Do-It-Yourself Information Literacy: Self-Directed Learning at a Distance

Abstract

Although academic librarians have been teaching information literacy online for years, the increasing number of nontraditional students learning online has motivated many librarians to develop Web-based tools that help students independently learn to identify, access, evaluate, and use information resources in the online environment. Adult learners, especially those learning at a distance, expect to take the initiative in directing their own learning. In 2011, Central Michigan University developed a self-directed learning module to guide graduate students through the process of researching and writing a literature review. Students can access the Literature Review Guide on demand to diagnose learning needs, examine a variety of multimedia tools and resources, select appropriate learning strategies, and evaluate their own learning outcomes. The planning, implementation and evaluation of this online learning resource can be replicated to develop self-directed learning modules that facilitate improved digital literacy skills for any student learning online. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.