New directions for information education: Perspectives of the stakeholders

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Marouf, Laila | ur Rehman, Sajjad

Affiliations: Department of Library and Information Science, Kuwait University, PO Box 5969, Safat 13060, Kuwait. E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]

Abstract: This study was conducted with the purpose of assessing the Master's program in Library and Information Science at Kuwait University as well as its further development, based on the insights and perceptions of employers, professionals, academics, and students. Three focus group interviews with 32 participants were conducted during spring 2006. Participants identified four competency areas – ICT, business, LIS skills, and social and personal attributes – that MLIS graduates needed to master in order to be able to work in the private sector. In addition, the participants proposed a number of strategies that could enhance employment opportunities for LIS graduates in the corporate sector. They also identified deficiencies that inhibited career opportunities among the LIS graduates, of which IT competencies were recognized to be the most deficient. Participants proposed a number of change strategies in the LIS program that included designing different tracks in the Masters program, change in the name of the program and department, and creating internship opportunities for MLIS graduates in companies.

DOI: 10.3233/EFI-2007-253-404

Journal: Education for Information, vol. 25, no. 3-4, pp. 195-209, 2007