Information Competency at GHC
Information competency is the ability to access, evaluate, and apply information from a variety of sources and in a variety of contexts.
You will know you are information competent when:
You recognize the types of information needed to answer your question.
For example:
You identify key concepts and terms that describe the information needed.
You understand the differing uses of primary and secondary sources, statistical and narrative information, etc.
You understand that your question or topic may need to be refined or modified to achieve a manageable focus.
You identify possible sources of information and plan to obtain different types and formats as needed.
For example:
You examine general information sources (e.g., encyclopedias) to increase your familiarity with the topic.
You recognize the purpose and audience of potential resources (e.g., popular vs. scholarly, current vs. historical).
You can find information in a variety of formats (e.g., database, website, statistics, multimedia, printed book).
You develop search strategies that extract relevant information from the best sources for your need.
For example:
You employ a variety of sources (e.g., library catalog and databases, search engines) to gather information.
You use appropriate technologies to find information.
You understand that the use of keywords, truncation, Boolean operators, and controlled vocabulary affects your search results.
You assess the quantity, quality and relevance of your search results to identify gaps and determine if follow up searches are required.
You apply criteria for evaluating information and its sources.
For example:
You analyze the structure and logic of supporting arguments or methods.
You examine and compare information from various sources in order to evaluate reliability, validity, accuracy, authority, timeliness and point of view or bias.
You recognize the context (cultural, political, business etc.) in which information is created and understand the impact of context on interpreting the information.
You organize and manipulate information from multiple sources for practical application.
For example:
You use information from various sources to reach an informed conclusion.
You create a product that meets the requirements of the assignment.
You integrate new information into your existing body of knowledge.
You communicate your conclusions and findings using appropriate technologies.
You attribute information to its sources so that others may access them and evaluate your work.
For example:
You understand what plagiarism is and you recognize the value of citing your sources.
You use correct and consistent citation style appropriate to a specific discipline.
You are able to locate information about documentation styles either in print or online.
The John Spellman Library has developed a plan for integrating Information Literacy on our campus. It can be found here: Information Literacy Action Plan.
Students interested in improving their Information Literacy skills can enroll in Library 101: Introduction to Information Resources.
Faculty members who would like to discuss Information Literacy, talk to a librarian about IL assignments or get a library orientation for their class, can contact Adrienne Roush. (aroush@ghc.edu ) or (360) 538-4053.
Based on:
ACRL Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/acrl/standards/informationliteracycompetency.cfmpan>
Information Competency at Tacoma Community College
http://www.tacomacc.edu/library/about/informationcompetency.aspx
Information Literacy at Spokane Falls Community College
http://library.spokanefalls.edu/facultyServices/Literacy.htm
Mike Eisenberg's and Bob Berkowitz's “The Big 6”
http://www.big6.com/what-is-the-big6/
Grays Harbor College 1620 Edward P. Smith Drive, Aberdeen, WA. 98520 (360)538-4050 (800)562-4830