What is "Information Literacy?"

"Information literacy" is the ability to recognize when information is needed, and to effectively locate, evaluate, and use that information in an ethical and legal manner. Note that the ability to locate information is only one small part of this definition. Information Literacy extends well beyond teaching students how to locate a book in the library. It emphasizes a broader spectrum of skills and conceptual understandings that must be developed over time as students engage in the curriculum. The need for information literacy is not particular to any one course or discipline, but rather is an essential part of lifelong learning and informed citizenship. In the 21st Century information literacy is essential for academic, professional, and personal success. For more on defninitions and models of information literacy, try the following links.

• Information Literacy from the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL)
• Information Literacy in a Nutshell: for faculty and administrators, from ACRL
• Information Literacy as A Liberal Art: Enlightenment Proposals for a New Curriculum (Shapiro and Hughes)
• Seven Faces of Information Literacy in Higher Education (Christine Bruce, Australia)
• Big Blue (UK, higher ed)
• Big Six (US, K-12 and higher ed)

What We Do

Our program provides instruction in a variety of ways to meet the diverse needs and learning styles of those in the campus community:

• For-Credit Research Methods Classes
• Course-Integrated Instructional Sessions
  • Technology
  • Research Skills
• Curriculum Design Consultations (research focused)
• Orientation Tours and Presentations
• Drop-in Workshops
• Instructional Handouts and Web Materials
• Online Tutorials
• Individual Instructional Consultations

How We Can Work With You

The most effective way to integrate information literacy goals into any course is to work closely with a subject librarian while developing the syllabus and any course assignments. These collaborations can result in more effective assignments, less frustration for the students, and greater knowledge of appropriate information resources. Like any partnership, this can take many shapes and forms, such as:

• Help determine the most appropriate type of library instruction: class session, part of a class session, Web page, handout, tutorial, etc.
• Schedule library instruction to coincide with when students are working on research assignments and are most motivated to learn.
• Help design an engaging research assignments and learning activities that introduces your students to research process and a variety of information sources
• Follow up with students and offer additional assistance through Blackboard, e-mail and individual consultations.

Libraries' Information Literacy Working Group

The Libraries' Information Literacy Working group charge and membership can be found here.

How to Get Started and Get More Information

Effective library instruction takes time to prepare and is in great demand. To ensure that your students will get the instruction they need when they need it, please contact us as far in advance as possible.

For more information about the Information and Technology Literacy Instruction Program, please contact the Head of Instructional Services:

Erin Ellis , (785) 864-5589, e-mail: eellis@ku.edu.