What is Information Competence?

Information Competence or Information Literacy is a set of abilities requiring individuals to "recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information."

Information literacy forms the basis for lifelong learning. It is common to all disciplines, to all learning environments, and to all levels of education. It enables learners to master content and extend their investigations, become more self-directed, and assume greater control over their own learning. An information literate individual is able to:

• Determine the extent of information needed
• Locate and access the needed information effectively and efficiently
• Evaluate information and its sources critically
• Organize, synthesize and incorporate selected information into one's knowledge base
• Use information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose
• Understand the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information, and access and use information ethically and legally
• Communicate information effectively to an audience

Some helpful Websites:

Information Literacy: Overview, Resources and Ideas, Standards and Guidelines, and Professional Activity

Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education