Reflections on information literacy

Abstract

Information Literacy is an emerging discipline that operates according to a set of principles and strategies that enable individuals to make sense of the information we are exposed to on an ongoing basis. This discipline, which is defined as the ability to access and assess information, provides a framework that facilitates the discussion of Information with others-including children, peers, and the people responsible for the presentation of information. The paper identifies points of convergence with Media Literacy but makes the point that they remain distinct areas of study. The paper also identifies a series Lines of Inquiry that distinguishes this important discipline. Principle #1: The Body of Information (BOI) to which a person is exposed represents a version of reality. Instituting a BOI is a selective process; much depends upon which pieces of information have been assembled into a coherent narrative. Principle #2: The choice of audience affects the strategy and content of the information. Consequently, assessing the BOI - the composite of Information that has been collected by (or for) an individual—can provide insight into the intended audience. Principle #3: Data is, in itself, neutral. What determines whether it is instructive or deceptive depends largely on who is selecting and assembling the information, why it is being presented, and who is the intended audience.