(Re) Shaping and expanding LIS education in the Caribbean: An examination of strategic and transformational responses of the DLIS, University of the West Indies, Mona.

Kerr, Paulette; Stewart, Paulette

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Description

Title

(Re) Shaping and expanding LIS education in the Caribbean: An examination of strategic and transformational responses of the DLIS, University of the West Indies, Mona.

Author(s)

• Kerr, Paulette
• Stewart, Paulette

Issue Date

2019-09-24

Keyword(s)

• Library and information science education
• Caribbean
• University of the West Indies Mona Jamaica
• Library and information science curricula
• Information professionals
• Information environment
• Graduate curriculum
• Undergraduate curriculum

Abstract

Significant changes in LIS education in the last 2 decades have resulted from varied impacts and drivers. Bronstein speaks to an “information paradigm shift” towards more user-centered approaches in information delivery, a resulting transformation of the roles of information professionals and the nature of their work and their competencies (2007; 2009; 2015). This paper details the recent experience of the Department of Library and Information Studies, (DLIS) at The University of the West Indies,(UWI) Mona, while responding to demands for a new and expanded LIS curriculum, repositioned itself as a “best- practice” model for pedagogy and program change within a Faculty of Humanities and Education. The paper examines the vision, mandates and drivers as well as strategic, and in some instances radical, and contentious responses of the DLIS to changing institutional, societal, and global expectations and needs. Processes, strategies and challenges involved in identifying broad and specific career needs for information professionals within the Caribbean are discussed. Indicators of success are also addressed in relation to the drivers and mandates and include a new graduate program in Archives and Records Management, a cross-disciplinary undergraduate program in Information Studies, increased student intake from a wider cross-section of the Caribbean via online and blended offerings, and spinoffs such as development of SMART classrooms to facilitate online teaching and learning, increased uptake for professional development programs, and a repositioned DLIS within The UWI, Mona.

Series/Report Name or Number

• Education
• Curriculum
• Information needs

Type of Resource

text

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http://hdl.handle.net/2142/105340

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