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Information Literacy: A Definition
Information literacy is defined as "the set of integrated abilities encompassing the reflective discovery of information, the understanding of how information is produced and valued, and the use of information in creating new knowledge and participating ethically in communities of learning."1 In this way, an information literate person interacts with information in four critical ways.
Why Information Literacy Matters
Information literacy fosters the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills and is essential for learners of all ages. When asking questions and seeking answers to those questions, an information literature individual is able to find information, develop informed opinions, evaluate sources, navigate information overload, and effectively contribute to the information landscape. These skills are transferrable in many settings.
At Salve Regina University, information literacy plays a critical role in supporting the university mission. Only by finding, accessing, and analyzing reliable information are Salve students able to build the knowledge and understanding necessary to work towards a world that is just, harmonious, and merciful.
In the college classroom, information literate students are able to strategically approach and complete their assignments, projects, and extracurricular activities. They are self-sufficient researchers who develop effective search strategies, critically evaluate information, and synthesize sources in order to provide new perspectives on issues that may have already been examined from various angles. They are then able to communicate information effectively and ethically to diverse audiences, including their peers and instructors.
In the professional field, information literate professionals are able to navigate the information needs of their given profession. They understand the issues confronting their field and are able to gather, analyze, and apply information to offer creative solutions to those problems. Information literate professionals are able to communicate information effectively and ethically to diverse audiences, including colleagues, employers, and other stakeholders.
In a democratic society, information literate citizens are empowered to develop informed opinions on issues that impact the complex world around them and to participate in efforts to resolve those issues on local, state, national, and global stages. Information literate citizens are able to gather, analyze, and use reliable information to recognize and understand diverse perspectives and needs.
References
1 Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL). (2015). "Framework for information literacy for higher education." Retrieved from https://www.ala.org/acrl/standards/ilframework