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Library Skills Learning Modules

The Value of Information Literacy

Information Literacy

The foundations of Information Literacy are the abilities to know where to find the information you need to solve a problem or answer a question, access that information quickly and ethically, evaluate the credibility of the information, use the information effectively, and share that information responsibly and appropriately. Information Literacy is an important part of your life. In school, you become more information literate by improving your research skills. In your everyday life, you can improve your decision making-process by critically thinking through your options.  Librarians LOVE to help students build information literacy skills and critical thinking skills, so when in doubt, remember you can always ask a librarian.   

INFORMATION LITERACY

  1. FIND - Where can I identify useful information? What do I need to know?
  2. ACCESS - Where can I access the information I need? What sources are good to use?
  3. EVALUATE - Do I think this information is accurate and trustworthy?
  4. USE - How does this information help me?
  5. SHARE - Would I redistribute this information to others? Do I have enough data to cite my source?

To understand more about the value of information literacy, watch this clip from the PIL Freshman Study. 

CRITICAL THINKING is under the umbrella of INFORMATION LITERACY

Information Literacy umbrella with critical thinking included

 

 

 

 

 

 

Components of Critical Thinking

A critical component of Information Literacy is the process of critical thinking. Remember, critical thinking IS a process. Critical thinkers use reason and logic to make informed decisions. They can identify assumptions and analyze information to inform their judgements. Critical thinking is not only the ability to determine what credible information can be used to solve specific problems, but also the process of clearly communicating the reasoning behind a decision and the ability to reflect and learn new perspectives and viewpoints. 

Quiz

Learning Objectives

  • Students will understand that critical thinking is a part of information literacy
  • Students will understand the value of information literacy
Subjects: *Topic Guides