Exploration of information literacy skills status and impacts on the quality of life of artisans in Lagos, Nigeria

2015 ◽  
Vol 116 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 578-587 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ngozi Blessing Ukachi
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Skills Acquisition ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Literacy Skills ◽  
The Government

Purpose – The purpose of the study is to establish the information literacy skills status, medium for the acquisition of the skills and the impacts on the quality of life of artisans in Lagos, Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach – Multi-stage sampling technique was adopted in selecting the sample. First, the purposive sampling technique was adopted in selecting five categories of artisans specialised in creative works such as: hat making, knitting of clothes, fashion designing/tailoring, hair dressing and shoe making. Second, the proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used in selecting five artisans, each representing a particular category from the 20 local government areas that make up Lagos State. Hence, the sample size is 100. The instruments for data collection were questionnaire and oral interview. The oral interview was meant to complement the questionnaire, as the researcher observed that some of the artisans communicate better in oral discussions than in written ones. The researcher personally administered the instruments. The oral interview was guided by the interview schedule constructed by the researcher based on the research questions. The questionnaire collection period lasted three weeks. Data collected were analysed using simple percentages and frequency count and presented in tables and figures. Findings – The outcome of the study revealed that the artisans’ level of information literacy skills increased following their exploration of technological gadgets such as android and smart-phones which the study had established to be the main means through which they acquire their information literacy skills. Other sources such as the library and training organised by the state government have not benefited them. The result established that the increase in their information literacy skills status has enhanced their quality of life. Practical implications – An improvement in the information literacy skills status of artisans could positively impact their quality of life. Originality/value – An exploration of the information literacy skills status, medium for the acquisition of the skills and the impacts on the quality of life of artisans in Lagos has not been carried out before now. This study revealed the status as well as the most accessible and appealing medium of information literacy skills acquisition by the artisans. This will help the government and public library management with the knowledge of the information literacy skills’ needs including, formats and media most suitable for this category of people.

scholarly journals Strategi pengembangan Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah (UMKM) di Kota Malang melalui literasi informasi

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 151
Author(s):  
Muhammad Shobaruddin
Keyword(s):  
Human Resources ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Development Strategies ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Third Parties ◽  
Government Support ◽  
Problem Identification ◽  
Information Literacy Skills ◽  
The Government

This study examined Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) development strategies through information literacy. Information literacy can be interpreted as expertise in effectively accessing and evaluating information to solve problems and make decisions. This study aimed to improve the quality of human resources driving MSMEs in Malang through information literacy. Descriptive qualitative methods were used to describe the phenomenon as a whole. Data were collected through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) to determine the pattern of problem identification, searching and implementing solutions, and applying information literacy to the UMKM process in Malang City. The FCD results were analyzed by identifying problems, solutions that were implemented, and information literacy application. The next step was to formulate the stages of the MSME development strategy. MSMEs in Malang City faced internal (capital, human resources, and infrastructure) and external (government support, community roles, and consumer response) constraints. The solutions implemented to overcome these obstacles have not thoroughly utilized information literacy skills, so the problem recurs. MSME development strategies that can be applied with third parties' assistance are problem identification, reflection on applied solutions, and development of information literacy skills (the ability to access information, sort and select, and understand and implement it). Based on these findings, the role of third parties, such as the government and the research team, is quite important for implementing strategies and improving the quality of MSME Human Resources.

Lessons learned from designing flipped lessons for fourth grade students: implications for school librarians

2016 ◽  
Vol 33 (8) ◽  
pp. 19-23 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniella Smith
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Student Perceptions ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Technology Implementation ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Flipped Learning ◽  
School Librarians ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Literacy Skills

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine student perceptions of flipped learning lessons designed to teach information literacy skills. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-method design was implemented using a paper-based survey and an online focus group. The survey asked questions about the participants’ perceptions of the flipped lessons. The focus group was used to clarify the participants’ responses to the survey questions. Findings A majority of the students enjoyed completing the lessons. Responses also indicated that a majority of the students felt that the lessons helped them prepare for class. However, issues with computers and internet connectivity at home resulted in some of the students completing the lessons before or after school. Research limitations/implications This study was limited to a class of 21 students enrolled in a public school in North Texas. Originality/value There is limited research supporting the value of flipped learning in relation to the technology implementation role of school librarians. This study provides insights into how school librarians can develop flipped learning lessons in collaboration with classroom teachers to improve the information literacy skills of students.

