Investigates benefits and applicability of various investigative methods
Investigates the scope, content, and organization of information retrieval systems (Information retrieval systems allow users to access specific documents from large collections, such as electronic databases)
Selects efficient and effective approaches for accessing the information needed from the investigative method or information retrieval system (e.g., browsing, simple search, advanced search, keyword search, subject search, full-text search, using a subject directory)
Constructs and implements effectively-designed search strategies.
Develops a research plan appropriate to the investigative method
Identifies keywords, synonyms and related terms for the information needed
Constructs a search strategy using appropriate commands for the information retrieval system selected (e.g., Boolean operators, truncation, and proximity for search engines; internal organizers such as indexes and tables of content for books)
Implements the search strategy in various information retrieval systems using different user interfaces and search engines, with different command languages, protocols, and search parameters
Retrieves information online or in person using a variety of methods.
Uses various search systems to retrieve information in a variety of formats
Uses various classification schemes and other systems (e.g., Dewey Decimal call number system or indexes) to locate information resources within the library or to identify specific sites for physical exploration
Uses online or in person services available at the institution to retrieve information needed (e.g., interlibrary loan, reserves, asks the library staff for assistance)
Uses surveys, letters, interviews, and other forms of inquiry to retrieve primary information
Refines the search strategy if necessary.
Assesses the quantity, quality, and relevance of the search results to determine whether alternative information retrieval systems or investigative methods should be utilized
Identifies gaps in the information retrieved and determines if the search strategy should be revised
Repeats the search using the revised strategy as necessary
Extracts, records, and manages the information and its sources.
Selects among various technologies the most appropriate one for the task of extracting the needed information (e.g., copy/paste software functions, photocopier, scanner, audio/visual equipment, or exploratory instruments)
Creates a system or uses an existing system for organizing the information
Differentiates between the types of sources cited and understands the elements and correct syntax of a citation for a wide range of resources
The above performance indicators are used and modified with permission (10/07/2005) from the Association of College and Research Libraries. They are based on the document "Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education." ACRL is a division of the
American Library Association. The original document is available: http://www.ala.org/ala/acrl/acrlstandards/informationliteracycompetency.htm.
