Library and information education in Algeria: a framework for curriculum development

We live in an era characterised by the explosion of information. As societies are becaning more and more dependent on information, not only for the generation of knowledge but also for the generation of revenues, it is imperative that each society develops its own information infrastructure. Such development depends to a great extent on the availability of qualified library and information staff. These should be well trained and equipped with the proper knowledge, skills and attitudes to engage in library and information development programmes. Good training requires, among other facilities, an efficient library education system and a relevant curriculum. The intention of this study is to provide a framework for approaching curriculum development in Algerian library schools. Included is an overview of the process of curriculum development as seen through a review of the literature, and a look at different approaches to curriculum development and how curriculum design and planning has changed over the years. In surveying library education programmes in Algeria it was found that arrong other findings there is strong evidence of the lack of qualified teachers and poor teaching/learning facilities to attempt innovations in the curriculum. These issues are examined in the light of accepted standards in order to establish contrasting features, and measure the adequacy of library education in Algeria. The study reviews curriculum developnent activity in the Algerian general education system with emphasis on library education. It brings to attention the essential facts necessary for understanding the environmental factors which led to the current problems and tensions in the Algerian library and information scene. [... continued].