The Conceptualisation of Information Literacy and its Relevance to Higher Education

Abstract

Information Literacy is a broad term that incorporates all forms of information related learning. This paper will discuss the conceptualization of information literacy and its relevance to higher education. Information Literacy is a set of competencies to locate, analyse and evaluate information critically for decision making. These competencies supports the learning process in higher education. The learner is able to locate information amidst information overload and is able to conduct research by employing information literacy skills. In higher education, information literacy promotes originality and innovativeness through critical thinking .At national level, information literacy is a social empowerment that equips the learner with skills they will use for life time. Therefore, Information literacy education in higher education is essential to produce a work force of flexible lifelong learners which is a primary vision for higher education.Information Literacy is a broad term that incorporates all forms of information related learning. This paper will discuss the conceptualization of information literacy and its relevance to higher education. Information Literacy is a set of competencies to locate, analyse and evaluate information critically for decision making. These competencies supports the learning process in higher education. The learner is able to locate information amidst information overload and is able to conduct research by employing information literacy skills. In higher education, information literacy promotes originality and innovativeness through critical thinking .At national level, information literacy is a social empowerment that equips the learner with skills they will use for life time. Therefore, Information literacy education in higher education is essential to produce a work force of flexible lifelong learners which is a primary vision for higher education.