Examining digital information literacy as a determinant of women's online shopping behavior

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Munazza Mahmood ◽  
Syeda Hina Batool ◽  
Muhammad Rafiq ◽  
Muhammad Safdar
Keyword(s):  
Information Literacy ◽  
Online Shopping ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Shopping Behavior ◽  
Digital Information ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Literacy Skills ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Online Shopping Behavior

PurposeThe present study aims to examine the current digital information literacy (DIL) skills of female online shoppers in Lahore city of Pakistan. Data were gathered from a purposive sampling of women, aged between 20–50 years who were buying products online, not from the traditional retail stores. Out of 309 received questionnaires, 269 responses were useable and were utilized for data analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to deduce inferences.Design/methodology/approachQuantitative research approach was employed for this study, and a survey was conducted to collect the data from the study's respondents. For data analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics were used.FindingsResults revealed that the digital information literacy skills of women were good to a moderate level. However, they were not confident in applying advanced searching options. In accordance with what was hypothesized in a directional hypothesis, DIL was found to be a strong predictor of online shopping behavior of women, consequently highlighting the importance of such competencies in modern life. Other findings illustrate that participating women rarely engaged in online shopping and felt hesitation in using credit/debit card for online transactions.Research limitations/implicationsThese observations highlight the important role of information professionals in creating digital literacy among different population groups, specifically women, by planning digital information instruction through courses, workshops and trainings. This could eventually be possible with the dynamic role of librarians or information professionals in the society.Originality/valueThe present study adopts the unique approach of measuring online shopping behavior of female shoppers in connection with their digital information literacy skills.

A call for libraries to go green

2012 ◽  
Vol 30 (3) ◽  
pp. 428-435 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ina Fourie
Keyword(s):  
Information Literacy ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Information Need ◽  
Full Spectrum ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Behaviour ◽  
Environmental Friendly ◽  
Making A Difference ◽  
Information Literacy Skills

PurposeWhen confronted with a problem where the solution is not clear or obvious, a first step would be to search for more information, trying to make sense of the problem. The intention of this contribution is to make sense of the call for “libraries to go green”, while at the same time to show the potential of explicitly considering information behaviour and the need to draw on the full spectrum of information literacy skills (e.g. recognising and expressing an information need, seeking, using, and disseminating information) to stimulate librarians' interest and confidence in taking on the challenge of going green and making a difference.Design/methodology/approachThe column will be written against the background of research from information literacy, information behaviour, and research on sustainable and environmental friendly library and information (LIS) services.FindingsAlthough rather a limited number, publications on “going green” and the “paperless” library/society address a variety of issues ranging from planning “green” library buildings, to assessing the experiences of LIS professionals in developing sustainable “green libraries”, to information behaviour in using e‐books in academic contexts. Considering the finding and use of information on “going green”, from an information behaviour perspective, helps to bring many issues to consider in furthering research on “going green” to the front.Originality/valueAlthough much has been published about information behaviour and information literacy, and although attempts of publishing on various issues of “green” libraries are noted, the author is not aware of other work aligning these issues.

