Practice-based learning in LIS education: An overview of current trends

Abstract

Practice-based learning (PBL) has been a staple of the preservice curricula of Library and Information Science (LIS) programs. While the status/importance of PBL continues to be debated in LIS education in the United States, an increasing number of programs offer these experiences to their students in the form of practicums, internships, fieldwork, service learning, or community-based projects. This article will look at the most recent statistical data on fieldwork experiences offered by LIS schools and examine the ways in which these practical experiences are organized and infused throughout the curricula. While the focus will be programs accredited by the American Library Association in the United States, reference will be made to international curricula where applicable.