Exploration of LIS professionals efforts in Pakistan towards the improvements of technological competencies in 21st century
Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication
ISSN: 2514-9342
Article publication date: 3 November 2022
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this qualitative study is to investigate/review the skills required for library and information science (LIS) professionals in the 21st century and to propose an alternative approach as the suggested key skills.
Design/methodology/approach
Twenty-two LIS professionals from Pakistan were interviewed, and 10 LIS professionals were from abroad, including two from the USA; six respondents were from Saudi Arabia; one from Canada; and one from Malaysia. In-depth interviews with faculty members were conducted to ascertain their perceptions of the knowledge and skills necessary to be competent in delivering quality education to the future information breed.
Findings
The findings emphasise the importance of a variety of competencies for librarians and information educators, including subject knowledge and skills; information technology knowledge and skills; instructional skills; research skills; and managerial, leadership and social skills. Additionally, it was noted that LIS professionals require a diverse set of skills that should be fostered by educators and employers. By promoting these in the broader community, the author can encourage the next generation of LIS professionals to consider LIS as a viable career option.
Originality/value
The findings presented in this paper provide a unique window into the country’s workforce needs. Though the study was conducted from a Pakistani perspective, the findings may have implications for other countries with comparable circumstances, including social impact. It also provides a new analysis of the selected generic and LIS skills that can be communicated in an innovative manner to prospective LIS employees, employers and educators.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors are thankful to Dr Pei Lei (Professor, Associate Dean, Faculty of Information Management, NJU, China) for his generous support and throughout guidance in the conductance of this research work. This work was not possible without him as he is the supervisor of this work. Special thanks to all our Chinese friends, especially my Best friend (Chen Tianyu), classmates and faculty members, Department of Information Management, NJU, China, for their encouragement, support, and always welcoming attitudes.
Citation
Shah, S.H., Shah, N.U. and Jbeen, A. (2022), "Exploration of LIS professionals efforts in Pakistan towards the improvements of technological competencies in 21st century", Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/GKMC-04-2022-0088
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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