New Structures of Continuing Professional Education for Information Professionals in Developing Countries: Challenge of Knowledge Management

Abstract

Today humanity has to face an important technological revolution, that of knowledge production and distribution. In this context, particular attention must be given to knowledge management, and consequently to the training of information specialists who need continuing professional education (CPE) to improve their knowledge management skills. To meet this aim a CPE strategy must be established and must take into account the inadequacy between training and the needs of the market, the fast multiplication of work tools for information specialists, and the diversity of the needs of information and documentation centers. In addition to the traditional modes, online CPE can be offered to information specialists. This can be an alternative to situations where traditional training is not available or no longer sufficient. Nevertheless, the notion of online education is still at its beginning. Schools of library and information science (LIS) and professional associations must work hand in hand for the success of CPE programs. Schools of LIS must, first, actualize their curricula in accordance with the new context of an information society, and second, elaborate a solid program of CPE to improve the work of information professionals. Professional associations must propose a CPE method that will comply with the real needs of the managerial staff of the different sectors in the field. Nevertheless, in developing countries, professional associations find it difficult to organize CPE sessions, due mainly to the limited number of their adherents, and to the insufficiency of material and financial resources. Organizations such as IFLA have a leading role to play in the matter, with responsibility to provide the basic instruments for the conduct of adequate CPE.