Information literacy for the information profession: experiences from Aberystwyth

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report on the rationale and key learning processes for students of librarianship and information studies (LIS) at the Department of Information Studies, University of Wales Aberystwyth. Its purpose is to raise awareness of the ways in which professional training can incorporate research, and ultimately inform professional practice, and to describe the way in which recent research can be used to shape the curriculum.Design/methodology/approachA literature review, identification of key principles for curriculum development, and discussion of processes is provided. Key learning outcomes for the course are put forward and the approach taken to them described.FindingsThe description and discussion offered outline key questions for the development of courses aimed at future professionals.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper describes the approach taken to address the needs of professional practice in one course, and from one perspective.Originality/valueThis is one of few papers that describe the rationale of LIS courses for information literacy. Elsewhere the focus of papers is on teaching information literacy to non‐LIS audiences.