What is information literacy?
Have you ever had to buy a car? Decide who
to vote for in an election? Make a decision regarding your health?
Plan a vacation? Select a college? Interview for a job? Decipher
media messages?
These are just several examples of
scenarios we all face day to day that require sound information, critical
thinking, and careful decision making.
An
information literate person is equipped with the knowledge and set of skills
necessary to face these and many additional challenges life throws our way.
An information literate person is able to recognize when information is
needed, locate, evaluate and use information effectively to succeed in
school and life.
The information universe has
become increasingly complex. The MCC reference librarians have made a
commitment to ensure all students are information literate upon graduation.
The college has supported that commitment by making information literacy one
of the general education goals.
You may think that
just because you know how to use a search engine to find web sites or can
use a computer you are information literate. Information literacy,
however, goes beyond basic computer literacy. It includes the ability
to evaluate information and the ability to shape, repackage, or
utilize the information in a meaningful and productive way. It
involves the ability to effectively use a wide range of information-seeking
sources and information formats. It carries you beyond the skills you
need to succeed in school to the skills you need to succeed in life.
So why do you need information literacy?
Because you don't want to float through life
having people tell you what to think or making your decisions for you.
You want to be capable of figuring it out on your own armed with the
information and skills you need to do so.
MCC Library Information
Literacy
Program, Goals & Objectives