Evaluating the Quality of an Online Course in Information Literacy Applied to Engineering Students

2021 ◽  
pp. 79-117
Author(s):  
Teresa Oliveira Ramos ◽  
Carla Morais ◽  
Cristina Ribeiro
Keyword(s):  
Information Literacy ◽  
Engineering Students ◽  
Positive Impact ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Independent Learning ◽  
Online Course ◽  
Information Literacy Skills ◽  
Online Assignments

An academic library created an online course in information literacy skills in 2007 for engineering students. This chapter reports the evaluation of the course's effectiveness in developing those skills. In the academic year 2015/2016, a case study with a mixed-methods approach was applied to 5th-year students (N=91) enrolled in a course unit for Master Dissertation's preparation in the informatics and computing engineering programme. Students showed high confidence in their information literacy skills. Online assignments' performance was good, but activities revealed quality issues. Performance in the course unit's assignments reveals a poor application of acquired skills. But satisfaction is high: students value independent learning and online access to resources and content. Despite evidence of some positive impact, the course lacks effectiveness due to issues in the course unit's assignments. Needed improvements include a better realignment with students' needs and a redesign with an instructional model to assure the promotion of students' success.

‘Read it, now what? Engaging students with information literacy’

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Karen Foord
Keyword(s):  
Student Engagement ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Education Institution ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Pass Rate ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Health And Social Care ◽  
Information Professional ◽  
Information Literacy Skills ◽  
The Relationship

PurposeThe purpose of this action research study was to explore whether enabling work-based students to identify their information literacy (IL) needs and participate in activity design would increase their IL and enhance their academic performance.Design/methodology/approachInitially students reflected on their own knowledge, skills and engagement with IL. Next, they identified aspects of IL that challenged them. Students worked in small groups to identify tasks and activities to enhance their skills. They completed practical IL tasks during a taught session. A scoring rubric assessed student engagement with IL. Concurrently a qualitative questionnaire was developed and used to explore the student experience of the intervention.FindingsThe study found that students did engage with information literacy and there was an improvement in the pass rate from previous cohorts. The qualitative analysis demonstrated that students felt that the interaction had benefitted their engagement with IL and their learning and understanding as a result.Research limitations/implicationsThis study was a small study at one higher education institution and cannot therefore be considered generalizable. It does nevertheless provide valuable insights in terms of student engagement with IL.Practical implicationsThis study influenced the delivery of the subsequent modules. It has the potential to influence the delivery of information literacy skills on health and social care apprenticeships.Originality/valueThis paper adds to the literature exploring the relationship between students and information literacy. Enhancing the discourse from the instructor perspective rather than that of the information professional.

Reliability and validity of self-efficacy scales assessing students’ information literacy skills

2017 ◽  
Vol 35 (5) ◽  
pp. 1035-1051 ◽  
Author(s):  
Khalid Mahmood
Keyword(s):  
Information Literacy ◽  
Self Efficacy ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Reliability And Validity ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Psychometric Characteristics ◽  
Eligibility Criteria ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Literacy Skills ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper systematically reviews the evidence of reliability and validity of scales available in studies that reported surveys of students to assess their perceived self-efficacy of information literacy (IL) skills. Design/methodology/approach Search in two subject and two general databases and scanning of titles, abstracts and full texts of documents have been carried out in this paper. Findings In total, 45 studies met the eligibility criteria. A large number of studies did not report any psychometric characteristics of data collection instruments they used. The selected studies provided information on 22 scales. The instruments were heterogeneous in number of items and type of scale options. The most used reliability measure was internal consistency (with high values of Cronbach’s alpha), and the most used validity was face/content validity by experts. Practical implications The culture of using good-quality scales needs to be promoted by IL practitioners, authors and journal editors. Originality/value This paper is the first review of its kind, which is useful for IL stakeholders.

scholarly journals Adapting and Normalizing the 6th Grade Version of the Tool for Real-Time Assessment of Information Literacy Skills (TRAILS) Among the Iranian 6th Grade StudentsTo Information Management and Beyond

2016 ◽  
Vol 17 ◽  
pp. 137-145
Author(s):  
Fatima Baji ◽  
Zahed Bigdeli
Keyword(s):  
Real Time ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Assessment Tool ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
School Curriculum ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
School Students ◽  
Information Literacy Skills ◽  
K 12 ◽  
Time Assessment

