Development of information-related competencies in European ODL institutions Senior managers' view

Purpose - To investigate senior university managers' views of the development of information-related competencies (IRC) within European open and distance learning (ODL) universities. Design/methodology/approach - A multiple case study in six ODL universities, identified as examples of "good practice" of IRC, in five European countries. Findings - The findings of the research indicated that the importance of IRC and the lack of these competencies among students and staff were acknowledged by the university senior managers. National policy supported IRC development via different initiatives, but the integration of IRC into learning was in the beginning stage in all institutions studied. The role of the university library and collaboration with librarians were regarded as important. However, a general attitude towards librarians was not so positive. Research limitations/implications - This study was limited to six ODL universities in Europe; the university managers' views and attitudes elsewhere will need further research. Practical implications - The long-term sustainable IRC development requires support of senior managers. It is important that university senior managers recognise the importance of IRC and encourage their staff to develop these competencies. Therefore, librarians working in universities need to communicate the benefits of IRC development to university senior managers. Originality/value - This paper supports the idea that collaboration between librarians and administrative as well as academic staff within the university is important in enhancing IRC.