Information literacy, as a concept, has suffered from terminological confusion and has been burdened with untenable expectations. In addition, insufficient attention has been given to the place of information with the context of information behavior or information practices generally. Significant challenges remain to developing information…

The original concept of information literacy (IL) identifies it as an enabler for lifelong learning and learning-to-learn, adaptable and transferable in any learning environment and context. However, practices of IL in electronic information and learning environments (e-environments) tend to question the origins, and workability, of IL on the…

Describes the concept behind the Technology Toolbox, a method being explored at Augustana College to build a foundation of basic information technology skills among students and faculty members. The materials and potential applications are examined and several issues related to this new form of instruction are discussed. (Author/KRN)

In order for patrons to make the wisest use of the library, they must be both computer and information-literate. Librarians are faced with the challenge of designing programs that fit the literacy needs of the community. Academic and school librarians may find that their users are mostly students who are familiar with computers, but need help with…

With the introduction of the library's OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog), CD-ROMs, the Internet, and OhioLINK, the University of Toledo library is faced with technological, instructional, and other challenges. The main challenge is the lack of a mediated classroom for group instruction. Current paper-based teaching methods do not always allow…

Examines the concepts of information literacy and digital literacy through a literature survey and analysis. Highlights include skills-based literacy, including library literacy, media literacy, and computer literacy; bibliographic instruction; business information; the information society; network literacy; Internet literacy; hyper-literacy; and…

This session will demonstrate how USC Sumter's Anderson Library recently developed information literacy and research skills program uses information technology available through the library introduce students, faculty and patrons to the methods and ethics of information research, with an emphasis on analyzing and defining information needs and…

Explains the on-line search services of the library at Northern Virginia Community College's Annandale Campus. Describes a statewide conference for librarians held at the college, a campus professional development workshop for faculty and staff, a classroom instruction program on information retrieval, and a one-credit library research skills…

This paper describes a model course that places the intersection of information literacy and critical thinking within the conceptual framework of how information technology impacts cultural, political, economic, and social systems in American society. Stepping beyond the boundaries of traditional library instruction, this model course also…

Illustrates how the "Big Six Skills" model of information problem solving (Task Definition, Information Seeking Strategies, Location and Access, Use of Information, Synthesis, and Evaluation) is a perfect match to the influx of technology in student research. Outlines two typical assignments that focus the Big Six perspective on the…

Applies the anthropological concepts of culture shock and ethnocentricity to problems of computer and nonprint literacy in an electronic library. The role of librarians as agents of socialization is discussed, and the concept of education as a lengthy, ongoing process is considered. (Contains 12 references.) (LRW)

Describes a program at Eastern Washington University that integrates library skills as a component of the English composition program, and is part of a computer-literacy program stemming from a general-education curriculum reform. Discusses program development and design, assessment of student learning, and effectiveness of the program. (LRW)

Stresses the importance of teaching the skills necessary for students to understand computer communications, including microcomputer and remote computer commands; how to get information from human resources through a bulletin board service or information utility; and keyword searching and Boolean logic. (EM)

This packet of materials is introduced by a report describing the prescriptive, student-centered library media program developed for and implemented in the Tarrant Elementary School in Birmingham, Alabama, in the early 1980s. This report covers the goals and objectives of the program, which are based on four key functions of design, consultation,…

Drexel University instituted a microcomputing program in 1984 which required all freshmen to own Apple Macintosh microcomputers. All students were taught database searching on the BRS (Bibliographic Retrieval Services) system as part of the freshman humanities curriculum, and the university library was chosen as the site to house continuing…