WHAT WE CAN MAKE OUT OF ICT IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE COURSES.
WRIITEN BY; UDEM OBIORA KINGSLEY
REG. NO; 2009636005P
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY(ICT)
According to Ania (2004), information technology (IT) is an omnibus term that combines computer and telecommunication technology; hence it is sometimes called information and communication technology (ICT). Information and communication technology is concerned with the technology used in handling, acquiring, processing, storing and disseminating information.
Asnafi (2005) defined ICT as the technologies that help us record, stored, process, retrieve, transfer and receive information. Information technology (IT) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) are dependent on each other, IT may refer to the machine and ICT to its product.
LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
Ikegbune (1997) noted that a Library which is gotten from Latin word “liber”(book) may be defined as a collection of written, printed or other graphic materials (including films, slides, phonograph records and tapes), housed, organized and interpreted to meet broad and varying needs of people for information, knowledge, recreation and aesthetics.
Library and Information Science is concerned with collection, processing, storage and dissemination of recorded information for the purpose of reading, study and consultation.
According to Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Online, Library and Information Science may be defined as an interdisciplinary field that applies the practices, perspectives and tools of management, information technology, education, and other areas to libraries, the collection, organization, preservation, and dissemination of information resources; and political economy of information.
WHAT WE CAN MAKE OUT OF ICT IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE COURSES/BENEFIT OF ICT TO LIBRARY AND INFORMATION COURSES.
The use of computers and communications technologies in information handling and processing has arisen because of increased workload involved in coping with information explosion. In order to keep pace with handling the increasing number of information carries, computers are utilized to handle information processing with greater speed and accuracy than manual processing. Access to information processed by computer is instant; it can also be accessible over long distance regardless of where the information is processed. This is possible through telecommunication technology (Aina, 2004)
Librarians need special knowledge and skills including techniques of using software and hardware, selection and assessment of resources, use of information systems, ability to search networks and database, as well as problem solving and research skills and ability to teach users. Librarians should acquire these skills before entering the job market and it can only be achieved through the study of ICT as a Library and Information Science course.
New technology should make Librarians network specialists, information mediators and system designers and it can only be achieved through study of ICT as Library and Information Science course.
One of the major applications activities such as circulation, acquisition, serial control, cataloguing and classification. Most of the specific tasks in these activities are routine and repetitive; hence they are readily amendable to Automation. All these can easily be actualized with study of ICT as library and information Science course.
In conclusion, Information and communications technology (ICT) has become an important field for all information professionals especially the Librarians. This is as a result of its relevance and applications tasks in libraries and information centre. The importance of ICT in libraries can only be actualized through the study of ICT as a library and information science course.
Always tell me what you think you can or have made out of this course . Dr Chinwe
Reference
Ania, L.O. (2004). Library and Information Science text for Africa
Asnafi, A.R. (2005). What is e- learning and where is the place of virtual libraries in this
Process. Faslname-ye ketabb 16(3); 133-148
Ikegbune, E. (1997). The use of the Library for College and University students. Nsukka :
FIJAC Academic press.
Library Science (2009). In wikipedia, the free Encyclopedia online.
http://en.m.wikipdia.org/wiki/library_science?
Monday, May 31, 2010
WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
{IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE COURSE INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY, LIS 611}
BY
ADUBA DORIS EMETAROM
2009636003P
DR. ANUNOBI
MAY, 2010
PREAMBLE
Information is defined simply as a set of data recorded in a methodical manner, which includes
a. Any item of knowledge capable of facilitating the operation of a system and
b. Any numerical or alpha-numerical quantity processed by the machine. The aggregate of information constitution the data and results of a problem.
Information is a processed data which major aim is to convey meaningful message or interrelated or structured data.
Okunna (1994) explains that to communicate basically means to share ideas, information, feelings, or experiences between people. The basis of sharing or exchange between people, is the ability to establish a common ground with another person or group of persons. Communication is purposeful.
Oxford advanced Learner’s Dictionary defines Technology as the scientific study and use of applied sciences, e.g. engineering, the application of this to practical tasks in industry.
ICT is thus a necessary consideration for managers in all organizations because of this pervasive impact on external environments (social, educational, economic etc.) and also because of the potential impact of ICT on internal organizational structure and processes.
For libraries, information communication technology is crucial consideration. Not only does it pervade the external environments which condition staff and customer expectations. Not only does it have important implications for operational and management processes. Its central concern information or knowledge is the raw material of library work.
