FROM LIBRARY TO LEARNING RESOURCE CENTRE AND RESEARCH (LRC): THE NEW CHALLENGES, CASE OF AN ECUADORIAN UNIVERSITY

Abstract

The objective of this academic paper is to assess the structure and dynamics of the Resource Center for Learning and Research (Centro de Recursos para el Aprendizaje y la Investigación -CRAI) of the University of Milagro, Ecuador, based on the following components: Human talent, space/environment and technology. The methodology used corresponds to a non-experimental, sectional, descriptive research. The information was obtained through a survey applied to a sample of 335 CRAI users. The results obtained bythe Iramuteq 0.7 alpha 2, R interface and SPSS version 22 software conclude that the CRAI users' needs are mainly focused on human talent performance and the increase of means that allow them to perform their academic and research works. It is inferred that the material by itself is not enough without the correct support of the staff, that plays an important role in learning and research services. It is recommended the adoption of a model that promotes the development of learning and research aligned with the university's mission, which combines support for teaching, support for research, multiple literacy and library.