There are several misconceptions about what is information literacy, one of which is, been able to read and write well or possesses academic prowess; another one is, been knowledgeable about information technology. Coupled with the aforementioned is the myriad of information available in all shape and format and varying degree of accuracy and relevance on, personal development, academics, technology, work-life balance, family life, religions, business, and the list goes on and on. Information literacy helps us to identify a needs gap and be able to sift through this myriad of information in a responsible, effective and efficient manner, in order to best fill that needs gap. Botham et al defined information literacy as “the ability or set of abilities to know when information is needed, to be able to evaluate the information and use information that has been found” (11).
Another definition by Horton states that “information literacy means the set of skills, attitudes and knowledge necessary to know when information is needed to help solve a problem or make a decision, how to articulate that …show more content…
Students must be taught the skills of observing laws, regulations and institution policies related to the access and use of information. They also need to be taught the various formats for citing and giving credits for resources in order to avoid plagiarism. Plagiarism is a common violation among students whether through innocence or blatant disregard for the rules governing the use of other persons’ work; whatever the reason students need to be made aware of these violation and possible sanctions. Sanctions for plagiarism vary from minor to severe punishment; students can be dismissed from universities depending on the severity of plagiarism. Scott states that “plagiarism is claiming someone else’s ideas as your own. It is a lie told to the audience by your work’
Another definition by Horton states that “information literacy means the set of skills, attitudes and knowledge necessary to know when information is needed to help solve a problem or make a decision, how to articulate that …show more content…
Students must be taught the skills of observing laws, regulations and institution policies related to the access and use of information. They also need to be taught the various formats for citing and giving credits for resources in order to avoid plagiarism. Plagiarism is a common violation among students whether through innocence or blatant disregard for the rules governing the use of other persons’ work; whatever the reason students need to be made aware of these violation and possible sanctions. Sanctions for plagiarism vary from minor to severe punishment; students can be dismissed from universities depending on the severity of plagiarism. Scott states that “plagiarism is claiming someone else’s ideas as your own. It is a lie told to the audience by your work’