How do early career health sciences information professionals gain competencies?

• DOI: 10.5195/jmla.2016.14
• Publication Date: 2017-05-17T20:10:25Z
• Authors: Bethany A. Myers; Bredny Rodriguez
• Keywords: Educational Attainment

Objective: The purpose of this study was to describe early career health sciences information professionals’ self-reported attainment the Medical Library Association (MLA) Competencies for Lifelong Learning and Professional Success investigate various methods by which participants developed these competencies.Methods: A SurveyMonkey survey designed ascertain participants’demographic their competency attainment. ‘‘Early career’’ professionals were defined as those with less than five years professional experience. Participants asked rate each seven competencies on a five-point Likert scale regarding level agreement statement, ‘‘I have demonstrated competency.’’ who responded positively then indicate how they acquired multiple-choice, multiple-answer list. Free-text fields provided general comments elaborate answers. distributed through MLA email discussion list other related lists. Participation anonymous.Results: One hundred eighty-seven responses received. Out 187 respondents, 95 completed entire survey. majority agreed that had attained all 7 competencies. Of used develop competencies, most selected method formal library studies education. least likely report attaining via mentoring, volunteering, or internships. reported highest confidence in having ‘‘Health Sciences Information Services’’ competency, lowest ‘‘Research, Analysis, Interpretation’’ competency.Conclusions: These results contribute ongoing discussions proposed changes may also inform development educational opportunities prospective professionals.