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
Okoye (2007), the most remarkable change in developing countries apart from the industrial revolution is the information revolution especially that based on computers including their software, accessories and the internet. Internet and communication technologies have not only reduced the world to a global village by their dynamic and pervasive influence but also have turn around academic life in University campuses in Nigeria.
Anaeme (2004), the computer is an electronic device stands out the most basic element in information and communication technology as most other technologies output through it.
Internet: The internet is a vast network of computers that provide information superhighway that enable individuals, organization, corporations, academic institutions and libraries worldwide to exchange and communicate information.
Information Technology is defined as the acquisition, processing, storage and dissemination of vocal, pictorial, textual and numerical information by a micro-electronic-based combination of computing, telecommunications and video.
Drew and foster (1994), defined ICT as a group of technologies that is revolutionizing the handling of information and embody a convergence of interest between electronics, computing and communication.
Duncombe and Hecks (1999), defined ICT as the electronic means of capturing, processing, storing and disseminating information.
Edoka (2000), since the 1960’s there has been steady increase in the awareness that computers can be used to enhance the overall effectiveness. This trend was largely due to widespread availability of computers and production of conveniently cheap models. At the same time Librarians have realized the advantages of using computers in libraries
BENEFITS OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN LIBRARIES AND TO LIBRARIAN
1. SPEED: Computers help to process information very fast. The speed with which computers perform their work approximates the speed of light. In libraries, such routine duties as circulation control, listing of serial holdings, acquisitions and cataloguing are performed faster than by the traditional manual methods. Importantly, if the processing rules are standardized, computerization increases accuracy and detects error in the stored information. The library user benefits by getting what he wants to read without having to wait too long.
2. CULTURAL PRESERVATION: The application of modern technology to the preservation of library materials is very important issue. The challenges of preserving library materials in the future cannot be met by skilled hands alone. Science and technology are needed as well if we are to save the cultural heritage of our civilization from premature decay and eventual loss. We must either develop new technologies or grasp the opportunities of existing technologies and apply them to the solution of special problems.
3. MANAGEMENT AND ACCESS: Digital technologies facilitate access to information collections. This is done by transporting the contents of information sourced from where they are held to where they are needed. The same technologies could be used to transport the essence of materials across time and thus contribute to their management and preservation. Management and preservation is a high priority concern of all libraries be it academic or public libraries. The development of digital preservation in the developed world is a testimony to the high value placed on availability of information. It is also as a result of collaboration between the scientific community, governments, and the developed world that has minimized deterioration of library materials.
4. Traditionally, the raw material of Library service is the library’s stock- a collection of physical artefacts, usually in the form of print-on-paper 9books, journals, other documents) but also including other media (sound recordings, photographs, videos etc.). Traditional library systems are geared to the identification and retrieval of these artefacts – a particular book title, journal issue, video recording etc. But an IT can convert all these types of information- carrying artefacts into digital data for the purposes of storage (e.g. optical disc), processing (e.g. computing) and transmission (e.g. data communication networks).
5. THE OPERATIONAL PROCESSES OF LIBRARIES: It involves a vast number of routine transactions (e.g. as books are issued, returned, reserved, become overdue, etc.) ideally suited to automation. Circulation control systems, cataloguing processes, systems for the ordering and acquisition of stock and for serials control can all be automated. Increasingly through one integrated computer system- in order to improve efficiency and productivity. Records are no longer duplicated and staff are saved much of the clerical drudgery needed to maintain manual paper-based library systems.
6. RETROSPECTIVE CONVERSION: Sometimes there is need for libraries to change from one record to another, for instance, changing from card catalogue to book catalogue. The change can easily and speedily be completed if the master files of the library data are machine-readable.
7. EFFECT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TO INFORMATION DELIVERY: The effect of automation cannot be over emphasized in advancing information delivery. Information technology through automation library services has changed the world of services delivery. Fjailbrant (1990) started that the new innovation and method has brought a great change to service delivery. He itemized six features as follows. Digitalization of information – text graphics, photographs speed, sound video etc.
Cheaper data storage – optical storage media (OSM)
In creased computer power leading to speedier and cheaper computer processing.
Improved telecommunication reduces ISDN with general increased capacity for data transmission
Increase viability of hardware and software and
Decreased size of equipment.
