Graduate Skill - Information Literacy

The information literate person uses a range of skills to make sense of information and to construct new understandings. Having identified the need for information, its form and extent, the information literate person locates relevant information effectively and efficiently using a diverse range of appropriate sources and methods.

A successful outcome to the information gathering process relies on a fundamental ability to critically evaluate and analyse the information collected to discern its usefulness and relevance. Both the information gathered and the strategies used in its collection require continued evaluation, synthesis and reflection to ascertain their effectiveness. The process is a cyclical one as it repeats stages to define and refine information and strategies.

Proficiency in information literacy skills is essential for UniSC graduates as it enables them to be critical, informed and discerning citizens. It is also integral to professional competency.

An information literate person:

• Identifies that information is needed and defines what and how much is required.
• Understands quality sources and how to access these effectively.
• Determines appropriate and effective strategies to search for and manage relevant information.
• Critically evaluates, analyses and synthesises information as to its relevance, value and credibility.
• Uses information strategically.
• Uses information resources ethically and references appropriately.
• Applies information literacy skills to personal and professional practices and understands that their continued development and application is essential to being a lifelong learner.

Introductory

• Understands the basic practice of topic analysis and identifying the scope of research.
• Identifies several databases and information resources for a particular assignment.
• Locates, understands and accesses appropriate information sources.
• Finds relevant research that supports a claim, a research question or thesis statement.
• Accurately follows specific referencing guidelines.
• Avoids plagiarism.
• Discerns credibility of sources.

Developing

• Uses a range of information resources for a research topic.
• Critically analyses effectiveness, accuracy and rigour of information sources.
• Demonstrates accurate referencing and citation practice.
• Analyses, evaluates and synthesises information for an authentic discipline based problem.
• Demonstrates understanding of copyright laws and plagiarism.
• Demonstrates information literacy skills in context.
• Analyses and evaluates peer reviews of information summaries on discipline based research, according to a set of criteria; reflects on quality of information and process.

Graduate

• Uses a combination of research and evidence based resources to provide background and direction for authentic research project (intra- and interdisciplinary inquiry).
• Collaborates with professionals, industry experts and peers to review current and future discipline practices requiring information literacy skills.
• Makes judgments concerning the ethical, legal and moral values associated with sources and use of information.
• Demonstrates commitment to developing proficiency in using information literacy skills and technologies in Work Integrated Learning.
• Produces new discipline knowledge through well-developed research practices.