Empirical research on the function of lifelong learning at public libraries which foster autonomous learning activities

2014 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 24500290
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Library and information science/Humanistic social informatics
• Research Institution: University of Tsukuba
• Principal Investigator: YOSHIDA Yuko 筑波大学, 図書館情報メディア系, 教授 (30292569)
• Project Period (FY): 2012-04-01 – 2015-03-31
• Keywords: 公共図書館 / 生涯学習 / エンパワーメント

Outline of Final Research Achievements

This study examines the potential for public libraries to act as mechanisms for boosting the empowerment and autonomous learning efforts of participants. It also provides a broad picture of independent learners via an examination of the actual content of their activities. After considering the history of autonomous learning activities and empowerment in public libraries, analysis models are constructed. To clarify the substantial content of autonomous learning activities, the author chose a specific group and traced their history through a content analysis of self-published documents. In addition to identifying the meaning of these activities to the participants, a micro approach that focuses on the creation process of autonomous learning is conducted through analysis of oral history provided by a longtime activist. The originality of this study lies in its presentation of autonomous lifelong learning activities and empowerment models alongside the tangible presence of a learner.

Free Research Field

図書館情報学　公共図書館論