DESIDOC Journal of Library & Information Technology
  • Year: 2008
  • Volume: 28
  • Issue: 2

Information Literacy: Essential Skills for the Information Age

  • Author:
  • Michael B. Eisenberg
  • Total Page Count: 9
  • Page Number: 39 to 47

The Information School of the University of Washington, Roosevelt Commons Building, 4th Floor, Box 352840, Seattle, WA, 98195-2840. E-mail: mbe@u.washington.edu, http://www.ischool.washington.edu/mbe

Abstract

Information literacy (IL) is the set of skills and knowledge that allows us to find, evaluate, and use the information we need, as well as to filter out the information we don't need. IL skills are the necessary tools that help us successfully navigate the present and future landscape of information. Information and technology affects every person in every possible setting—work, education, recreation. This paper offers an overview of IL focusing on three contexts for successful IL learning and teaching: (i) the information process itself, (ii) technology in context, and (iii) implementation through real needs in real situations. The author covers conceptual understandings of IL, the range of IL standards and models, technology within the IL framework, and practical strategies for effective IL skills learning and instruction in a range of situations.

Keywords

IL, Big6, information problem-solving, critical thinking, information technology, research skills, information skills, information process, technology skills