Education curricula need constant updates in response to job market requirements, which may be influenced by the changing technological environment. In the library and information science (LIS) job market there are dynamics brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). These dynamics call for LIS schools to reconsider their curricula in…

In the context of an evolving digitally-oriented library and/or information science (LIS) discipline and framed by Andrew Abbott's Chaos of Disciplines theory, this article presents an epistemological overview of evolving competency requirements for a global digital information environment and the implications of this for future LIS education. In…

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of recognition of prior learning (RPL) as an alternative tool for access into learning programmes in South African Library and Information Science (LIS) schools. Design/methodology/approach: The study adopted quantitative methods, and utilised questionnaires and document analysis to…

Introduction: This study aims to gain a greater understanding of the development of open access practices amongst library and information science authors, since their role is integral to the success of the broader open access movement. Method: Data were collected from scholarly articles about open access by library and information science authors…

As library and information science (LIS) becomes an increasingly technology-driven profession, particularly in the academic library environment, questions arise as to the extent of information technology (IT) knowledge and skills that LIS professionals require. The purpose of this paper is to ascertain what IT knowledge and skills are needed by…

The Freedom Charter of the African National Congress (ANC), the triumphant South African liberation movement, proclaims that "the doors of learning shall be open" for all. Twenty years since coming to power, the doors of the universities are struggling to stay open for adult student-workers. An action research project into implementation…

The issue of what constitutes or should constitute the "core" in library and/or information science (LIS) education and training is one that is frequently debated. This article reviews literature related to this matter and cites findings from an empirical study conducted in South Africa on library and/or information science education and…

The South African experience illustrates the developmental role that information services can play in the change process. Resource centers can empower people by providing access to information. The library and information science profession is facing challenges in formation of information policy in the postapartheid state. (SK)

This directory of 14 units at universities offering programs in librarianship and information science and their professional personnel provides a descriptive overview of the extent and variety of training in these fields available in South Africa in 1979. It includes, in separate sections, a directory of institutions; information about…

Literature on general education in higher education generally and in library and/or information science education and training specifically, is reviewed. Drawing from this review and from the findings of an empirical study conducted in South Africa, this article discusses curriculum development in LIS education and training in both the university…

A collection of nine commissioned papers, one each from Scotland and South Africa and eight from Australia, address provisions for and problems with distance education for librarianship. Components and applications of directed private study in Scotland and the development, educational philosophy, methods, problems, and standards of correspondence…

Fifteen papers from the University of South Africa's Conference on Distance Education are presented on professional education and practical training. They include: "Essential and Professional Education of Physics Teachers in Poland" (Kazimierz A. Badziag); "Vocational Teaching at a Distance: The New Zealand Perspective" (Dave…

The IFLA/FAIFE World Report Series is unique. It is the only source based on a systematic data collection process that provides an overview of how libraries around the world are tackling barriers to freedom of access to information and freedom of expression. This year's edition includes 84 country reports which detail the extent of Internet access…

Reports the findings of a survey of South African university and technikon libraries that investigated annual reports and their use outside of the issuing institution. Highlights include the purpose of annual reports; issues included; recipients of the reports; promotion and distribution; availability; and feedback. (Author/LRW)