Information Literacy begins with an understanding of our individual needs for information. It is "the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information," (as defined by the Association of College and Research Libraries) and requires that we use information ethically.
Information literacy is important because we find ourselves in an increasingly complex environment. Not all information is equal; some is authoritative, current, reliable, but some is biased, out of date, misleading, and false. The amount of information available is going to keep increasing. The types of technology used to access, manipulate, and create information will likewise expand.
This Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education (Framework) grows out of a belief that information literacy as an educational reform movement will realize its potential only through a richer, more complex set of core ideas.
Scholarly research can sometimes be intimidating. These handouts can help students to locate information using various research methods.
Information literacy skills are used for academic purposes, such as research papers and group presentations. They're needed on the job—the ability to find, evaluate, use and share information is an essential skill. As a consumer these skills can help you to make wise and economical choices. You'll also use these skills by participating fully in our democratic system of government by becoming informed about the issues before you vote.
Synthesizing means to combine a large number of things into a cohesive whole. When you do research, synthesizing your sources can help to bring together different ideas and theories.