Omekwu (2003) in conformity with Fjailbrant opinion states that, new information environment provides library of all types and archives institutions with limitless access to global information at the pressing of the keyboard to include the following merits;
Incredible platforms (e.g. CD-ROM) for storage of large data
Easy integration of various activities
Increased Efficiency
Means of income generation
Strategic connection of local network to global network thus making the world a global village
Contact, cooperation and communication as the hallmark of professionalism etc.
8. The management processes of planning and control can be considerably enhanced by IT. An integrated system can provide important stock management information. A distributed network of terminals (e.g. for the circulation system or library catalogue) can provide an opportunity for communication by software packages (word processing, spreadsheets, etc.) can be used in the library office, as in any other type of organization.
9. Information Technology can change the nature of customer interaction in three ways;
By speeding up routine processes at the library counter
By widening the choice of available information sources and services
By making library service more accessible
Rather than the old card catalogue or card index of local information, the customer can use an OPAC (online public access catalogue) or PET (public enquiry terminal) with swifter and more sophisticated searching of the information database.
10. In addition to this enhanced ranged of information sources and services, IT can also widen the customer’s choice in terms of points and methods of access to the library. Indeed for some disabled people, technology gives them the opportunity to use a service which would otherwise be inaccessible – it means the difference between exclusion and participation, limited and full functioning, failure and success. Instead of having to physically visit the building or room, the customer using electronic networking can have the option of ‘dial-up’ access to the library, 24hours a day, from home or workplace.
11. The initial stimulus to ITs applications in large libraries is the productivity gain that comes from automating transactional routines and cooperating with other libraries through a third-party organization like OCLC in the production of catalogue records.
12. CREATION OF NEW SRVICES: With computers, libraries can offer a series of new service can include recent accession lists, listing of the library holdings in a special way, current awareness services (e.g. selective Dissemination of information, current contents). Also this may include interpreting books borrowed by subject, clientele and form of material.
Let me know what it can or has offered you. Dr Chinwe
CONCLUSION
For libraries, information technology is a crucial consideration. Not only does it pervade the external environments which condition staff and customer expectations. Not only can it change the nature of staff activity and customer behavior. Not only does it have important implications for operational and management processes. Its central concern information or knowledge is the raw material of library work. Definitions of IT tend to apply microelectronics-based technologies to the activities – acquisition, processing, storage and dissemination of information – which form the essence of library service.
REFERENCES
ANAEME, F. O. (2007). Law Libraries, Information Communication Technology
(ICT), legal Education and research. Coal city libraries vol. 5 & 6, pp. 42-51.
DREW, E. and FOSTER, F, (eds.) (1994). Information Technology in selected
countries. Tokyo: United Nations press.
DUCOMBE, R. and HECK, R. (1999). Information, ICT and small enterprises: Finding
from Botswana, Manchester: University of Manchester, Institute of for
Development, policy and management working paper7.
EDOKA, B. E. (2000). Introduction to Library Science. Onitsha: Palma publishing
and Links. Pp. 157-168.
EZEH, R. U. (2007). Management of disaster through information Technology
support: Challenges for information managers. Coal city libraries vol. 5 & 6,
pp. 102-112.
FJAILBRANT, N. (1990), Why user education and how can information technology
help? IFLA journal, vol. 16 no 4, pp. 405-413.
OKEKE, M. O. (2007). Assessment of the use of information and communication
technology in Nigerian university libraries. Coal city libraries vol. 5 & 6, pp.
21-33.
OKUNNA, S. C. (1994), Introduction to Mass communication.
Enugu: ABIC. Pp. 19.
OMEKWU, C. O. (2003). Conventional Approaches in accessing legal information.
3rd ed. Nigeria libraries, 37 pp. 46-58.
Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary (2001). 6th ed.
Oxford: Oxford University press.
{IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE COURSE INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY, LIS 611}
BY
ADUBA DORIS EMETAROM
2009636003P
DR. ANUNOBI
MAY, 2010
PREAMBLE
Information is defined simply as a set of data recorded in a methodical manner, which includes
a. Any item of knowledge capable of facilitating the operation of a system and
b. Any numerical or alpha-numerical quantity processed by the machine. The aggregate of information constitution the data and results of a problem.
Information is a processed data which major aim is to convey meaningful message or interrelated or structured data.