Given the lack of a standardized and normalized assessment tool for measuring Iranian primary school students' levels of IL, this study adapted and modified the Tool for Real-time Assessment of Information Literacy Skills to evaluate the IL skills of a group of the 6th grade students. In this research, descriptive research design was used and the data were collected through a survey. A sample of 701 female and male students in the 6th grade from Ahwaz city was selected. Stratified random sampling technique was used to draw/choose representative sample. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, median, interquartile deviation, scores of percentile ranks, and z, Zn, T scores were used to specify the IL skills test norms. According to the results, the mean score of female students in IL skills assessment was 11.56, while in males was 9.04. This demonstrates that the Iranian 6th grade students have weakness in IL skills; this issue is due to the lack of IL instruction in school curriculum and despite the adoption of various documents to improve the education system in Iran in recent years. Findings of this research provide insights towards the IL assessment tool development of k-12 students in Iran and establish a baseline for introducing TRAILS testing in k-12 setting in Iran.

An assessment of academic library services: international and domestic students perspectives

2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (8/9) ◽  
pp. 631-653
Author(s):  
Sanaz Soltani ◽  
Shahrokh Nikou
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
International Students ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Domestic Students ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Literacy Skills

PurposeInformation literacy is defined as discrete abilities that a person requires to have in order to find, assess, use and share information. As information literacy skills play a prominent role in the students' academic achievement, students and in particular international students coming to continue their postgraduate studies in other countries may face problems in finding and using library services. The purpose of this paper is to explore and investigate the information literacy skills, challenges and needs of international and domestic students at the Finnish universities.Design/methodology/approachThis paper uses a mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected through an online survey (82 respondents) and qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 10 international and 10 domestic students.FindingsAcademic library services are used but in different ways. The findings indicate that international students have a relatively low level of information literacy skills compared to domestic students and faces various challenges, especially in the beginning of their studies.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was exploratory, and data were collected from limited number of Finnish universities and may not be representative of the underlying population.Practical implicationsAcademic libraries should provide effective courses on research methods and library services to the international students while keeping in mind the international students language and cultural barriers.Originality/valueThis is one of the first attempts in information literacy research that focusses on international and domestic students' information literacy skills at the higher education environment. As such, the results provided in this paper can help librarians and decision-makers at the higher education environments to plan better and become more efficient in delivering information services meeting students' information needs and expectations.

Assessment of information literacy skills and information-seeking behavior of medical students in the age of technology: a study of Pakistan

2021 ◽  
Vol 49 (1) ◽  
pp. 84-94
Author(s):  
Mohammad Sohail Haider ◽  
Chen Ya
Keyword(s):  
Medical Students ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Information Seeking ◽  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Medical College ◽  
Seeking Behavior ◽  
Information Literacy Skills ◽  
Library Staff

Purpose Information literacy skills (ILSs) and information-seeking behavior (ISB) is a widespread topic that needs modern technologies to improve the technical skills of the students. The purpose of this study is to assess the usage of library resources for medical college students. To explore and understand the student’s level of satisfaction, learning and seeking behavior by efficient information retrieval systems. Design/methodology/approach The study is based on a quantitative research method and data was collected from the undergraduate students of medical colleges Islamabad Pakistan. The data were analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25 using Pearson correlation statistical test to identify the level of proficiency of correlation of variables and testing of the proposed hypothesis. Findings The finding of the study shows that the medical students can enhance their IT skills to seek the information in this technology era. The medical institutional administration can develop the education development policy, traditional health education policy, funds allocating policy, health information literacy and collaborate with library staff for enhancing the services and to meet the information need of medical students. Practical implications The conclusion of this study is very helpful to reduce the barriers between the students and the library staff. The findings of the study are also beneficial for the administration to improve and develop the strategies for enhancing the ILSs of medical students to achieve medical educational information in the age of technology. Therefore, all significant structures want to improve and to develop the environment of information seeking by medical students to achieve medical educational information. Social implications Medical college library administrative management must be design useful a durable policy to come up with the technology development for digital literacy. The study reduces the barriers between the students and the library staff. Originality/value The study is based on quantitative research method to find out ISB of medical students.

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