Interpretative phenomenological analysis for LIS research

2015 ◽  
Vol 71 (2) ◽  
pp. 338-357 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amy VanScoy ◽  
Solveig Beyza Evenstad
Keyword(s):  
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Information Service ◽  
Phenomenological Analysis ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Phenomenological Method ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
Information Professionals

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview and evaluation of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) for the library and information science (LIS) community, as this method has only recently been used for exploring experiences of various phenomena related to LIS. Design/methodology/approach – IPA is discussed within the phenomenological tradition. Two examples of recent IPA studies are examined in parallel to show application of the IPA method. Issues and challenges of applying IPA to LIS research questions are discussed. Findings – IPA is an alternative phenomenological method, adding to the repertoire of qualitative methods used for LIS research. It was an effective method for exploring experience among information professionals: it was equally suitable for studying reference and information service work for academic library professionals and burnout experience for information and communication technology workers. Originality/value – Only a few LIS studies have used IPA and no discussion or evaluation of the method has been published for this field. This paper provides a discussion of the method for LIS researchers interested in this emerging phenomenological method.

Leading with love and hospitality: applying a radical pedagogy to LIS

2019 ◽  
Vol 120 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 119-132 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicole A. Cooke
Keyword(s):  
Classroom Management ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Ethnographic Case Study ◽  
Radical Pedagogy ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to suggest that classroom instructors should reflect and revise their pedagogy to lead a classroom designed to produce future information professionals who will be prepared to serve their communities in a radical way. Design/methodology/approach The paper reviews the literature related to radical and humanizing pedagogies and then features an auto ethnographic case study which details how the author implemented some of the strategies. Findings Formal study of pedagogy can improve the library and information science (LIS) teaching and learning process. Practical implications Examining pedagogy in a formal way yields concrete suggestions for improving classroom management and content delivery. Social implications Using a radical pedagogy can improve relationships between teachers and learners, and learners will be able to model the classroom strategies in their own professional practice. Originality/value The study builds upon current examples of radical practice in the field and examines how such practices can be instilled even earlier in LIS graduate classrooms.

The use of bibliographic management software by Indian library and information science professionals

2014 ◽  
Vol 42 (3) ◽  
pp. 499-513 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shri Ram ◽  
John Paul Anbu K.
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Management Software ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Dissemination Of Research ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Library Professionals

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to have a closer look at the awareness of referencing utilities among the library professionals in India. In a research environment, referencing and bibliography play an important role in the dissemination of research findings through scholarly writings. Citing references while writing scholarly articles has become more eloquent mainly due to the availability of a range of bibliography management utilities. Currently, there are various types of Bibliography Management Software (BMS) available for the management of the citation, referencing and compiling bibliographies. Librarians have a crucial role to play in helping the faculty, students and research scholars in the process of writing their scholarly articles and theses, especially in the area of referencing. Design/methodology/approach – The study was conducted through an online survey with an aim to assess the perception, awareness and use of BMS by the Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals in India. Findings – In the academic environment, published results of research findings are crucial for the advancement of knowledge. The published research findings are often supported and disputed using the citation of previous studies. There are a number of supporting technologies that are intended to help in procuring needed citations and streamlining them for better research output. The role of the librarian in this endeavor is undisputed. This study shows that there is a need for strengthening the awareness of BMS at the institutional level and also hands-on experience is needed for library professionals to help in the process of research writing and advocate for adopting correct referencing style (citation style) while writing scholarly articles. Practical implications – The increased use of information and communication technology in the process of scholarly writing, especially in the search and retrieval of relevant articles and the availability of electronic journals and books, have resulted in an increased number of research articles being written by research scholars. The downside to this overflow of scholarly and creative writing is the incorrect way of using referencing style in the dissemination of research and the possibilities of malpractice and plagiarism. This study will help in creating awareness of the utility of citation and BMS in content writing, especially among library and information professionals, as they play an important role in facilitating research. Social implications – This study will be beneficial for the LIS professionals in understanding the effectiveness of their services when complemented by the use of technology-powered tools. Creating awareness of the use of BMS in content development in scholarly communication promises to create a flawless scholarly output as library professionals will help researchers in guiding research writings with correct referencing and citation. Originality/value – Use of BMS helps in the development of content in an organized, methodical and scientific way. The role of library and information professionals working with different researchers and scholars in advocating and practicing the use of BMS will go a long way in creating more streamlined content.

