SUNY Core Competencies in Information Literacy

The SUNY Council of Library Directors has developed the following list of nine competencies for information literacy:

Competency 1: To recognize the need for information.

Indicators

• Recognizes that accurate and comprehensive information is the basis for intelligent decision making.
• Frames appropriate questions based on information needs.
• Defines a manageable focus and timeline.

Competency 2: To access information from appropriate sources.

Indicators

• Understands and can use the variety of information sources available, including: Internet, CD-ROM interfaces, electronic library catalogs, microformats and print materials.
• Identifies a variety of potential sources of information.
• Can select those sources that are appropriate to a given need.
• Develops efficient and effective search strategies.
• Consults experts for assistance/guidance when needed.
• Understands standard systems of information organization.
• Identifies and retrieves information relevant to the question/need.

Competency 3: To develop skills in using information technologies.

Indicators

• Can access the campus information systems and understands how to access information networks.
• Can access the Internet, and can navigate the information highway to locate information appropriate to the need.
• Uses group communication methods, electronic mail, discussion groups for information gathering, feedback, and interaction.
• Can effectively expand or narrow a search as needed.
• Understands and can use word processing, spreadsheets, databases and computer file management.
• Can manipulate and transfer electronic information.

Competency 4: To critically analyze and evaluate information.

Indicators

• Filters large amounts of information.
• Determines accuracy, relevance, and comprehensiveness of information.
• Assesses the reliability and accuracy of information.
• Distinguishes among facts, points of view, and opinion.
• Thinks critically about the content of information.
• Understands the process of knowledge generation and publication patterns in appropriate disciplines/fields.

Competency 5: To organize and process information.

Indicators

• Synthesizes information from a variety of sources.
• Integrates new information into one's own knowledge base.
• Makes inferences, connections, and draws conclusions.
• Organizes information for practical application.

Competency 6: To apply information for effective and creative decision making.

Indicators

• Applies information in critical thinking and problem solving.
• Creates new information or knowledge through synthesis.
• Produces quality products appropriate to specific needs.

Competency 7: To generate and effectively communicate information and knowledge.

Indicators

• Produces and communicates information in effective and appropriate formats.
• Disseminates information in appropriate modes.
• Evaluates the effectiveness/success of products developed and presented.

Competency 8: To understand and respect the ethical, legal, and socio-political aspects of information and its technologies.

Indicators

• Respects the principles of equitable access to information.
• Respects intellectual property rights.
• Applies principles of academic honesty in use of information.
• Acknowledges works of others through accurate citations and references.

Competency 9: To develop attitudinal objectives which lead to appreciation of lifelong learning.

Indicators

• Understands that information searching requires time, diligence, and practice, and that skills are learned over time.
• Increases self confidence with practice and experience in information seeking.
• Recognizes that the information search process is evolutionary and changes during the course of investigation.
• Knows that careful and attentive scrutiny of information tools and resources is essential to success.
• Appreciates that information literacy requires an ongoing involvement with learning and information technologies so that independent lifelong learning is possible.

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