The Editor's View

Information Literacy

Volume 4 / Issue 3 / Spring 2004

A love of reading is one of the best gifts that you can give your child. We hope that the “Connections” and “Consultant’s Corner” columns in this issue of DGL provide you with useful guidance in this area. However, keep in mind that literacy today goes well beyond the ability and desire to read.

In the 21st century it is essential that individuals develop skills in information literacy. The American Library Association defines information literacy as the ability to “recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use [it] effectively.” Many states are creating initiatives to ensure that students attain information literacy by the time they graduate from high school. This set of skills is essential for managing the massive amounts of information that we are bombarded with by television, newspapers, magazines, radio, and the Internet. It is crucial that children be able to sift through this information critically and use it appropriately. While the Internet offers an abundance of good information, it also contains much that is inaccurate and biased.

Encourage your children to use dependable sources and to approach their research with a healthy skepticism. Make sure that they consult a variety of sources; continue to visit your local library and use books, journals, magazines, newspapers, encyclopedias, and other print media.

Often the skills associated with information literacy are taken for granted. By promoting early awareness of how to obtain and use information properly, you will help your child become a competent lifelong learner.

—Kristen R. Stephens, PhD