Okunna (1994) explains that to communicate basically means to share ideas, information, feelings, or experiences between people. The basis of sharing or exchange between people, is the ability to establish a common ground with another person or group of persons. Communication is purposeful.
Oxford advanced Learner’s Dictionary defines Technology as the scientific study and use of applied sciences, e.g. engineering, the application of this to practical tasks in industry.
ICT is thus a necessary consideration for managers in all organizations because of this pervasive impact on external environments (social, educational, economic etc.) and also because of the potential impact of ICT on internal organizational structure and processes.
For libraries, information communication technology is crucial consideration. Not only does it pervade the external environments which condition staff and customer expectations. Not only does it have important implications for operational and management processes. Its central concern information or knowledge is the raw material of library work.
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
Okoye (2007), the most remarkable change in developing countries apart from the industrial revolution is the information revolution especially that based on computers including their software, accessories and the internet. Internet and communication technologies have not only reduced the world to a global village by their dynamic and pervasive influence but also have turn around academic life in University campuses in Nigeria.
Anaeme (2004), the computer is an electronic device stands out the most basic element in information and communication technology as most other technologies output through it.
Internet: The internet is a vast network of computers that provide information superhighway that enable individuals, organization, corporations, academic institutions and libraries worldwide to exchange and communicate information.
Information Technology is defined as the acquisition, processing, storage and dissemination of vocal, pictorial, textual and numerical information by a micro-electronic-based combination of computing, telecommunications and video.
Drew and foster (1994), defined ICT as a group of technologies that is revolutionizing the handling of information and embody a convergence of interest between electronics, computing and communication.
Duncombe and Hecks (1999), defined ICT as the electronic means of capturing, processing, storing and disseminating information.
Edoka (2000), since the 1960’s there has been steady increase in the awareness that computers can be used to enhance the overall effectiveness. This trend was largely due to widespread availability of computers and production of conveniently cheap models. At the same time Librarians have realized the advantages of using computers in libraries
BENEFITS OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN LIBRARIES AND TO LIBRARIAN
1. SPEED: Computers help to process information very fast. The speed with which computers perform their work approximates the speed of light. In libraries, such routine duties as circulation control, listing of serial holdings, acquisitions and cataloguing are performed faster than by the traditional manual methods. Importantly, if the processing rules are standardized, computerization increases accuracy and detects error in the stored information. The library user benefits by getting what he wants to read without having to wait too long.
2. CULTURAL PRESERVATION: The application of modern technology to the preservation of library materials is very important issue. The challenges of preserving library materials in the future cannot be met by skilled hands alone. Science and technology are needed as well if we are to save the cultural heritage of our civilization from premature decay and eventual loss. We must either develop new technologies or grasp the opportunities of existing technologies and apply them to the solution of special problems.
3. MANAGEMENT AND ACCESS: Digital technologies facilitate access to information collections. This is done by transporting the contents of information sourced from where they are held to where they are needed. The same technologies could be used to transport the essence of materials across time and thus contribute to their management and preservation. Management and preservation is a high priority concern of all libraries be it academic or public libraries. The development of digital preservation in the developed world is a testimony to the high value placed on availability of information. It is also as a result of collaboration between the scientific community, governments, and the developed world that has minimized deterioration of library materials.
4. Traditionally, the raw material of Library service is the library’s stock- a collection of physical artefacts, usually in the form of print-on-paper 9books, journals, other documents) but also including other media (sound recordings, photographs, videos etc.). Traditional library systems are geared to the identification and retrieval of these artefacts – a particular book title, journal issue, video recording etc. But an IT can convert all these types of information- carrying artefacts into digital data for the purposes of storage (e.g. optical disc), processing (e.g. computing) and transmission (e.g. data communication networks).
5. THE OPERATIONAL PROCESSES OF LIBRARIES: It involves a vast number of routine transactions (e.g. as books are issued, returned, reserved, become overdue, etc.) ideally suited to automation. Circulation control systems, cataloguing processes, systems for the ordering and acquisition of stock and for serials control can all be automated. Increasingly through one integrated computer system- in order to improve efficiency and productivity. Records are no longer duplicated and staff are saved much of the clerical drudgery needed to maintain manual paper-based library systems.
6. RETROSPECTIVE CONVERSION: Sometimes there is need for libraries to change from one record to another, for instance, changing from card catalogue to book catalogue. The change can easily and speedily be completed if the master files of the library data are machine-readable.
