Information Literacy is:
A set of abilities requiring individuals to "recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information."
More specifically information literacy is "increasingly important in the contemporary environment of rapid technological change and proliferating information resources. Because of the escalating complexity of this environment, individuals are faced with diverse, abundant information choices—in their academic studies, in the workplace, and in their personal lives. The uncertain quality and expanding quantity of information pose large challenges for society. The sheer abundance of information will not in itself create a more informed citizenry without a complementary cluster of abilities necessary to use information effectively. Information literacy forms the basis for lifelong learning. It is common to all disciplines, to all learning environments, and to all levels of education." Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education. American Library Association . 2006. (Accessed 27 May 2009).
Information Literacy is not a new "buzz word". Librarians have spent years teaching faculty, staff and students how to effectively access, search and apply information.
Click on the link below to read more on each of these key areas and learn how you can help your students become lifelong learners.
· Information Literacy: Past and Present
· Clarifying The Term
· Collaboration
· Leadership of Administrators
· The Role of the Librarian
