Redesigning LIS Curriculum for a Changing Market: the Case of Kuwait University

Abstract

The library and information science (LIS) market is fast changing, and the LIS curriculum needs to be revised in the light of this changing context and needs. An analysis was therefore made of the perceptions and views of a variety of stakeholders in the market about the capabilities needed among LIS graduates in Kuwait. The stakeholders included LIS students, alumni, faculty, professional leadership, library employers, and corporate managers. This exercise resulted in the identification of competencies around which the curriculum for the Master's program at Kuwait University has been redesigned. A new degree program has been designed, and new names for both the degree and department have been proposed. The curriculum has a new core, three areas of specialization, and facilitates diverse career options. This paper reviews the process of the analysis of market needs, identification of course modules, development of the proposal, and the review process at different levels of the academic hierarchy of the university. The process is complex and prone to resistance and opposition; therefore it must be managed with strategic vision, engagement, and political acumen.

Library and information science as a career in Kuwait

“…The above literature suggested maintaining and developing the required LIS courses according to the job market (Baruah and Hangsing, 2012; Johnston and Williams, 2015; Triumph and Beile, 2015). Similar research in Kuwait and the Arabian Gulf region focused on curricula updating (Alqudsi-ghabra and Al-Muomen, 2012; Buarki et al, 2011a, 2011b; Saleem and Al-suqri, 2012; Ur Rehman, 2010, 2016) students and alumni’ ICT skills updating (Alqudsi-ghabra and Al-Muomen, 2012; Buarki et al, 2011a, 2011b, Saleem and Al-suqri, 2012), faculty members’ professional development (Buarki et al, 2011a, 2011b; Ur Rehman, 2016) and the improvement of professional development programmes (Johnston and Williams, 2015), little is known to tackle the alumni skills, what skills they gained and what is practiced at the workplace. Therefore, this research will focus on the job market and its needs from the point view of the LIS alumni at PAAET (currently employed in different organisations) in an attempt to redesign/develop the curriculum according to those needs.…”

“…Ur Rehman (2010) urged the need to revise the MIS curriculum in light of the changing job market requirements in Kuwait. He analysed the perceptions of stakeholders in skills needed among MIS alumni at KU; the results suggested redesigning the curriculum.…”

“…The programme aims to prepare librarians to gain specialised skills and is considered a route to employment in academic teaching/training positions. The last time the programme went to external evaluation to adjust its curriculum was in 2010 (Ur Rehman, 2010).…”

An exploration of the library and information science professional skills and personal competencies: An Israeli perspective

“…RileyHuff and Rholes (2011) posited that there appears to be a clear need for additional technological courses at a more advanced level. Other studies have presented specific efforts of LIS departments around the world that have undergone major assessment projects resulting in new and innovative curricula (Edegbo, 2010;Hider et al, 2011;Marouf & ur Rehman, 2007;Toshimori, Mizoue, & Matsumoto, 2010;ur Rehman, 2010).…”

“…(Mackenzie, 2007, p. 120). This statement reflects the complex and ever-changing nature of the library and information science fields that constantly requires LIS professionals to expand the boundaries of their professional skills and personal competencies (Cox & Corrall, 2013;Partridge, Lee & Munro, 2010;Singh & Pinki, 2009;ur Rehman, 2010). A skill is a practical ability, a facility in carrying out an action, whereas competency is defined as an attribute that influences how an individual uses skills and interacts with the world (Singh & Pinki, 2009).…”