Information literacy extends beyond school and the academic world. It reaches right into the workplace and everyday life. Successfully writing a research paper for class is one thing; finding solutions to complex, knotty problems is another. Central to thriving in various contexts is the ability to use information resources and technologies effectively to find and manage information. The ability to critically evaluate and ethically apply that information to real-world situations is required. Individuals so equipped will often bring the spirit of curiosity and perseverance to discover what is necessary to get the job done. We live in the Information Age. “Information” is increasing at a breathtaking pace. While the Internet does make resources quickly and easily available, much of it will lack relevance, accuracy, or value to you. Sorting through data dumps to find high-quality information has become more difficult, not easier! Finding the knowledge that you need is not always inexpensive in terms of time or money. Although you may have mastered one particular information technology today, that does not stop the one right behind it from replacing it and requiring you to learn how to use it tomorrow. Whatever your age or circumstance, you will benefit from learning the key habits, strategies, and skills that minimize information overload. When you increase your skills, you increase your ability to gracefully sidestep a disinformation avalanche. Employers and entrepreneurs are looking for people who can understand and adapt to the new norms. A graduate who knows how to learn is a much more attractive job candidate. An information-literate individual -with strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills – can be expected to be an adaptable, capable, and valued employee. These highly trained individuals have much more to contribute. Intellectual freedom outright demands that you learn skills that enable you how to think instead of what to think. Whatever your individual situation, we are here for your professional and personal development. Contact LightSource Information today to discover how we may assist you in “dispelling the darkness.” LightSource Principal & Cybrarian (September 2021) |
