A CLARION CALL FOR THE INCLUSION OF NEW MEDIA STUDIES IN LIBRARY SCHOOLS’ CURRICULUM IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The speedy advancement of Information and Communication Technology has transformed the way information is accessed, shared, and disseminated in a contemporary society that is knowledge-driven. New media which is made up of digital platforms, social media, and online communication channels has emerged as a powerful force shaping the information age. As technology continues to progress, libraries and information professionals face new challenges and opportunities in meeting the information needs of their users. The inclusion of new media studies in library school curricula in Nigeria has become necessary because of the transformative impact of digital technologies on the field of library and information science. Thus, the study examined the call for incorporating new media studies into library schools’ curricula. The case study research design was used for the study. The population of the study was 19 library and information science educators in the Department of Library and Information Science Federal University of Technology Minna. A questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was analysed using frequencies, and percentages. The study found that the majority of the respondents strongly agreed that with the inclusion of new media studies in LIS curricula LIS students will be equipped with the ability to harness new technologies to provide access to a wider variety of resources. The study recommended that FUT Minna Library School must ensure it has adequate ICT facilities to facilitate the inclusion of new media studies in its curriculum.