Reconnaissance and Reflection

Foundations for Collaborative International Research with Canada and Ethiopia

Abstract

In this paper, we describe the process of an often experienced, but rarely documented, process of shaping a new research focus. Specifically, we report our initial work in planning a collaborative research initiative between educational institutions and libraries in Canada and Ethiopia. Using multiple qualitative methods for collecting a variety of information from different sources, and employing hermeneutic perspectives to begin to understand the context and challenges of literacy education and libraries in Ethiopia, we conclude with a framework for research questions centered on expanding basic literacy to digital literacy and the role of libraries in that endeavour.