Information Literacy Instruction
nounPronunciation: /ɪnˌfɔːrˈmeɪʃən ˈlɪtərəsi ɪnˈstrʌkʃən/
Formal teaching programs and integrated curriculum components designed to develop students' abilities to identify, locate, evaluate, and effectively use information from diverse sources. It emphasizes critical thinking and research skills essential for academic and professional success.
Plain English
Teaching students how to find, assess, and properly use information for research and decision-making.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Information literacy instruction is now embedded in first-year seminars to help students become independent researchers."
Style guide notes: Use 'information literacy' as a noun; distinguish from 'media literacy' and 'digital literacy,' which have different focuses.
Also known as
Contrasted with
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is information literacy instruction important in higher education?
Students need skills to navigate abundance of information, distinguish reliable sources, and conduct effective research across disciplines.
What topics are typically covered in information literacy sessions?
Database searching, source evaluation, plagiarism prevention, citation formats, and recognizing scholarly versus popular sources.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Central to academic librarianship and widely assessed in professional competency standards.
Required skill level: Mid