ERIC Number: EJ1073572
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0748-5786
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Available Date: N/A
Competencies for Information Professionals in Learning Labs and Makerspaces
Koh, Kyungwon; Abbas, June
Journal of Education for Library and Information Science, v56 n2 p114-129 Spr 2015
An increasing number of libraries and museums provide transformative learning spaces, often called "Learning Labs" and "Makerspaces." These spaces invite users to explore traditional and digital media, interact with mentors and peers, and engage in creative projects. For these spaces and programs to be sustainable, it is essential that they are staffed by qualified professionals and support staff. This research study investigated the competencies required for the successful performance of professionals in library and museum learning spaces. Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with professionals working in leading learning spaces in the U.S. The findings include top competencies (e.g., ability to learn, adapt to new situations, collaborate, serve as an advocate, and serve diverse people) and skills (e.g., management, program development, grant writing, technology, and facilitating learning) required for professionals, as well as relevance of higher education to prepare them for their current positions. The study generated curricular design implications for LIS educators with an emphasis on teaching and learning with technologies.
Descriptors: Librarians, Library Personnel, Interviews, Higher Education, Library Education, Curriculum Design, Educational Technology, Technology Uses in Education, Learning Laboratories, Shared Resources and Services, Museums, Public Libraries, Competence, Educational Attainment, Experience, Gender Differences, Job Skills, Employment Qualifications, Relevance (Education)
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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Author Affiliations: N/A