The Learning CentreInformation Literacy Skills
Learning OutcomesBy the end of this session you should be able to:
Develop the research skills you already have
Increase your understanding of where you can find information
Be able to assess the quality of the information you find
What are Information Literacy Skills?
“Information literacy is knowing when and why
you need information, where to find it, and how
to evaluate, use and communicate it in an ethical
manner”
(CILIP, 2012)
What is the purpose of research?
To learn more about your subject from what others
have written
The creation and support of objective
arguments
To demonstrate you have studied the
topic in depth
To see the “full picture” related to
the topic
To give evidence of theories
Develop essential life and
employability skills
Why We Researc
h!
Where can you find information?
The Internet (Google) is not the only way to
research!
Books and ebooks
Newspapers (online)
Magazines and Journals
TV and Radio Documentaries
Your tutor / Class Handouts
Beware of Google and WikipediaRobbie Williams eats domestic
pets(hamsters) in pubs for money (2006).
David Beckham was a Chinese goalkeeper in
the 18th century (2006).
Miley Cyrus was killed in a car crash (2008).
Tony Blair worships Hitler (2006).
Vernon Kay killed by a yacht in
Greece (2008).
Alan Titchmarsh published a new version of
the Kama Sutra (2008)
Borat is the president of Kazakhstan (2007).
Activity 1 - True or False?
True or False?
True or False?
Critically assess what you have found!Who put the information there (who owns the site)?
Why did they create the site?
What is the level of the information?
Where is there information from (is it UK based)?
When was the site last updated?
How does it compare to other sources of information on the topic?
Check the:
‘URL’ address (.co, .com, .ac, .org, .gov)
The ‘About Us’ and ‘Contact Us’ section
Activity 2Critically assess the following website on Martin
Luther King, Jr.
Link
Avoid Plagiarism! Plagiarism is taking the words, theories, creations or
ideas of another person and passing them off as your own.
It can be deliberate or unintentional. You must ensure you reference ALL material that comes from another
source.
Plagiarism is a serious issue that can result in failing an assignment or even failing the year.
All forms of plagiarism will be taken seriously - deliberate or not!
How to make the most of search engines?
Country Specific
You can limit your search to the UK by searching your subject:
Example ‘Human Rights: UK’ or ‘Health and Safety: UK’
General Searches
Try to think of different ways to find the same thing by altering the
wording or terminology. Example: ‘technology and social
change’ or ‘impact of technology on society.
Quotation Marks, Question Marks & Dates
Try using “ “, ? or a specific date to help narrow down your
search. Example: “Southampton City College
ActivityGiven what you’ve just been told, can you
evaluate whether this information is reliable, objective and valid?
Research Skills Activity
Things to remember when researching1. Make sure you understand what is required from you
2. Use a range of sources to ensure you get the full picture
and an in depth understanding of your topic.
3. As you go along ask yourself
1. Does this answer the question?
2. Is this source reliable?
3. Do I have a balance of opinions?
4. Make sure you keep a note (in full) of each resource you
have looked at and used for your bibliography.