Information science education between ‘documentalization’ and ‘informatization’

Abstract

Information work is considered from the point of view of knowledge production, knowledge needs and the communication media. Developments in the diffusion and transmission of knowledge are briefly discussed, followed by a consideration of time-independent transmission media for general use. Information work is in a transitional stage between ‘documentalization’ (within an institutional organization) and ‘informatization’ (within a de-institutionalized organizational framework) as a result of the impact of the evolving telecommunication technologies and their possible (and to some extent already practised) application in the information field. The information profession in terms of its self-understanding values and internal structure will be severely affected by these changes. The need for new and broader approaches to education for information work is discussed, some new professional values are introduced and principles for curriculum design in information science education are derived. Topics which should either be added to existing subjects or should replace them are discussed.