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Information Literacy Notes for Topic 1

Information literacy is essential in modern education, emerging from challenges such as information overload and globalization. It encompasses the ability to identify, evaluate, and use information effectively, forming the basis for lifelong learning across all disciplines. The benefits of information literacy include improved academic performance, critical evaluation of sources, and effective research skills.

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2 views3 pages

Information Literacy Notes for Topic 1

Information literacy is essential in modern education, emerging from challenges such as information overload and globalization. It encompasses the ability to identify, evaluate, and use information effectively, forming the basis for lifelong learning across all disciplines. The benefits of information literacy include improved academic performance, critical evaluation of sources, and effective research skills.

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remmyisure
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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TOPIC 1: INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION LITERACY

Information literacy is another feature of recent innovations in education and is paramount in any
education system. It is a new concept that has emerged as a result of the challenges the world is
facing in the information forum. It has come about as a result of globalization which was
prompted by world wide networks, information explosion which was caused by the development
of ICTs, Information overload which was triggered by too much information being posted on the
Internet and the web as well as technological developments such as Facebook, blogs, wikis,
websites etc. Information nowadays is everywhere and this has resulted in information literacy
being taught to scholars and society at large.

1.1 Definition of information


The American Library Association defines information as “…all ideas, facts, and imaginative
works of the mind which have been communicated, recorded, published and/or distributed
formally or informally in any format”.

1.2 Definition of information literacy


The Prague Declaration (2003) proclaims that information literacy is the ability to identify what
information is needed, understand how the information is organized, identify the best sources of
information for a given need, locate those sources, evaluate the sources critically, and share that
information. It is the knowledge of commonly used research techniques. “Information literacy
forms the basis for lifelong learning. It is common to all disciplines, to all learning environments,
and to all levels of education. It enables learners to master content and extend their
investigations, become more self-directed, and assume greater control over their own learning.”

An information literate person is one who is able to:

1. Determines the nature and extent of information needed.


2. Accesses the needed information effectively and efficiently.
3. Evaluate information and its sources critically and incorporates selected information into
his or her knowledge base and value system.
4. Uses information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose.
5. Understand many of the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of
information, and accesses and uses information ethically and legally.

1.3 Why Information literacy is critically important in the contemporary environment


1. We are surrounded by a growing ocean of information in all formats.
2. Not all information is created equal: some is authoritative, current, reliable, but some is
biased, out of date, misleading, and false.
3. The amount of information available is going to keep increasing.
4. The types of technology used to access, manipulate, and create information will likewise
expand.

1.4 Basic Concepts of Information Literacy


1. Information need: If one is unable to answer a question or solve a problem within
their frame of reference, it means they need more information
2. Information awareness: This is the knowledge base and skills framework utilize d
when one uses information. Information literacy is possible only if one has an awareness
of the role of information in society and in their own life.
3. Information skills: Accessing, evaluating and using information are fundamental skills
for information literacy.
4. Lifelong learning (LL): This is continuing on path of education throughout life.
Lifelong learning implies that whatever knowledge and skills one acquires through
learning; these should be effective throughout their life and enable them to continue
learning throughout their life.
5. Information task: An information task is any job which requires the use of information.
Any situation where one uses information to solve a problem or make a decision.
6. Information overload: Information has increased so rapidly over the years that more
and more expertise is required to use it effectively. The sheer abundance of information
and technology will not in itself create more informed citizens without a complementary
understanding and capacity to use information effectively.

1.5 Benefits of information literacy to students


The following are some of the benefits of information literacy:
 Students acquire a clearer understanding of where to find the best information and
knowledge when doing assignments and research projects
 Students produce better products in form of assignments, research projects and
academic essays
 Students use a wide variety of information resources
 Students evaluate information critically and systematically
 Students understands how to avoid plagiarism
 Students make acceptable citations and references
 Students seek various sources of evidence to substantiate their ideas and arguments.
They appreciate providing supporting evidence, standing upon the shoulders of
giants
 It contributes to improved student success and academic performance

1.6 Role of information in the information/knowledge society


 Information is used to increase chances of survival and improve the quality life.
 Information is a crucial resource in the economic, political and social life of nations.
Countries need to use it wisely if they are to be successful economically and
politically.
 Information can help solve problems and make decisions

 More importantly, information is needed for effective teaching, learning and research.

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