Showing papers in "International Information & Library Review in 1997"

Media accessibility and utilization by Kenyan rural women

Abstract: This study aims to establish the level of media accessibility and use by the Kenyan rural women in the Kinangop area, with the assumption that media can play an important role for the improvement of their welfare. A survey, using the critical incidence method, was used to gather data by probing person-to-person through interviews and questionnaires. 104 women were sampled from 31 170 women using multistage sampling technique, and interviewed. Ten questionnaires were distributed to key informants who hold leading positions for the improvement of social welfare in the area. The data was analysed by use of descriptive statistics. The study revealed that women require mainly health and agricultural information. Because of low literacy, the majority of the women cannot comprehend radio transmissions in English and Kiswahili which are not their vernacular languages. Despite rating the radio relatively high (26%) as the leading media for information compared to other media, several social and economic barriers including the lack of time to listen to radio programmes were mentioned. Alternative media resources such as rural extension workers and fellow women and friends were rated high. The poor transport and telecommunications infrastructure contributes enormously towards media inaccessibility. The study recommends that alternative media resources like women groups, folk media, religious gathering and exhibitions be promoted and extension services be improved. In addition, timely radio programmes should be broadcasted in vernacular, and women should be encouraged to participate in adult education programmes. Male spouses should be closely involved to support the initiatives and reduce cultural barriers. A model for solving some of the problems is provided. The study confirms previous similar studies and presents new dimensions that can be pursued. The data gathered can be used to determine the role libraries can play.

Mediacy: what it is? Where to go?

Abstract: The author re-examines the concepts in the light of “digital literacy” to determine the problems, tasks and fields of common interest He reviews the government actions in Japan in providing access to digital knowledge and in creating information literacy, such as schools, higher education, life-long education, etc He explores which findings in recent developments in Japan can be of common interest and shared with other advanced, as well as developing countries Finally, possibilities for future international co-operation are discussed

The Evolution of the Internet as a Global Information System

Abstract: The Internet began as a modest research experiment to link three early packet networks in an open-architecture framework In due course, many other networks were connected, thus spawning a revolution in networking that continues to this day The early technology considerations inevitably led to social, administrative and commercial issues, and ultimately to political and societal issues as it spread worldwide Today, the Internet is rapidly becoming a global information system in which all kinds of information can be accessed from virtually anywhere The long-term ramifications of this rapidly evolving phenomenon are as unpredictable as that of society itself

Mediacy: Knowledge and Skills to Navigate the Information Highway

Abstract: The abilities to explore information space, discover, learn, find, manage, organize, evaluate, create, use, and preserve information are complex and they vary depending upon the type of information and the format or medium in which it is presented. The knowledge and skills for print media are different from those for full motion video. The knowledge includes recognizing different needs for information; understanding and using different measures of value; and understanding ethical issues — all within multicultural and diverse environments, traditions, and contents. Skills include those related to retrieving, managing, organizing, using, preserving, and communicating information. This presentation explores these complex abilities, describing earlier work, and addresses pertinent issues.

Can We Trust Information

Abstract: Why do we demand more of the quality of food or a car than we demand of that other essential: information? Reliability and authenticity determine the credibility and the usefulness of information. These concepts, developed in different cultures and at different times, are essential for our information society in its dependence on trust in information. In the creation and distribution of digital information, conditions should be met to ensure the reliability and authenticity of the information.

Transition of Library and Information Science Education in China: Problems and Perspective

Abstract: Library and information science education in China is in a period of transition. The changes in the social, economic and technological environment have introduced new requirements for the professional personnel. The growth of the information industry and the expansion of the labor market have motivated schools of library and information science to adjust their objectives, curriculum and knowledge structure in order to meet social needs. This article discusses the changing social environment in the 1990s and the challenges to professional education, and responses from schools. Based on the curriculum of 17 schools of library and information science in China provided at the Second Joint Annual Meeting of Deans held in 1995, the author provides data on required courses, specialized elective courses and non-specialized courses according to the frequency of each course appearing in the curriculum. The objectives are to determine the state-of-the-art structure of the knowledge base and to identify any consensus among teaching institutions. The difficulties and problems in educational reform are discussed and some trends in professional education in China are predicted.

