2 results
1 - Design and testing of mobile library websites: best practices in creating mobile library applications
- from Part 1 - Best practice for the use of mobile technologies in libraries
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- By John Paul Anbu K., University of Swaziland Libraries, Sanjay Kataria, Jaype Institute of Information Technology Noida
- Edited by Gill Needham, Ally Mohamed
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- Book:
- M-Libraries 5
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 08 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 10 June 2015, pp 3-18
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- Chapter
- Export citation
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Summary
Introduction
The advancements in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT) and the unprecedented innovations and inventions have brought enormous change in all walks of life around the globe. The growth of the mobile communication medium is one of the important support systems of ICT which has seen a sea change over the years. This growth is ascribed to the desire of users for a number of different communications media to access the internet. From desktop computers, the mode of computing shifted to laptops and further into tablets. The proliferation of mobile technology, especially the 3G hype and the subsequent Wi-Fi innovations, have triggered an unprecedented change in the tools for access to the internet. Song and Lee observe that the users have ‘widely adopted mobile devices, such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and e-readers as their primary tools to access information’ (2012, 574). It is also worth noticing that in this rapidly changing environment, people have become ‘more dependent on wireless communication systems’ (Olatokun and Bodunwa, 2006, 530). The growth of mobile telephony, especially the ever-expanding growth in Asia and Africa in the use of cellular telephony, has seen a number of innovations both in the technology and in the service delivery of mobile communication technology. Academic institutions have benefited greatly from these innovations, as they form the cornerstone of the information society. Over the years the libraries, which act as the focal point of the academic community, have adapted these changing technologies in their service delivery. With the cosmic change of the mobile revolution around the globe, it is no surprise that libraries stand in the forefront of providing information to their users through the new mode of mobile technology.
Mobile technology and academic institutions
With the fascinating growth of the mobile communication system, it is worth noting the growth of its user base, especially amongst the academic community. Olatokun and Bodunwa observe that ‘Mobile phones have become an inseparable part of everyday life’ (2006, 530). Smith, Salaway and Borreson Caruso, in their study of undergraduate students and information technology (EDUCAUSE, 2009) shed light on the mindset of undergraduate students with respect to mobile usage. According to their study, 76.7% of undergraduate students have used smartphones not only for communication but also for accessing information.
2 - Mobile information literacy for libraries: a case study on requirements for an effective information literacy programme
- from Part 1 - Best practice for the use of mobile technologies in libraries
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- By Shri Ram, Jaypee University of Information Technology, John Paul Anbu K., University of Swaziland Libraries, Sanjay Kataria, Jaype Institute of Information Technology Noida
- Edited by Gill Needham, Ally Mohamed
-
- Book:
- M-Libraries 5
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 08 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 10 June 2015, pp 19-30
-
- Chapter
- Export citation
-
Summary
Introduction
The use of mobile technologies is rapidly growing and it has played an important role in the management of relations between people in social, economic and everyday life (Muller et al., 2005; Goh et al0, 2006). Throughout history access to information has played a crucial role in the development of humanity. Previously, people had to obtain information from scientists, clergy, libraries and universities. Today, however, they can access information without the need for such efforts (Maxwel, 2000).
In the era of information technology and penetration of the internet, libraries face a huge challenge in attracting users. When most information is now available over the internet in digital format, libraries are challenged to retain their users and ensure the proper utilization of library resources. Information technology has always played a leading role in promoting access to information resources in libraries. With the advent of technology, information awareness and access has become more available to the user, ensuring 24/7 access. Libraries which mostly follow the traditional information service delivery struggle to provide 24/7 on-demand services and the budget crisis in many libraries sees them losing staff (Magbanua, 2008). Consequently, the needs of library users have increased rapidly and user needs should be fulfilled everywhere and every time rather than anywhere and anytime. In order to overcome the communication gap between the user and the library, and to meet users’ needs, this paper proposes ‘mobile information literacy’, which utilizes short messaging services (SMS) that allow users to be informed of the services and activities of the library everywhere and at all times. This paper looks at the starting point in assessing the need for integrating mobile technology in an information literacy programme at Jaypee University of Information Technology (JUIT), Solan, India. The aim is to take a closer look at the routine uses of the mobile phone in relation to students’ study activities. The mobile is the key communication device and medium for constant updating, coordination, information access, documentation and information literacy.
Information literacy transition and penetration of mobile technology
Wilber (2008) has examined students’ literacy and digital technology practices in the context of colleges and universities. She concludes with the acceptance of the concept of ‘new’ literacies. Her conclusion is based on the set of literacy practices which mark a change in usage, based on the context and the tool.