Introduction to Knovel and Information Literacy

Here at Notre Dame the school is back in session and the Engineering Library is busy everyday. The library gets lots of use in between classes and in the afternoons. Today we are having an Introduction to Knovel webinar for students, faculty, and staff at the new engineering building (Stinson Remick).

Join Us for an Introduction to Knovel on January 26, 2012!
Title: University of Notre Dame Engineering Library - Introduction to Knovel
Date:     Thursday, January 26, 2012
Time:    1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Stinson Remmick Room 109
Open to all ND engineering faculty, staff, and students

I've created a subject guide for first year engineering students to help them find resources for their end of semester projects.
I'm also working with fellow librarians to put together an information literacy toolkit for faculty. This semester we have 3 goals for engineering students:

1. Students know the Engineering Library Website.
2. Students know about and use 3  library resources in their area of study.
3. Students properly use citations  in their papers, presentations, and research. 

Here are the basics of information literacy that we want to encourage faculty to share and teach students.

 

Define and determine the extent of information needed by asking questions

Access the needed information effectively and efficiently 

Synthesis

Incorporate selected information into one’s knowledge base 

Use information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose

Understand the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information, and access and use information ethically and legally 

Evaluate information and its sources critically 

•ACRL Information Literacy Competency  Standards for Higher Education

http://www.ala.org/acrl/standards/informationliteracycompetency (accessed January  2012). 

Teaching students these basic skills will help them in their everyday lives and their academic life, but teaching also includes a practical application of knowing what resources and tools are there to use. Within every subject area there are special databases and electronic resources to help students and faculty do research. Understanding and knowledge about library materials and resources can help students produce quality work and innovative solutions.