A systematic literature review informing library and information professionals’ emerging roles

2015 ◽  
Vol 116 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 37-66 ◽  
Author(s):  
Evgenia Vassilakaki ◽  
Valentini Moniarou-Papaconstantinou
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Active Involvement ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Future Direction ◽  
Technology Specialists ◽  
Shed Light

Purpose – This paper aims to provide a systematic review of the specific roles information professionals have adopted in the past 14 years. It aims to identify the roles reported in the literature concerning developments in the Library and Information Science (LIS) profession. Design/methodology/approach – This study adopted the method of systematic review. Searches were conducted in February and March 2014 on different LIS databases. From a total of 600 papers, 114 were selected, based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. A thorough full-text analysis of the papers revealed six roles that librarians have adopted: teachers, technology specialists, embedded librarians, information consultants, knowledge managers and subject librarians. Findings – New and evolving roles were identified, mainly in the context of academic libraries. Librarians’ educational responsibilities and their active involvement in the learning and research process were highlighted in all role categories identified. Collaboration among faculty and librarians was reported as a way of ensuring successful instruction. Librarians’ personal views of their new and emerging roles were more frequently reported; further research is needed to shed light on academics, students and other users’ perceptions of librarians’ engagement in the learning process. Research limitations – The study considered only peer-reviewed papers published between 2000 and 2014 in English. It focused on information professionals’ roles and not on librarians’ skills and their changing professional responsibilities. Originality/value – This review paper considers the development of the LIS profession in a changing environment and offers an understanding of the future direction of the LIS profession.

Electronic and paper based data collection methods in library and information science research

2015 ◽  
Vol 116 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 588-609 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adeyinka Tella
Keyword(s):  
Data Collection ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Collection Method ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Electronic Data Collection ◽  
Data Collection Methods ◽  
Electronic Method ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Collection Methods

Purpose – This study aims to examine a comparative analysis of electronic- and paper-based data collection methods. Design/methodology/approach – Survey research approach was adopted to conduct the study. A total of 500 library and information science (LIS) researcher/information professionals selected randomly from seven states in Nigeria represent the sample for the study. A self-designed questionnaire was used to gather data from the respondents. Six objectives were developed to guide the study. Findings – The findings reveal that there is preference for paper-based than the electronic-based data collection methods, and similarly, respondents indicated they cannot use any other data collection methods other than paper-based. Electronic data collection method is beneficial in terms of gathering a representative sample within a short period compared to the paper-based method. The researcher has control over access to the survey in the paper-based method compared to the electronic method, and there is opportunity to monitor the progress of the research and clarify ambiguity by the researcher. The electronic method is limited in terms of collecting data from only the respondents who are computer-literate with good Web skills, while the paper-based method is limited by higher attrition rate, money and time consumption. Research limitations/implications – The study did not consider the time needed to gather data with each method or the amount of time needed for data entry, cleaning and coding. It is possible that a time-motion study would reveal clear superiority of either one method or the other. The total sample of participants in the study is also limited, considering the total number of LIS researcher/information professionals in Nigeria. Practical implications – The study has underlined the value of electronic/Web-based collection as a cost- and time-saving instrument in modern LIS research. Regardless of method and trial, electronic data collection could fulfill in all examined parameters, its promises, realizing cost savings of up to a 50 per cent in comparison with the paper-based data collection method. Originality/value – The paper is solely the idea of the author.

