Doctor of Philosophy in Library and Information Science

Purpose

This qualification allows the enrolling learner to undertake original research and be competent in applying advanced research skills to solve a problem within a Library and Information Science and related field and to contribute to the existing body of knowledge and practice. The learner will submit an original thesis reporting the results of the research. Learners achieving this qualification are competent in applying advanced research skills to solve a problem within a Library and Information related field and to contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

Rationale

A Doctor of Philosophy in Library and Information Science (LIS) will provide learners with an opportunity to conduct independent original research through scientific discourse and independent investigation and thereby contribute to the body of knowledge in the Library and Information Sciences field. The rapid changes in technology has expanded the Library and information Sciences field and this calls for the need to develop the capacity of research to conduct research for the application of the advances in technology with the LIS sector. There is also need for more qualified individuals to develop capacity in the academic area. After completing this qualification, the graduates will have mastered the skills to be independent researchers in the LIS field.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Learners may gain access to the qualification by the university's RPL policy.

The institution has appropriate policies and procedures for Recognition of Prior Learning, including the identification, documentation, assessment, evaluation and transcription of prior learning against specified learning outcomes so that it can articulate with current qualifications. However, the qualification cannot be entirely solely via RPL.

Entry Requirements

• Master's degree in the Library and Information Science, NQF Level 9.
• A cognate Master's Degree or Level 9 qualification, NQF Level 9.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at NQF Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

• Full Research Thesis,360 Credits.

1. Develop and present a research proposal independently.
2. Read and examine academic literature with insight.
3. Apply the theoretical foundations of the various sub-disciplines of LIS.
4. Demonstrate and apply the methodological frameworks that are most appropriate for conducting LIS research.
5. Conduct research independently and produce an original contribution to the body of knowledge in Library and Information Science and related fields.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria applies across all Exit Level Outcomes

• Demonstrate expertise and critical knowledge in the LIS sector.
• Develop new methods, techniques, processes, systems in original, creative and innovative ways appropriate to specialised and complex contexts with the LIS field is clear.
• Demonstrate intellectual independence and research management development in an ethical and accountable manner.
• Produce independent, in-depth and publishable outputs that meet national and international standards and considered to be new or innovative by peers and makes a significant contribution to the LIS field.

Integrated Assessment

Through a thesis, in which the learner is expected to present integrated research findings, interpreted and linked to the existing literature with a level of novelty or original contribution in the Library and Information Science field.

Assessment and moderation will be undertaken in compliance with institutional policies and procedures of a Doctoral thesis and submitted to two external examiners, one of which would ideally be international as approved by the relevant institutional committees.