Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Abstract
In its simplest form, information literacy is defined as the ability to recognize a need for
information and from there on, one is able to locate, retrieve, evaluate and use the procured information effectively. The acquisition of information literacy skills is deemed by many as a necessity for the information age and it is termed by many as lifelong learning skills. The main objectives of the study is to promote information literacy skills among the undergraduate students of Ashesi University College; to find out whether students can use Boolean operators; to explore students ability to locate information independently; and to make recommendations to the university authority as to how information literacy skills could be promoted in among students. Copies of a questionnaire were distributed to 200 students out of a total student population of 450. Out of this number, 120 of them responded. The study revealed that most of the students’ level of information literacy is low based on the fact that they have problems in using the Boolean Operators OR, AND, andNOT. They also have a problem of using information sources and finally they use the internet without evaluating the authenticity of the website. Based on the findings, and other conclusions, recommendations are made to the authorities of Ashesi University College on how best to promote and integrate information literacy programme into the curriculum of the University.