Role of social networks in library and information services in India: a case study of efficiency and effectiveness

2014 ◽  
Vol 31 (5) ◽  
pp. 11-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abdul Mannan Khan ◽  
Aslam Ansari
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Technology Literacy ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Efficiency And Effectiveness ◽  
Develop Technology ◽  
Information Professionals

Purpose – This study aims to examine the effective and efficiency account of social networking (SN) tools and how it affects communication with others and anticipatory awareness. Design/methodology/approach – For the purpose of the study, a set of questionnaires was prepared by the authors and furnished to information professionals. Findings – The findings disclose that some SN tools are gaining popularity among Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals in India. The most active professionals are aged 26-35 years; the habits of using SN are different from traditional searches for research purposes. The professionals provide opinion that SN is very effective to deliver LIS. Research limitations – The present study assesses the role of SN in LIS from information professionals of Indian science and technology institutions. Originality/value – SN is growing rapidly as a medium of communication between individuals to share their experiences and information regarding interests, and also helps to build ongoing relationships. In the field of LIS services, it may help to develop technology literacy and proficiency.

Exploring academic libraries’ use of Twitter: a content analysis

2015 ◽  
Vol 33 (6) ◽  
pp. 1002-1015 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sultan M. Al-Daihani ◽  
Suha A. AlAwadhi
Keyword(s):  
Content Analysis ◽  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Descriptive Analysis ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Science Literature ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Patterns Of Communication ◽  
Library Marketing

Purpose – This research aims to analyze academic libraries’ Twitter content and present a categorization framework for the study of their tweets. Design/methodology/approach – The research adopted a statistical descriptive analysis in addition to a content analysis of the tweets. Consequently, many categories and subcategories were created to classify the tweets according to different aspects. A total of 17 academic library accounts were examined. Findings – The findings show that academic libraries used Twitter as a multifaceted tool. “News and announcements” received the highest score as the type of information most often posted on Twitter by libraries, followed by “library collections” and “library services”. The subcategories that received the highest scores were “library marketing and news”, “answers and referrals” and “books”. Academic libraries showed a penchant for posting links more often than other content. Other results show different patterns of communication and interaction between libraries and their Twitter followers. Practical implications – The categorization of tweets provides a framework for understanding how academic libraries use Twitter. Originality/value – As little research can be found in the library and information science literature on Twitter content analysis, this research is expected to contribute significantly. It will also support academic libraries and librarians in using Twitter more efficiently and effectively.

Overcoming imposter syndrome: the adventures of two new instruction librarians

2019 ◽  
Vol 47 (3) ◽  
pp. 331-342
Author(s):  
Jessica Martinez ◽  
Meredith Forrey
Keyword(s):  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Library Science ◽  
Work Environments ◽  
First Year ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Library Instruction ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Imposter Phenomenon

Purpose New librarians rarely feel fully prepared for academic library instruction. This could be attributed to many factors in both Master of Library and Information Science programs and work environments. Imposter syndrome or imposter phenomenon is a common way this insecurity manifests. Imposter phenomenon, first defined in 1978, is an individual’s feeling that they will be exposed as a fraud, regardless of how qualified or knowledgeable they actually are. Throughout the first year as new instruction librarians, the authors tracked their experiences with instruction and the imposter phenomenon. This paper aims to illuminate how imposter phenomenon impacts library instruction, provide suggestions for individual librarians and identify what academic libraries can do institutionally to mitigate feelings of fraudulence among their employees. Design/methodology/approach This paper outlines the history and symptoms of imposter phenomenon, focusing on its presence in libraries. The authors draw on existing literature in psychology and library science, their own experience and a survey of 172 librarians. Suggestions for best practices for easing imposter phenomenon are then discussed based on the experiences of the authors and survey respondents. Findings This paper suggests several ways to ease the feelings of imposter phenomenon among those employed in academic libraries. Research limitations/implications This paper is based on the authors’ experiences, as well as a survey of 172 librarians. The survey was self-selecting, so the results may be skewed, but the themes apparent throughout the responses indicate that imposter phenomenon in libraries is pervasive and warrants further research. Practical implications The recommendations presented in this paper will provide new librarians and library administrators with concrete ways to identify and ameliorate imposter phenomenon among new instruction librarians. Originality/value Though imposter phenomenon has gained popular attention in wider society, extant research has not sufficiently addressed its role in the realm of academic library instruction. Given that most MLIS programs focus on theory rather than practice, finding ways to give new instruction librarians confidence in their positions is an area of research that warrants more exploration.

