An information literate person is able to identify their specific information needs and locate and retrieve information from the abundance of available sources. They must be able to critically evaluate the reliability and accuracy of the information found, and synthesize and communicate newfound meaning from their accumulated sources.
Listed below are six principles of information literacy. Click on the attached files for more information about each principle:
1) Authority is constructed and contextual: Think critically about information. Ask questions about an author or organization's purpose. Consider a variety of diverse ideas and perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
2) Information creation as a process: The format of an information source determines how it is perceived, how we weigh its value.
3) Information has value: Demonstrate academic integrity by crediting the work of others; be a good information creator and consumer.
4) Research as inquiry: Research is a continual process; be flexible, curious, and creative; be persistent even when you feel stuck.
5) Scholarship as conversation: You are a contributor to scholarly conversations, as such, do your homework and take the time to learn and understand issues so you can participate meaningfully. Understand that not all voices are privileged and seek to understand why.
6) Searching as strategic exploration: Be prepared to revise your search strategy when you don't find the answers immediately. Use an organizational system to help you manage all the threads of your research.
We recommend using the SIFT source evaluation strategy developed by Mike Caulfield from the University of Washington's Center for an Informed Public.