Evidence-based information literacy instruction: Curriculum planning from the ground up

Abstract

The purpose of this longitudinal research study is to assess the information literacy (IL) skills of grade 12 students as they transition to university in order to determine their preparedness for academic work in the digital age. This poster reports the results of the first phase of this study which included a university-wide information literacy instruction (ILI) audit, as well as the administration of the quantitative Information Literacy Test (ILT) to 103 grade 12 students. Results indicate a gap between the expectations and skills required in secondary and post-secondary education. The results of this study contribute new knowledge to the research literature on IL, by providing a unique understanding of the information literacy skills possessed by grade 12 students as they transition to university. This will also be important for professional practice by providing librarians tasked with ILI with evidence enabling construction of tailored curriculum to address specific IL deficits shown by new students.