Internet of Things – potential for libraries

2016 ◽  
Vol 34 (2) ◽  
pp. 404-420 ◽  
Author(s):  
Magdalena Wójcik
Keyword(s):  
Internet Of Things ◽  
English Language ◽  
Information Science ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Modern Library ◽  
The Subject

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to subject the potential of Internet of Things (IoT) technology for libraries in terms of the possible scope and usage forms of this technology in public and academic library services. Design/methodology/approach – Based on analysis of the subject literature, the main areas of IoT applications in commercial institutions were identified, then an analysis of Library and Information Science English-language literature from the years 2010 to 2015 was conducted in order to create a profile of modern library services. The range of activities of commercial and non-commercial institutions were compared to ascertain if areas in which commercial entities using or planning to use IoT could also be an inspiration for libraries. In this way, a theoretical model of IoT use in library activities was developed. Findings – The research showed that IoT technology might have the potential to be used in library services and other activities, similar to how it is implemented in the commercial sector. Research limitations/implications – The aim of the paper is to determine the possible, not the actual, scope and forms of using this technology in public and academic libraries’ services. Practical implications – The results can be widely used in libraries as an inspiration for the use of IoT technology in modern library services. Social implications – The use of new technologies in libraries can help to improve the image of these institutions in the eyes of users, especially the younger generation. Originality/value – The use of IoT in libraries is a new issue that has not been studied much yet. The issue of using the potential of this technology for the needs of libraries has, in recent years, been raised at international conferences, become a subject of interest to librarian associations, and been widely discussed in the blogosphere, thus proving that this topic is important to practitioners. It is difficult, however, to find any scientific, comprehensive studies of this topic.

Informatics and data science: an overview for the information professional

2016 ◽  
Vol 32 (1) ◽  
pp. 7-10 ◽  
Author(s):  
H Frank Cervone
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Data Science ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Information Environment ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Professional ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Traditional Approaches ◽  
Information Landscape

Purpose – This paper aims to describe the emerging field of data science, its significance in the larger information landscape and some issues that distinguish the problems of data science and informatics from traditional approaches in the information sciences. Design/methodology/approach – Through a general overview of the topic, the author discusses some of the major aspects of how work in the data sciences and informatics differ from traditional library and information science. Findings – Data science and informatics, as emerging fields, are expanding our understanding of how the massive amount of information currently being generated can be collected, managed and used. While these may not be traditional “library” problems, the contributions of the library and information science communities are critical to help address aspects of these issues. Originality/value – The emerging fields of data science and informatics have not been extensively explored from the perspective of the information professional. This paper is designed to help information professionals better understand some of the implications of data science in a changing information environment.

Re-engineering LIS education to meet industrial needs for knowledge societies

2016 ◽  
Vol 49 (3) ◽  
pp. 313-319 ◽  
Author(s):  
Austin J.C. Mole ◽  
Chibuzo L. Dim ◽  
Millie N. Horsfall
Keyword(s):  
Information Science ◽  
Critical Examination ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Ict Skills ◽  
Key Factor ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Industrial Needs ◽  
Library Profession ◽  
Ict Competencies

The aim of this paper is to examine the concept and characteristics of library and information science (LIS) vis-à-vis knowledge societies, and the emerging ICT skills in librarianship for knowledge societies. In addition, the study recommends strategies for enhancing the training of LIS professionals to meet industrial needs for knowledge societies. The researcher employed conceptual framework and critical examination to explore the concept of re-engineering LIS education, the state of LIS education and the requirements for meeting industrial needs for knowledge societies. There is a need to review the content and method of LIS education to inject more ICT content and approaches. If implemented, this will open up new avenues not only for the user community but also for the library profession. LIS constitutes a key factor in creating, developing and maintaining knowledge societies. To be able to achieve this, LIS education must equip library and information professionals with relevant ICT competencies. Consequently, there is need for re-engineering of LIS education in the area of methods and content of training for the LIS profession so as to meet industrial needs for knowledge societies. The value of this study lies in its exposition of the contemporary industrial needs and expectations of LIS education especially in the area of information and communication technology.

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