Abstract

This study focuses on academic institutional repositories as tools that allow us open access to scientific and academic production. Specifically, we analyze the Top 50 European University repositories differentiating, firstly, those repositories linked to Spanish universities compared to those belonging to universities throughout Europe and, secondly, repositories that only include research content as opposed to those that also include teaching content. Specifically, this work complements previous studies on the consolidation of the repositories, focusing on the analysis of the competitive environment by considering their participation and relative visibility shares. The analysis, using competitive maps and comparative advantage method, allows us to identify European university repositories that lead their segments, in terms of their levels of participation and web visibility in the market. In general, without distinguishing by segments, results show that the leadership at European level in terms of participation is held by the University College of London (UK) and the repository of the University of Umea (Sweden) is the leader in visibility.

Abstract

The digital transformation of the university is linked to the integration of technology tools and digital resources to all areas of the organization: management, academic offerings, learning processes, research, and communication. This transformation is an obligation, but also an opportunity, not only to the university, but also to the its library, which can seize the opportunity to lead the process.

Abstract

An overview of the iSchools movement and its evolution in recent years is presented. Its growth at a global level is described, stating that the number of centers outside the United States has surpassed the number inside. Perspectives of growth are analyzed. Continental chapters have been created, and the European one is described. Considering that, at present, there are 6 Iberian iSchools, some future possibilities for collaboration are suggested.

Abstract

The massive online open course (mooc) has had a great impact in the landscape of higher education. Analysts say the MOOCs will have a disruptive effect on universities and teaching practice. Universitieswill be forced to change. The psychopedagogical substrate of the moocs is the “flipped education” model in which learning takes place from discussions with fellow students and teachers. We analyze the impact of moocs in university libraries.

Abstract

Infoaces (Integrated information system for higher education in Latin America) is a new project to design a university information system. The main types of university information sources and the main features of Infoaces are described, paying special attention to the system of indicators/markers and the information platform.

Abstract

The results of the 2010 Cotec report on the culture of innovation among Spanish young people on the European scene are not very optimistic. There is a socioeconomic and cultural environment that is not ideal to promote an innovation culture. Therefore, analyzing the situation and taking the results into account can help to improve the skills of young people. The interactions between academia and industry and the factors affecting employability are discussed. Also crucial to increase innovation is to have a stable job market. Success stories of European institutions in which there is a direct relationship between companies and universities are described.

Abstract

First, the main lines of university support for open access are described. Then, four actions taken in first semester 2008 are discussed: EUA recommendations, the white paper “Open doors, open minds” and, in Spain, a declaration from Univ. de Barcelona and a research call in Univ. Rey Juan Carlos I. The text concludes emphasizing the relation between university policies that support open access and accomplishing the social aspect of the third mission of universities: transfer.