Challenges and perspectives in integration of undergraduate and graduate studies in information science: the ICI/UFBA case

Abstract

This text presents some results of the research "Information science in Brazil: facing the present challenges to consolidate the field". It discusses aspects related to the integration between professional readiness at undergraduate level and graduate studies, based on a case study in the graduate program in information science at UFBA. To get information about this integration, we personally interviewed twelve professors, nine of whom teach at both levels; three only at graduate level. They discussed the potentialities and limitations of this integration; the compatibility of the graduate student's profile with the needs of graduate studies; and the role research can play in this integration. The actions suggested to improve this integration include better articulation between the curricula for these two levels of study; more effective interlocution between the undergraduate and graduate boards; increase in the number of scholarships in the area of information science and democratization of selection policies; investments in the physical and technological structures of the Institute of Information Science; increase in the number of graduate programs in this area, as well as a more equitable way of distributing them within the different regions in Brazil. Key words: integration undergraduate/graduate and research in information science; present challenges; Brazil