Building Trust in Cyberspace

Abstract: Michael Nelson spoke from a series of overhead transparencies. Unfortunately, we do not have available a full transcript of his speech. What follows is a copy of his overhead notes that serve to outline the content of his discussion. The Editor The author suggests the need for more effective mechanisms for validating the authenticity, accuracy, and integrity of digital information made available on the Internet. Traditionally, information specialists helped to separate fact from fiction. Now, the challenge is to promote the development of millions of “digital editors”.

The Impact of Rural Information on Community Development Programmes in the Imo State of Nigeria

Abstract: By the combination of a questionnaire and an oral interview schedule, the impact of grassroot information dissemination on community development programmes in Imo State was established. A total of 378 respondents were chosen from 63 autonomous communities drawn randomly from the 27 local government areas of the state. The results show that grassroot information has accelerated self-help development consciousness of the rural dwellers. Various social, economic, cultural and health projects have been accomplished as a result. A number of factors constraining grassroot information dissemination in Imo State were identified.

University Library Development in the Arab Gulf Region: A Survey and Analysis of Six State University Libraries

Abstract: This study examines the development of six state university libraries in the Arab Gulf countries of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates. Despite the relatively short history of higher education in these countries, these libraries have made some significant progress. It should be noted that in terms of library organization, size of collections, number of staff, service activities, and computer applications, these libraries are considered by default the main libraries in their respective countries. At present, only Saudi Arabia has a national library. This study employed a survey questionnaire which was sent to all Gulf university libraries to identify and gather pertinent and current information necessary to establish an accurate profile on each one of these libraries. The study provides basic information on library organization and analysis of collections, services, staffing, budgeting, expenditures, automation, and information technology. The study findings suggest that further research is needed to examine and evaluate collections, service activities and instructional programs, staff development and training, co-operation among Arab Gulf universities, and library education programs in the region.

Development of Library and Information Science Education in Africa

Abstract: This paper gives a comprehensive account of the development of library and information science education in Africa. Ghana was first to start any kind of library education in 1944 but the formal education started at Ibadan, Nigeria in 1959. By 1970 there were six library schools; four new schools started during 1970s and another six during 1980s. Two Regional Schools with Master's programme in Information Science started in 1990. Two new schools are likely to start soon. Nigeria alone has eight schools providing professional education at all levels including PhD (which is only available in Nigeria) and an exclusive programme of Master in Information Science at ARCIS, Ibadan. Several schools, realizing the importance of new developments in information science and technology, are planning to incorporate this component into their curriculae. The existing programmes need to be assessed in context of information needs of Africa.

"Disarticulations" in the Information Society: Barriers to the Universal Access to Information Highways in Developing Countries.

Abstract: The author supports the opinion that full benefit may be derived from the technological potential on condition that serious attention is given to the social, political and ethical aspects, which are often barriers to the free and multi-directional access to information, especially in developing countries. Causes of these barriers — “disarticulations” within a society — are listed and their importance in developing countries emphasized. Possible different communication structures in a society and their effects are examined. The author concludes that the traditional, principle of free flow of information is not sufficient in the advancing information society; there is a need for a, principle which deals more specifically with the “activation”, “mediation”, and “networking” of the needs and opinions at the different levels of society.

A Comparative Study of Major OPACs in Selected Academic Libraries for Developing Countries — User Study and Subjective User Evaluation

Abstract: The lack of an understanding of the characteristics, skills, and searching abilities of a specific user group in computer-based information systems hinders library and information science professionals in making the best decisions when designing, acquiring, and managing information systems. The objective of this study was to provide information on the characteristics of a specific group of international college students from a developing country, in order to assist system managers in the selection of OPACs. The major conclusions of this study are: (1) academic level of study and age of the students affect the preference for the type of OPAC system selected, but the academic major of the students does not affect the preference; (2) system designers should prepare more specific instructions regarding searching methods; (3) system designers should focus on the design of the system menu, since the most common method of learning about OPAC systems was the instructions in the menu; and (4) menu-driven systems should be the first selection of OPAC systems for Korean students. Recommendations are proposed when designing, adopting, or managing a new OPAC system. Topics for further studies on the characteristics of OPAC systems and their use are also suggested.

