What if? Exploring alternative models for professional LIS education

Abstract

This article aims to stimulate discussion about whether the current structure of postgraduate library education, largely unchanged for over 60 years, is still the best option, given the ways in which professional library positions increasingly require specialised knowledge and skills. Comparative cases from selected New Zealand professions, including medicine, law, teaching, and accounting, are used to identify common characteristics of practice-based professional education, including education for specialisations which typically follow the basic degree. The article suggests that trends affecting library work create an opportunity to consider alternative models, including undergraduate education and advanced specialised qualifications. 

This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis Group in The Australian Library Journal on 2 October 2016, available online: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00049670.2016.1238433

The authors have given permission for this accepted manuscript to be made available.