This seems to be a question with no correct answer. I have just started reading the first of many readings regarding Information Literacy and what it is and have read some of what people are writing on the forum. It has been said that Information Literacy is varying and different in different schools and contexts. It has been suggested that we should use definition that suit us and the context we are in.
From my first initial readings some things that have stuck with me is that information literacy is lifelong goal (Candy, 1993) for everyone including teachers and adults. Kuhlthau (1995) suggest that it is an umbrella term that has many parts that contribute to holistic development of individual to function in society. ALA also identify it as the ability to access, evaluate and use information from a variety of resources, reconise when information is needed and know how to learn.
It is also suggested that it involves:
*the attainment of skills and techniques
*the mastery of processes
*is a learning tool
*learning a specific and evolving behaviour
*critical thinking behaviour
*empowering learning (Owen, 1996)
Reed Tweed & Bailey's (1994) definition of 'New literacy' was interesting as it seems to relate to electronic information it does not mean that it is collaborative, multicultural and image driven as they suggest.
Abilock's (2002) website offered a detailed and outlined section of the steps in inquiry process of problem solving for information need. They outline the student outcomes, skills and how teachers are to guide this as well as how to tell they are achieving these skills. Perhaps this website appeals to me because there is a solid and explained definition.
Can information literacy have 1 set definition or is it forever evolving as it is suggested by many that have written about this topic? Perhaps further reading will help to clarify my own ideas.
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