Abstract:
A study was undertaken in four Tanzanian universities to investigate the status
and practice of information literacy (IL)so as to determine the best ways
of introducing or improving IL programmes. This article reports on the findings
related to challenges and opportunities that could influence the effective
implementation and introduction of IL programmes in Tanzanian
universities. Data for the study was collected using a questionnaire-based
survey administered to teaching staff, librarians and undergraduate students.
Semi-structured interviews collected data from Deputy Vice
Chancellors (DVCs) for academic affairs, Faculty Deans, Library Directors
and a Library Head. The findings of the study showed that IL was new in the
university curricula although some IL rubrics were being practised. Lack of
adequate resources, lack of an IL policy, lack of proactive solutions among
librarians coupled with the need for adequate library staffing and training,
and collaboration between librarians and teaching staff in IL activities were
all identified as challenges facing IL effectiveness. Also identified were
potential opportunities such as the support by the majority of university
stakeholders to mainstream IL and make it a compulsory course. These
opportunities would allow the introduction of effective and sustainable IL
programmes. The article concludes that librarians should seize the opportunities
that are available to spearhead IL while at the same time making sure
they tackle the identified challenges.
