Information literacy is the set of integrated abilities encompassing the reflective discovery of information, the understanding of how information is produced and valued, and the use of information in creating new knowledge and participating ethically in communities of learning.*
*Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) - Framework for Information Literacy in Higher Education
We all have stories about a time when we didn't know what we needed to know -- from registering for classes to choosing better sports equipment. In the working world, the consequences of information gaps, of "information illiteracy," can become enormous. To understand the impact of a lack of information, watch this 5 minute video, "Information Literacy: Why Is It Important?"
There are many dimensions to information literacy (IL) and many ways you can apply its concepts to the research work you are doing in this and all your courses. To explore a series of tutorials (both interactive and video) on the various aspects of IL, see the MSU Library's Information Literacy Tutorials page for modules about choosing a topic, understanding statistical literacy, presenting information, social issues, and more. In many cases you can take quizzes with these modules so that you retain what you're learning better. And if you have any questions about these or other skills and concepts, remember that you can always ask the Library for further assistance.
