Need for Content Reengineering of the Medical Library and Information Science Curriculum in Iran

Abstract

New approaches in medical education and practice such as Evidence-Based Medicine, Information Therapy, and Patient-Centered Healthcare require more reliable, timely and specialized information services. At the same time, the provision of information services in the environment of Web 2.0, medicine 2.0, library 2.0, and mobile computer technology require new skills on the part of librarians. Library and Information Science (LIS) education curricula have to be changed to meet the professional needs and skills required for librarians. The aim of this study is to find out whether the content of LIS academic courses offered by Iranian Medical LIS schools meet the clinical/medical librarians' professional needs. It focuses on the areas of evidence-based approach, patient-centered healthcare, information therapy services, and Web2.0 applications. Methodology: This is an exploratory study involving a content analysis of the curricula and course descriptions of all schools/departments of medical library and information science in Iran. The medical library science education curricula in Iran address neither the trends in LIS education and services, nor the emerging technologies in information and communication. Specifically, professional skill requirements such as critical appraisal, rigorous research methods used in health science literature, evidence-based medicine, e-health, evidence-based library and information practice, Web 2.0, applications of Information Communication Technology and mobile technology are not included in LIS education to meet the needs of community and improve healthcare outcomes.

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