How do you teach information literacy across all levels of education?

1 Define information literacy goals

The first step is to define what information literacy means for your specific context and audience. You can use existing frameworks and standards, such as the ACRL Framework for Higher Education or the AASL Standards for the 21st Century Learner, as a guide. But you should also tailor your goals to the learning outcomes, curriculum, and needs of your students. For example, information literacy for elementary school students might focus on basic research skills, such as identifying keywords, using search engines, and citing sources. Information literacy for college students might emphasize critical thinking, analysis, synthesis, and argumentation.

2 Design engaging activities and assessments

The second step is to design activities and assessments that align with your information literacy goals and that engage your students in meaningful and authentic tasks. You can use a variety of methods and formats, such as inquiry-based projects, games, simulations, case studies, portfolios, or presentations. You should also incorporate multiple sources and formats of information, such as books, articles, websites, videos, podcasts, or data. The key is to make the activities and assessments relevant, challenging, and fun for your students.

3 Collaborate with teachers and faculty

The third step is to collaborate with teachers and faculty who are responsible for delivering the content and instruction in your students' courses and programs. You can work with them to integrate information literacy into their curriculum, syllabus, and assignments. You can also offer your expertise and support in developing and teaching information literacy sessions, workshops, or modules. By collaborating with teachers and faculty, you can ensure that information literacy is embedded and aligned with the disciplinary and academic expectations and standards of your students.

4 Use technology and tools

The fourth step is to use technology and tools that can enhance and facilitate your information literacy instruction and assessment. You can use online platforms, such as LibGuides, Canvas, or Google Classroom, to create and share information literacy resources, tutorials, quizzes, or feedback. You can also use digital tools, such as Kahoot, Padlet, or Flipgrid, to create and deliver interactive and collaborative information literacy activities and assessments. You can also use social media, such as Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube, to communicate and promote your information literacy services and events.

5 Reflect and evaluate

The fifth step is to reflect and evaluate your information literacy instruction and assessment practices. You can use data and evidence, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, or rubrics, to measure and analyze the impact and effectiveness of your information literacy interventions. You can also use feedback and suggestions from your students, teachers, faculty, and colleagues to identify and address the strengths and weaknesses of your information literacy program. By reflecting and evaluating, you can improve and innovate your information literacy services and outcomes.

6 Stay updated and informed

The sixth and final step is to stay updated and informed about the latest trends, developments, and issues related to information literacy and library services. You can join and participate in professional associations, networks, and communities, such as ALA, ACRL, or AASL, that offer information literacy resources, events, and opportunities. You can also read and follow blogs, podcasts, newsletters, or journals, such as In the Library with the Lead Pipe, The Librarian Parlor, or Communications in Information Literacy, that share information literacy research, practice, and perspectives. By staying updated and informed, you can keep your information literacy skills and knowledge current and relevant.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?