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Factors affecting topic selection for theses and dissertations in library and information science: A national scale study

2020; Elsevier BV; Volume: 42; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.lisr.2020.101052

1873-1848

Hamid Keshavarz, Mohammad Reza Shekari,

Education and Critical Thinking Development

There exist many factors affecting topic selection for theses and dissertations in library and information science (LIS). A mixed exploratory method was used as the research methodology. An extensive literature review, semi-structured interviews, and questionnaires were used to collect data. The identified framework was composed of nine components and four main dimensions including personal issues, topic nature, information resources and research operability. A questionnaire derived from the conceptual framework was administrated among 391 postgraduate students across the country. Data analysis using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method showed high factor loadings related to all indexes, which resulted in a good fit for measurement, structural and overall models. Research operability was identified as the most effective factor in topic selection followed by information resources, personal issues, and topic nature. The final framework and its priorities provide LIS research and education with a list of indicators and considerations for practical and appraisal purposes.