What is Information Literacy?
On this page, I will share some resources that will help you become information literate. Currently information literacy is defined as a set of abilities requiring individuals to "recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information." (ACRL). SIDE NOTE: This definition & standards are in the process of changing. I will update this guide after the draft is approved by ACRL (Association of College and Research Libraries).
The purpose of the Information Literacy Standards for Nursing is to
- provide a framework for faculty and students of nursing at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels in the development of information literacy skills for evidence-based nursing practice;
- encourage the use of a common language for nursing faculty and librarians to discuss student information seeking skills;
- guide librarians and nursing faculty in creating learning activities that will support the growth of information literacy skills over the course of a program of nursing education and for lifelong learning;
- provide administration and curriculum committees a shared understanding of student competencies and need; and
- provide a framework for continuing education in the area of information literacy for the field of nursing practice and research.
Although this guide is still a work in progress, I am providing links to several excellent tutorials that will help you get started in becoming information literate. Even though the 2 tutorials listed below were created by other schools they offer similar materials as APU. The only catch is - instead of going to the library website listed on the tutorials go to the APU Library website instead (http://www.apu.edu/library).
As always please email or call me if you have questions.
Denise R. Gehring
Associate Professor, Librarian for Graduate Nursing