Master of Arts in Library and Information Science

Introduction  

The Department of Library and Information Science in the University of Kelaniya was established in 1973 in response to Government policy of the period to introduce job-oriented professional study programmes in universities, with the aim of combating the ever-rising unemployment problem of the graduates in the country.  It was also envisaged to conduct Postgraduate courses for the Librarians, Information Scientists, Information Officers, Documentation Scientists and allied grades for offering further education, training with a view to provide and to inculcate advanced knowledge, skills, behavioural, attitudinal traits and to structure mind-sets for enabling them to serve any work environment.  The principal role of this department is to supply human resources to those libraries and information centres and allied sectors attached to government and non – government organizations in Sri Lanka, and abroad. The purpose of the MA is to train and develop middle level career professionals. 

Aims of the Program:

• To provide the intellectual and professional foundation to the students for careers in librarianship and information Services
• To provide the skills and competencies in the management of libraries information centres, information resources, services and products
• To produce a pool of responsible, committed and balance minded professionals in this discipline
• To provide postgraduate qualifications and skills for working librarians who need such qualifications and training for their promotions and career development.
• To conduct research in the field of Library and Information Science, and to develop a strong research culture in the discipline within the country.

Objectives of the program

• To demonstrate an understanding of the types and nature, origin, collection, organization and delivery of information and its uses, the interaction between information and its users and the appropriate latest technology and systems that produce, analyse and disseminate information.
• To apply the theory and practice in relevant subjects areas where and when necessary.
• To acquire and put into practice up-to-date subject knowledge, techniques, professional judgment and appropriate behaviours and competencies relevant to the job market.
• To work as true professionals, lifelong information workers and learners with necessary understanding and expertise
• To produce high quality library and information professionals to fulfill the skilled manpower requirements in the field of library and information science in the country
• To produce high quality library and information professionals with necessary skills and capabilities to be driving forces of the emerging knowledge society
• To encourage and develop the research culture in LIS in Sri Lanka

Teaching Methods the Evaluation Criteria

Lectures, Tutorials, Presentations, Practical sessions, Individual and Group presentations,

Research project, Creative activities

Evaluation Procedure

 Assignments and Reports, Class Room Practical Tests, Projects, Presentations, Examinations