What is Information Literacy?

"Information literacy is the ability to locate, evaluate, manage and use information from a range of sources for problem solving, decision making and research" (Bruce and Candy, 1995, p245).

Information literate people:

• recognise a need for information
• determine the extent of information needed
• access information efficiently
• critically evaluate information and its sources
• classify, store, manipulate and redraft information collected or generated
• incorporate selected information into their knowledge base
• use information effectively to learn, create new knowledge, solve problems & make decisions
• understand economic, legal, social, political & cultural issues in the use of information
• access & use information ethically & legally
• use information & knowledge for participative citizenship & social responsibility
• experience information literacy as part of independent learning & lifelong learning

Doyle, C.S. (1992) Final Report to National Forum on Information Literacy. (University of Calgary. Information Literacy Group, 1998) cited in Australia & New Zealand Information Literacy Framework, 2004, p3-4, URL: http://www.anziil.org/resources/Info%20lit%202nd%20edition.pdf

 

Why is Information Literacy Important at CQU?

CQU recognises the growing importance being placed on the the need for continuing education and regular updating of individual capacities and qualifications, of the need for people to be life-long learners.

(CQU Strategic Plan, 2006-2011, p5 URL: http://policy.cqu.edu.au/Policy/policy.jsp?policyid=607).

Graduates of CQU are expected to possess the ability to:

• monitor the environment, develop strategies, and capitalise on change
• acquire, evaluate and use information effectively
• solve problems and apply scientific reasoning
• use information technology
• apply discipline related theory to practice in both familiar and unfamiliar situations
• function effectively as team members and as team leaders
• communicate effectively.

(CQU Management Plan for Learning & Teaching, 2005-2009, p6 URL:
http://policy.cqu.edu.au/Policy/policy.jsp?policyid=554).

The Library aims to strengthen the University's commitment to the principles of lifelong learning and information literacy.

 

CQU Library's Vision Statement

CQU Library will support the learning community by devising strategies to improve skills and scholarly practice in complex contemporary information environments.  It will endeavour to make available relevant and timely information literacy education to students and staff of the University.  Information literacy programs will, where possible, be integrated with the curriculum, attain quality learning outcomes and develop transferable skills.  A variety of programs will be developed to provide a range of learning opportunities and to make the most effective use of staff and student time and resources.

 

References:

Australia and New Zealand Information Literacy Framework: Principles, standards and practice, 2nd edition (2004). URL: http://www.anziil.org/resources/Info%20lit%202nd%20edition.pdf

CQU Management Plan for Teaching & Learning 2004-2008. URL: http://www.cqu.edu.au/ppmanual/academic/t&lmanplan2004-08.doc

CQU Strategic Plan, 2006-2011. URL: http://policy.cqu.edu.au/Policy/policy.jsp?policyid=607

Bruce, C. and Candy, P.C. (1996) Developing information literacy graduates: prompts for good practice.  The Learning Link: information literacy in practice.  D. Booker (ed.).  Adelaide, AUSLIB Press.