Information Literacy in the Workplace
Caitlin Munn; Josh Seeland; KC Bateman; Chris Budiwski; Susan Hunt; Garry Jones; and Kirk Joyce
Regardless of what industry or workplace you enter, information literacy skills will be crucial. Information literacy enables employees to effectively access, evaluate, and use information to perform their job duties. Here are some reasons why information literacy matters in the workplace:
-
Improving productivity: Information literacy allows employees to quickly and effectively find the information they need to complete their work, reducing the time and effort required to complete tasks.
- Making better decisions: In the workplace, decisions are often made based on data and information. By having strong information literacy skills, employees can critically evaluate and analyze this information, leading to better decision-making.
- Staying up-to-date: In today’s rapidly changing business environment, staying up-to-date on the latest trends and developments is essential. Information literacy enables employees to access and evaluate current and relevant information, helping them stay ahead of the curve.
- Promoting innovation: By having access to a wide range of information sources, employees can identify new opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Collaborating effectively: Effective collaboration requires effective communication and the ability to share and evaluate information. Information literacy skills enable employees to communicate effectively and collaborate with their colleagues, leading to better teamwork and outcomes.
Explore below some specific ways information literacy is used in industries and workplaces.
Overall, information literacy is essential in the workplace as it enables employees to access and use information effectively, make better decisions, stay up-to-date, promote innovation, and collaborate effectively with their colleagues.
Reflection: Sources of Information
So far, we have examined what information literacy is and why it matters to you as a college student and future professional. Now, let’s take some to explore the information literacy skills we’ve identified:
- Find or access information
- Evaluate information
- Use information
Get started with a short reflection. Set a timer for 2 minutes and brainstorm:
- Where do you go when you need information on a topic?
- What digital and non-digital sources of information do you use?
- Have you ever visited a Library or used online Library services to access information?
