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Instruction

Instruction

Information Literacy Instruction

Standard 2: Accessing Information

"The information literate student accesses needed information effectively and efficiently."

Basic Skills

  • Identifies keywords, synonyms and related terms for the information needed
  • Constructs a search strategy using appropriate commands for the information retrieval system selected (e.g., Boolean operators, truncation, and proximity for search engines; internal organizers such as indexes for books)
  • Implements the search strategy in various information retrieval systems using different user interfaces and search engines, with different command languages, protocols, and search parameters
  • Uses various search systems to retrieve information in a variety of formats
  • Uses various classification schemes and other systems (e.g., call number systems or indexes) to locate information resources within the library or to identify specific sites for physical exploration
  • Investigates the scope, content, and organization of information retrieval systems
  • Uses specialized online or in person services available at the institution to retrieve information needed (e.g., interlibrary loan/document delivery, professional associations, institutional research offices, community resources, experts and practitioners
  • Differentiates between the types of sources cited and understands the elements and correct syntax of a citation for a wide range of resources
  • Assesses the quantity, quality, and relevance of the search results to determine whether alternative information retrieval systems or investigative methods should be utilized
  • Repeats the search using the revised strategy as necessary
  • Records all pertinent citation information for future reference
  • Identifies gaps in the information retrieved and determines if the search strategy should be revised
  • Selects among various technologies the most appropriate one for the task of extracting the needed information (e.g., copy/paste software functions, photocopier, scanner, audio/visual equipment, or exploratory instruments)
  • Creates a system for organizing the information
  • Uses various technologies to manage the information selected and organized

Advanced Skills

  • Identifies appropriate investigative methods (e.g., laboratory experiment, simulation, fieldwork)
  • Investigates benefits and applicability of various investigative methods
  • Uses surveys, letters, interviews, and other forms of inquiry to retrieve primary information
  • Selects efficient and effective approaches for accessing the information needed from the investigative method or information retrieval system
  • Selects controlled vocabulary specific to the discipline or information retrieval source
  • Implements the search using investigative protocols appropriate to the discipline
  • Develops a research plan appropriate to the investigative method