Crisis-Management Content in LIS Curricula: Developing a Model for Future Improvement |
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| Authors: | Bibi M Alajmi Charlene L Al-Qallaf |
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| Institution: | 1. Assistant Professor, Department of Information Studies, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait.bibi.alajmi@ku.edu.kw;3. Associate Professor, Department of Information Studies, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait. |
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| Abstract: | AbstractAlthough the field of crisis management has grown considerably, academic curricula do not seem to have kept pace. This study investigates how library and information science (LIS) programs are addressing the need to provide adequate and relevant crisis management course content, so as to better empower librarians and other information professionals during community-based disasters and unpredictable circumstances. Twenty-eight ALA-accredited MLIS programs were evaluated. A four-phase model for evaluating crisis management content in LIS education (CM-LIS) has been developed. Crisis management topics were identified and categorized under the four phases: landscape survey, strategic planning, crisis management, and organizational learning. Six broad LIS subject modules were also identified to analyze the percentage of coverage of these topics. In the 264 course syllabi evaluated, curricula indirectly prepare librarians on how to meet and respond to crises and disasters within their communities; however, in many cases, this is given low priority. There is not a strong consideration for natural disasters and the societal calamities and unrest that dominate the media and occupy the minds of individual communities. This study gives insight into crisis-management education within LIS graduate degrees and should stimulate additional research to further investigate the preparedness of librarians and other information professionals to interact with communities in need in times of crises. |
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| Keywords: | crisis management disaster planning disaster preparedness social unrest LIS curricula competencies |
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