Background on WCSU Libraries Information Literacy Program
Library Faculty Position Statement on Information Literacy
Tools:
- TIP Tutorial: Information Literacy tutorial for freshmen/other populations new to library research
- Information Literacy subject tutorials
- Web-based library guides and pathfinders
- Printed library guides and pathfinders
Mechanisms:
- General education program
- Library liaison program
- Work at Reference Desk/Point of Need
Needs Assessment: Information Literacy skills to strengthen (observations of WCSU Librarians)
- Students' ability to define information need. Compose an effective thesis statement
- "Contextualize" library research: infuse meaning and significance to the process. How can students avoid the "I need one source," "I need some articles on" syndrome. Students deserve to be excited about their research. What can teachers/librarians do to improve the research experience for students.
- Give students more opportunities to define their own information problems/questions. Issue-based/inquiry based learning models. Usually students are far more motivated when they decide the question/issue/topic they will be researching.
- Students have trouble discriminating between internet and database resources.
- "Google-itis" Students sometimes think that "everything is on the internet"; just search Google and that will be enough. If it's first/fastest, it's best. Quick and easy not always best route.
- Students are not always aware that they will use information literacy skills in their careers and throughout their lives. Lifelong learning skills are necessary in our economy/society. Info lit helps to solve life's problems and answer life's questions; it relieves us of uncertainty. Successful members of society have the ability to adapt to changing situations/conditions. In order to adapt successfully, one needs correct information to make decisions. This applies not just to the workplace, but every aspect of life.