Information literacy (IL) initiatives in Bangladesh: a case study

Abstract

The aim of this study is to understand the dynamics of the initiatives and measures undertaken by organizations/institutions of Bangladesh for introducing Information Literacy (IL) and all the issues surrounding IL programs given that there are so many challenges and so many milestones to accomplish. The study reveals the importance of Information Literacy in a country like Bangladesh that is struggling towards development in an information era. The study includes various definitions of IL from different people who mastered the concept of IL. It includes the origin, necessity and scope of Information Literacy. A very important branch of this study is a Case Study on Dhaka Ahsania Mission’s initiatives, programs, and continual activities to introducing IL and their efforts to carry on spreading awareness and establishing the building blocks for IL education as far as they can reach within their capacity and limitations. Face to face interviews were one of the methodologies that were used and conducted to obtain more information regarding IL. The study incorporates the challenges that act as an impediment in the way of achieving Information Literacy in Bangladesh taking into consideration all the limitations both in personal and organizational levels. Included are also recommendations to overcome these hurdles or obstacles through effective approaches and measures. The findings of this study summarize the need/essentiality of Information Literacy in Bangladesh for the country to be able to cope up with the ever growing scope of Information.