Regular ArticleMedia Accessibility and Utilization by Kenyan Rural Women

Abstract: This study aims to establish the level of media accessibility and use by the Kenyan rural women in the Kinangop area, with the assumption that media can play an important role for the improvement of their welfare. A survey, using the critical incidence method, was used to gather data by probing person-to-person through interviews and questionnaires. 104 women were sampled from 31 170 women using multistage sampling technique, and interviewed. Ten questionnaires were distributed to key informants who hold leading positions for the improvement of social welfare in the area. The data was analysed by use of descriptive statistics. The study revealed that women require mainly health and agricultural information. Because of low literacy, the majority of the women cannot comprehend radio transmissions in English and Kiswahili which are not their vernacular languages. Despite rating the radio relatively high (26%) as the leading media for information compared to other media, several social and economic barriers including the lack of time to listen to radio programmes were mentioned. Alternative media resources such as rural extension workers and fellow women and friends were rated high. The poor transport and telecommunications infrastructure contributes enormously towards media inaccessibility. The study recommends that alternative media resources like women groups, folk media, religious gathering and exhibitions be promoted and extension services be improved. In addition, timely radio programmes should be broadcasted in vernacular, and women should be encouraged to participate in adult education programmes. Male spouses should be closely involved to support the initiatives and reduce cultural barriers. A model for solving some of the problems is provided. The study confirms previous similar studies and presents new dimensions that can be pursued. The data gathered can be used to determine the role libraries can play.

Challenges of an Interactive Environment in the Context of Developing Countries in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract: The paper discusses the state of the interactive environment in the context of developing countries and relates this to the library and information service (LIS) professionals' ethos on freedom of information. It highlights the role of LIS professionals in adaptive integration of the concept of “leap-frogging,” in support of the struggle for equal access to information for citizens. Drawing from the literature of developed countries, the paper then focuses on ethical issues to which LIS professionals in developing countries need to be sensitized. It encompasses freedom of information, copyright and privacy of information. It concludes by recognizing the need for the reinforcement of education on ethical issues for LIS professionals in developing countries and the role of library associations in sensitization efforts.

Implementing Lifelong Learning in Partnership with the Educational Sector and the Work Place.

Abstract: The author examines why the changes in today's working conditions require lifelong learning. She maintains that combining resources of the educational sector, the working environment and the media is needed for the implementation of lifelong learning. However, cultural and ethical barriers to lifelong learning create a real challenge for educational institutions. One can ask, therefore, whether there is competition or partnership today between educational institutions and media.

Copyright in the Digital Environment

Abstract: Copyright, a legal discipline concerned with the protection of the moral and economic rights of the creators of literary, scientific and artistic works, is recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 27.2), as are the rights to information and culture. This intellectual right amounts to a monopoly on exploitation for authors, which is the subject of national legislation and international conventions designed to ensure its worldwide harmonization. Since the invention of printing, which brought it into being, copyright has been adapted to the various technologies for disseminating and communicating works of the mind that have subsequently developed. Because respect for copyright is a fundamental requirement for the full development of the creative work for which it provides remuneration, copyright today is faced with the difficulty of maintaining the delicate balance among the legitimate interests of authors, successors-in-title and the general public in the digital environment. This paper illustrates a highly topical international debate, analyses international agreements adopted under the aegis of WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) last December and describes UNESCO's doctrine on the subject.

A moral and legal obligation : Preservation in the digital age

Abstract: The Commission on Preservation and Access and the Research Libraries Group (both US organizations) created a task force to study the requirements for preserving digital information. The report, published in May 1996, recommends a certification process for digital archives and calls for a legal authority to rescue digital files in danger of being lost. The paper reviews the reactions of the library, archival, and educational communities and describes the current actions being taken.

