Current Trends in Library and Information Studies Curricula

Abstract

The present study presents an analysis of curricula offered at library and information studies departments in different parts of the world. Data was collected from the websites of 30 departments in 21 countries and coded based on the typology proposed by Wilson in 2001. This typology proposes five major subject fields that can be combined to better represent the complexities present in the curricula. The analysis of curricula in the sample revealed that the five subject fields proposed by Wilson's typology are present in the sample. The category scheme presents a long list of categories that represent different combinations between the five subject fields, revealing a sample of curricula centered on information and technology subjects that emphasize users' needs. Findings show that the largest percentage of the courses examined relates to information content in general and to content provided to specific groups of users. Technology courses are the second major category present in the curricula examined. The examination also revealed an additional and important category, not found in Wilson's original typology, which encompasses supporting non-library related courses. This category is the third largest category in the sample and it reflects an interdisciplinary trend in the curricula examined that aims at providing students with knowledge in subject areas not related to information and librarianship.