7. EFFECT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TO INFORMATION DELIVERY: The effect of automation cannot be over emphasized in advancing information delivery. Information technology through automation library services has changed the world of services delivery. Fjailbrant (1990) started that the new innovation and method has brought a great change to service delivery. He itemized six features as follows. Digitalization of information – text graphics, photographs speed, sound video etc.
Cheaper data storage – optical storage media (OSM)
In creased computer power leading to speedier and cheaper computer processing.
Improved telecommunication reduces ISDN with general increased capacity for data transmission
Increase viability of hardware and software and
Decreased size of equipment.
Omekwu (2003) in conformity with Fjailbrant opinion states that, new information environment provides library of all types and archives institutions with limitless access to global information at the pressing of the keyboard to include the following merits;
Incredible platforms (e.g. CD-ROM) for storage of large data
Easy integration of various activities
Increased Efficiency
Means of income generation
Strategic connection of local network to global network thus making the world a global village
Contact, cooperation and communication as the hallmark of professionalism etc.
8. The management processes of planning and control can be considerably enhanced by IT. An integrated system can provide important stock management information. A distributed network of terminals (e.g. for the circulation system or library catalogue) can provide an opportunity for communication by software packages (word processing, spreadsheets, etc.) can be used in the library office, as in any other type of organization.
9. Information Technology can change the nature of customer interaction in three ways;
By speeding up routine processes at the library counter
By widening the choice of available information sources and services
By making library service more accessible
Rather than the old card catalogue or card index of local information, the customer can use an OPAC (online public access catalogue) or PET (public enquiry terminal) with swifter and more sophisticated searching of the information database.
10. In addition to this enhanced ranged of information sources and services, IT can also widen the customer’s choice in terms of points and methods of access to the library. Indeed for some disabled people, technology gives them the opportunity to use a service which would otherwise be inaccessible – it means the difference between exclusion and participation, limited and full functioning, failure and success. Instead of having to physically visit the building or room, the customer using electronic networking can have the option of ‘dial-up’ access to the library, 24hours a day, from home or workplace.
11. The initial stimulus to ITs applications in large libraries is the productivity gain that comes from automating transactional routines and cooperating with other libraries through a third-party organization like OCLC in the production of catalogue records.
12. CREATION OF NEW SRVICES: With computers, libraries can offer a series of new service can include recent accession lists, listing of the library holdings in a special way, current awareness services (e.g. selective Dissemination of information, current contents). Also this may include interpreting books borrowed by subject, clientele and form of material.
Let me know what it can or has offered you. Dr Chinwe
CONCLUSION
For libraries, information technology is a crucial consideration. Not only does it pervade the external environments which condition staff and customer expectations. Not only can it change the nature of staff activity and customer behavior. Not only does it have important implications for operational and management processes. Its central concern information or knowledge is the raw material of library work. Definitions of IT tend to apply microelectronics-based technologies to the activities – acquisition, processing, storage and dissemination of information – which form the essence of library service.
REFERENCES
ANAEME, F. O. (2007). Law Libraries, Information Communication Technology
(ICT), legal Education and research. Coal city libraries vol. 5 & 6, pp. 42-51.
DREW, E. and FOSTER, F, (eds.) (1994). Information Technology in selected
countries. Tokyo: United Nations press.
DUCOMBE, R. and HECK, R. (1999). Information, ICT and small enterprises: Finding
from Botswana, Manchester: University of Manchester, Institute of for
Development, policy and management working paper7.
EDOKA, B. E. (2000). Introduction to Library Science. Onitsha: Palma publishing
and Links. Pp. 157-168.
EZEH, R. U. (2007). Management of disaster through information Technology
support: Challenges for information managers. Coal city libraries vol. 5 & 6,
pp. 102-112.
FJAILBRANT, N. (1990), Why user education and how can information technology
help? IFLA journal, vol. 16 no 4, pp. 405-413.
OKEKE, M. O. (2007). Assessment of the use of information and communication
technology in Nigerian university libraries. Coal city libraries vol. 5 & 6, pp.
21-33.
OKUNNA, S. C. (1994), Introduction to Mass communication.
Enugu: ABIC. Pp. 19.
OMEKWU, C. O. (2003). Conventional Approaches in accessing legal information.
3rd ed. Nigeria libraries, 37 pp. 46-58.
Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary (2001). 6th ed.
Oxford: Oxford University press.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)