Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Abstract
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have greatly influenced access, management and dissemination of information. ICTs have become central to education and training in Library and Information Science/Service (LIS) because of the great influence of these technologies on the professional world. Information professionals are increasingly required to adapt their skills and practice in order to gain an awareness of technological advances. It has changed their role in the workplace with new and diverse skills requirements. The purpose of this study was to examine how Library and Information Science (LIS) schools are integrating ICTs in their curriculum. The study was largely qualitative with content analysis being conducted on LIS modules to determine ICT coverage. A brief questionnaire was also distributed to the LIS Schools to ascertain the level of infrastructure and other resources available to support these programmes. The findings revealed that LIS schools were incorporating ICT skills in the courses taught. The study observed however that there are some courses which required ICT skills integration but were still being taught at theoretical level. Challenges faced by the LIS schools included infrastructure, hardware and internet access. The study recommends for an accelerated integration of ICTs in the courses in order to meet the requirements of industry and employers.