Framework for knowledge management curricula in Africa: an analysis of existing programmes and recommendations for the future
Keywords:
University Academic Programmes, frameworks, Africa, knowledge management, curricula, curriculum design, learning theories, learning outcomes, employment, universitiesAbstract
This paper is based on a study that assessed information and knowledge management curricula in selected universities in Africa with a view to identifying convergence and possible gaps. The study assessed the justification of the programmes, their rationale and purpose, curriculum outcomes, and career opportunities. Further, the paper analysed the content structure and delivery mode, and identified a cluster of courses with emphasis on professional interest and occupational linkages. A review of relevant literature informed the study on the trends in implementation of the knowledge management curriculum. A review of universities websites was done to identify universities that offer information and knowledge management courses. Through a phenomenological research design, a structured online questionnaire was designed and distributed to 15 universities in Africa. The findings indicate that knowledge management programmes were developed in the context of national goals, global Sustainable Development Goals, development plans and the occupational needs of the information and knowledge industry. There were major similarities in the curriculum offered in the respective universities. For example, the occupational professional skills and competencies exhibited by the curricula prepared the learners to work as knowledge managers and practitioners in the industry. It was observed that the knowledge management curricula emphasises professional discourse as a substantial body of theoretical knowledge that forms the intellectual foundation of the discipline. The study has proposed a framework to guide in the development and implementation of knowledge management curricula in Africa.
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