Information Literacy

Definition: Information literacy is the ability to navigate, gather, aggregate and evaluate information from a wide range of resources to answer questions and solve problems.

Students interpret and synthesize information to assess its validity and relevance to meet individual and group needs.

Expand the headings to view the content.

  • What are the types of resources available to me to learn more about my topic? In what ways have I used these resources?
  • If I had questions, where would I go first to find answers? Second? Why?
  • How did I find resources about my topic? How did I evaluate them for accuracy, relevance, etc.?
  • When did I need to evaluate a situation or solve a problem, but needed more information? What did I do?
  • How have I conducted research or investigated resources to learn more about my topic?
  • How have I been able to shape, engage and interpret ideas around my topic?
  • How have I analyzed situations and information to gain better critical perspectives or to develop new strategies?
  • How have I used quantitative information or data to improve my understanding of the topic?

  • research
  • data analyses
  • reports, publications
  • charts, graphs, spreadsheets, databases
  • assessing knowledge, competencies, skills of others
  • expert-reviewed work, peer-reviewed work
  • collaborations, partnerships, teamwork
  • annotated bibliographies
  • resource examples or lists
  • social bookmarking sites, RRS feeds

  • collects and interprets information and relevant data from a wide range of resources to answer questions and/or solve problems
  • applies information to create and communicate knowledge to meet group needs
  • evaluates the quality, relevance, currency and accuracy of information
  • identifies and differentiates between various sources and selects appropriate information for the situation, problem or question
  • differentiates between opinion and factual information
  • uses feedback to improve the presentation and sharing of information
  • uses numeracy and mathematical functions to collect, organize and analyze data.

  • evaluates information sources for validity, quality, bias, commentary and authorial strength
  • recognizes that values and beliefs are embedded in all information
  • recognizes that information can change and evolve, especially dynamic online content
  • identifies and assesses the impact of different media types and sources on how information is created, communicated and used
  • recognizes self as a producer as well as a consumer of information
  • uses and cites information effectively in documenting resources and/or the development of original content
  • collaborates in gathering, developing and sharing information to meet group needs
  • uses numeracy and mathematical functions to integrate information, create new information and share this information with others.