Web 2.0 in library and information science education: the Greek case

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to find out what the Greek library and information science (LIS) students want from their studies concerning the use of Web 2.0 in education. Based on the results of this study, this paper will seek to identify problems and propose solutions that will tackle students' needs and improve the quality of their studies. Design/methodology/approach - A web-based questionnaire was distributed to students of the Library Science and Information Systems (LSIS) Department of ATEI of Thessaloniki, Greece. Students had to answer 61 questions, divided into ten sections about Web 2.0 tools. First, they were asked to state the knowledge and personal experience on Web 2.0 tools and then to express their views for the LIS curriculum and the use of Web 2.0. Interviews with four members of staff from the LSIS Department were followed in order to review the research findings and express their views concerning Web 2.0 and LIS education. Findings - This research revealed that most of the students are aware of the majority of Web 2.0 tools. Thus, they are willing to attend training concerning Web 2.0 because they believe this will enrich their knowledge on the subject. Blogs and wikis are the first choices of the tools they would like to learn about. Students believe that computer scientists are more qualified to teach Web 2.0 tools, while some respond that cooperation between librarians and computer scientists will be to the benefit of the profession. As advantages of using Web 2.0 they name acquiring new knowledge and facilitation with the assignments. The faculty staff have positive views introducing Web 2.0 tools in classes as a way of communicating with students but they feel that it is too early for these tools to play a learning role in LIS teaching. Originality/value - The implementation of Web 2.0 in schools, especially LIS departments, is very important nowadays. There are only a few studies about Web 2.0 in Greece. This study will help LIS faculty to understand students' needs about Web 2.0 in order to improve their units and LIS curriculum and adopt Web 2.0 applications to their classes. On the other hand this research records for the first time the views of the Greek faculty members concerning Web 2.0 and social networks.