Information literacy assessment: a case study at Miami University

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this case study, created by a faculty learning community (FLC) on research fluency, is to investigate students' information literacy practices at Miami University, including information search process, preparation, differences in students' information literacy skill levels, and how well they transfer these skills outside coursework.

Design/methodology/approach

Faculty and librarians designed a survey of about 60 questions, which were given to 300 students in faculty's classes by librarian FLC members.

Findings

FLC members discovered where perceptions among professors, librarians, and students were similar, and where they differed.

Practical implications

Influenced by the findings, participating faculty made changes to the course plans and included additional assignments to make the process of research more explicit.

Originality/value

While there are similar studies about information literacy, the Miami University study is distinct in that it reports on collaboration with faculty and makes use of their perceptions of students.

Citation

Resnis, E., Gibson, K., Hartsell‐Gundy, A. and Misco, M. (2010), "Information literacy assessment: a case study at Miami University", New Library World, Vol. 111 No. 7/8, pp. 287-301. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074801011059920