Transformations in the Professional Training of Library, Information and Archival Specialists in the Context of Digitisation: the Experience of the Vasyl Stus Donetsk National University

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to theoretically substantiate and develop a comprehensive model for training future specialists in library, information and archival science, which integrates humanities knowledge with digital technology skills to ensure their competitiveness in the context of the total digitalisation of society. Methodology. The study uses general and specific methods of scientific knowledge, in particular, the method of analysis of scientific publications; study and presentation of educational programmes for training future specialists; modelling to create a systematic training structure; summarising pedagogical experience in the process of analysing the practical activities of the Department of Information Management Systems at Vasyl Stus Donetsk National University; descriptive method and method of logical presentation of research results. The scientific novelty lies in the further development of the theoretical foundations for training specialists in the B13 specialty ‘Library, Information and Archival Studies’ in a technical and humanitarian educational environment. It has been proven that adapting training to the dynamic demands of the labour market in the context of digitalisation requires a shift in focus towards active management of digital content and internet communications. An integrated training model based on the synergy of traditional document science and the latest digital technologies has been proposed. Conclusions. In the context of intensive digitalisation of society and transformation of information and communication environments, there is a growing need for highly qualified specialists capable of working effectively with digital resources, managing information and knowledge, storing, systematization and analytical processing of data, and implementing innovative approaches to the provision of information services in scientific, educational, and socio-cultural environments. The study found that digitalisation processes are transforming the role of information specialists into multifunctional ‘IT humanitarians’ capable of combining classical document science with digital content management skills. Based on the experience of the Department of Information Systems at Vasyl Stus Donetsk National University, a training model has been proposed that provides for the integrated development of competencies for a new generation of information systems analysts, archivists and librarians, in which the use of modern information technologies is a key strategy for adapting the educational process to the current demands of the labour market.