The ethno-cultural, linguistic and ethical problems of the infosphere

Abstract: If we wish to extend co-operation among the different peoples of the world on the basis of information exchanges, we must do more than create the global information infrastructure and highway which form the technological basis for the information society of the 21st century An effort must also be made to resolve sensitive issues involved in mutual understanding between peoples belonging to different cultures and speaking different languages. This will not come about if the tendency for some languages and cultures to dominate others is allowed to persist. A long-term international programme of action is needed to preserve cultural diversity and multilingualism in the infosphere. The basic forms of such action could include: preservation — by means of the appropriate media — of the cultural heritage of peoples with no written language; the development of computer translation systems; extension of the study of the most widely spoken languages (in terms of the number of speakers) in secondary and higher education; the elaboration and adoption of general ethical standards for the writing, reviewing and citing of scientific publications, particularly articles in periodicals; the elaboration of agreed scientific terminology in different languages; the development of co-operation on the inclusion of national literature in international databases; the devising of ways and means of protecting the infosphere from pollution. Given the world-wide importance of such action, it would be appropriate to conduct it under the auspices of UNESCO and of the International Council of Scientific Unions, as was done in the late 1960s and early 1970s for the UNISIST programme.

The Information Society in the 21st Century: Converting from Analogue to Digital

Abstract: Digital information and the proliferation of networks for its delivery are accelerating the emergence of the “Information Society”. Its technical development and widespread use have, however, outpaced consideration for security, privacy, and the ethics of the production and the dissemination of content. The prospects offered today by both the multimedia traffic and the millions of users accessing and transmitting digital information have also prompted the creation of large multinational conglomerates and agreements to exploit the resulting market potential. All of the above aspects need now to be addressed in order to make appropriate recommendations for their handling.

Dealing with Diversity and Digital Culture

Abstract: Cultural diversity is broader than ethnic and language considerations alone. It includes gender, age, economic or social conditions, education, technological infrastructure and computer and information literacy All of these have to be taken into account when digital information is received or provided. Understanding and respecting diversity in each country is a major issue for the country itself, as well as for the information providers from abroad. The main barriers for participating in the digital culture for Latin America are the differences of each of the countries: the few people that have access; the technological infrastructure; the lack of relevant contents in the primary languages; and the fact that English is the pre-dominant language of the Global Information Infrastructure. Nations should focus on three main areas: technological infrastructure, contents and access. Projects should be prepared so as to strengthen the Latin American identity.

Access to the Information Highway: Principles and Issues from the Perspective of the National Library of Canada

Abstract: En adaptant ses programmes et ses services au nouvel environnement numerique, la bibliotheque nationale du Canada a tenu compte de plusieurs points : l'acces equitable a l'information, un acces effectif, le droit de copie, la conservation, les normes, la censure et la liberte intellectuelle, la vie privee et la securite de l'information

The Challenges of Archiving Digital Information

Abstract: This paper examines the need for re-evaluating archival principles and practices. Opportunities created to enhance and enrich archival work and difficulties of archiving digital information, because of its nature, are reviewed. “Records series” are used to illustrate the consequences in terms of selection and appraisal of records. The preservation of digital information also raises new challenges. The impact of digital information on the ethical, legal and societal issues (protection, confidentiality, privacy, etc.) is emphasized.

Policy and Partnerships for the Development of the Infoculture — Information at the Centre of a New Form of Solidarity

Abstract: The development of digital technologies for the production, processing, dissemination and use of information is leading to the emergence of a new society based on a far reaching transformation in the relationship between people and institutions and on a radical change in many professional, economic, educational or cultural practices. The crucial question facing us today is whether our traditional societies are ready for such a shift in ways of thinking, communicating and acting. Are people sufficiently aware and adequately equipped to become citizens of this new information society? Are they prepared to be active, efficient and responsible participants in the new communities living on information exchange? Are we really ready to be part of a new culture based on a swifter and broader flow of information, ideas and knowledge? The development of that special culture, or infoculture, depends first and foremost on education, both general and vocational, and on initial and continuing training as well as on raising awareness among the public at large. Achieving a real infoculture calls for full-scale mobilization of all those who in their various ways are involved in the information society. Partnerships must be encouraged; national, regional or world projects must be given support; there is more than ever a need for a new form of solidarity to develop the infoculture.

