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Structuration and social identity theories: Qualitative methodologies for determining skills and competencies for the information profession in the 21st century

Judith Broady‐Preston (Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, UK)

Performance Measurement and Metrics

ISSN: 1467-8047

Article publication date: 27 November 2009

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore qualitative methodologies appropriate to a research project investigating the boundaries and scope of the information profession, with specific reference to the skills/knowledge base and concepts of “professionalism”.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviewed and critically evaluated here are social theory frameworks, focusing particularly on Structuration theory.

Findings

Strong Structuration Theory either singly or in combination with Social Identity Theory, appears to offer a sound methodology to explore concepts of change, conflict and professional identity, from both micro and macro perspectives.

Research limitations/implications

Strong Structuration Theory stands as a powerful tool in discovering reconstituted “boundaries along which professions can build new strategies of legitimisation” and remake themselves.

Originality/value

This review provides a critical evaluation of some of the current methodologies available to help define professional expertise.

Keywords

Citation

Broady‐Preston, J. (2009), "Structuration and social identity theories: Qualitative methodologies for determining skills and competencies for the information profession in the 21st century", Performance Measurement and Metrics, Vol. 10 No. 3, pp. 172-179. https://doi.org/10.1108/14678040911014176

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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