-Centered Educational Opportunities: Emphasizing hands-on learning and practical experience.

Developing Concepts Surrounding Information Technologies: Integrating IT skills into the curriculum.

Adapting Curricula to Reflect More Diverse Professions: Including courses that cover a broader range of skills and knowledge areas.

Helping Students Develop New Models and Skills for Engagements: Encouraging innovative thinking and problem-solving.

Barriers to Acquiring Skills

Several barriers were identified that hinder the acquisition of necessary skills:

Traditional Curricula: Current curricula focus mainly on traditional library systems, limiting exposure to modern practices.

Elective ICT Courses: Core ICT courses are often offered as electives, reducing their accessibility to all students.

Strategies to Overcome Barriers

To overcome these barriers, the study suggested the following strategies:

Revamping Present Curricula: Updating curricula to include modern practices and technologies.

Compartmentalizing Courses: Ensuring that core courses, especially in ICT, are mandatory for all students.

Conclusion

The continued progress of library studies and information management depends on equipping students with relevant skills and knowledge. By adopting student-centered approaches, integrating information technologies, and updating curricula, educational institutions can prepare students for the evolving demands of the profession. Addressing barriers and implementing effective strategies will ensure that future graduates are well-equipped to contribute to the field of library studies and information management.

FAQs

1. What are the most important skills for library studies and information management?

The most important skills include marketing, teaching, leadership, human resource management, communication, IT-related skills, and evaluating and reporting skills.

2. How can students acquire these skills?

Students can acquire these skills through student-centered educational opportunities, integrating IT concepts into the curriculum, and adapting curricula to include diverse professions.

3. What are the main barriers to acquiring these skills?

The main barriers include traditional curricula that focus on outdated practices and the elective nature of core ICT courses.

4. How can these barriers be overcome?

These barriers can be overcome by revamping curricula to include modern practices and technologies, and ensuring that core courses, especially in ICT, are mandatory.

5. Why is it important to update the curricula for library studies and information management?

Updating the curricula is important to ensure that students are prepared for the evolving demands of the profession and are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed.