Scientific initiation as a device for developing information skills and conscious mediation of information

Abstract

Scientific initiation collaborates with the development of critical thinking, besides enhancing the creativity of the subjects, leading them to achieve a professional attitude and the development of information skills. In this context, this research aims to analyze the extent to which scientific initiation has contributed to the training of students of Archivology and Library and Documentation Courses, as well as their professionals. As for the methodology, this descriptive research is characterized as a case study, having as universe the students who participate and graduates who worked in the scientific initiation, being the sample those who are part of the Study and Research Group on Mediation and Communication of Information - GEPEMCI, Federal University of Bahia. As a result, one can perceive the development of competences acquired from the experiences in scientific initiation, as well as the access to new information that contributed to the academic and professional development. Other findings identified in the testimonies of the respondents were regarding the contributions that the guidance counselors provided in overcoming the difficulties and limitations indicated by the students and graduates in the process of performing the activities from the scientific initiation. There is a need for further studies that investigate the development of competences through the activities performed in the scientific initiation and that lead librarians and archivists to consciously perform their profession.