Existing and Evolving Technologies for Long-Term Information Preservation and the Supporting Legal Requirements

Abstract: This paper considers information preservation from two main perspectives. The first one is technological and the other is legal. From the technological side, advances in computer and information technology helped to increase the volume of information tremendously, and the means of dissemination through networking is also becoming widespread. Multimedia information is also creating a storage environment in which the software needed for viewing and browsing is becoming an integral part of the stored information. Advances in optical storage are reviewed in this paper with emphasis on their archival lifetime. Legal aspects were also considered, starting with the production and transcription phases. In this phase, appropriate attention should be given to the credibility of information. Some form of notarization may be used at both the national and international levels. With respect to the dissemination and usage phase, issues regarding the intellectual copyright issues are considered, particularly for multimedia information.

Convergence of Visions: a Condition for Effective Partnership in a Multilateral and Multilingual Environment

Abstract: The right for everyone to access “the promised land” of the InfoSociety is widely recognized. The “wiring of the universe” is now technically and financially possible. One should do it quickly in the respect of human values and rights, freedom of opinion, transparency and cultural diversity. However, in the context of communication developments in 1997, it is a multifacet issue of concern to all the countries. The cyberspace era brings many new challenges to the communications' academic curricula, professional practices, media owners and the research and development (R&D) of industries across the world. The emerging virtual communities change social and political relationships, as well as the job market well beyond national and linguistic boundaries. The paper examines the minimal conditions needed for this open process to take place with the participation of all players and the possible role of ORBICOM, the network of UNESCO Chairs in Communication.

Opening Address: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

Abstract: (1997) Opening Address International Information & Library Review: Vol 29, No 2, pp 115-120

Globalization, National Cultures and Ethics

Abstract: Avec la globalisation de l'economie, un nouvel âge de l'alienation est ne dans lequel les technologies de la communication jouent un role central. Une colonisation culturelle s'est installee. La liberte d'expression est en concurrence directe avec la liberte d'expression commerciale

Preparing Society for the Information Age: a National “Forum Info 2000”

Abstract: The Federal Government of Germany has initiated a nationwide discussion on the forthcoming “Information Society.” The purpose is to broaden awareness of the opportunities, challenges and risks of future telematics applications on all aspects of life and to prepare the citizens for these changes, including labour market and media literacy, sustainable development and cities, etc. More than 150 societal groups, associations, and organizations are participating (trade unions, citizens' groups, industry associations, large corporations, representatives of churches, youth, women, handicapped people, elderly citizens, etc.). All serve as multipliers to spread awareness into all the facets of the society. The paper reviews the conceptual approach, the organizational infrastructure, the topics, the implementation of the dialogue process and the first experiences. It also identifies implications for similar initiatives in other countries. 7

Responsibilities in the Context of the Global Information Infrastructure

Abstract: Le cyberespace ne tenant plus compte des frontieres traditionnelles, aucune autorite ne revendiquant l'exercice d'un monopole de l'application des regles, se pose le probleme de la responsabilite dans le cadre de la communication electronique

What type of Internet development programme in Cameroon

Abstract: Everyone is trying to reap the extraordinary benefits of international networks, but without bothering to find out whether it is safe to do so. This paper echoes some questions being raised by the Cameroonian, and indeed the African, community. What will become of countries or social groups which do not get on to the Internet in time? Would the majority of the world population thus be cut off from a small group? What is the position regarding equality of conditions of access, freedom to communicate and interactivity facilities, understood as a network of exchanges? The programme for the development of the Internet in Cameroon is intended as a pilot experiment in a developing country, that could be taken up in other countries of the region.