Foundations  

Information Literacy  

Definition  

The ability to access and use information ethically, legally, and responsibly; determine the extent of information needed; access the needed information; evaluate information and sources critically; and use information to accomplish a specific purpose. 

Learning Outcomes  

• Understand the concept of academic integrity and practices to avoid plagiarism.  
• Cite, quote, and paraphrase sources correctly.  

 2. Determine the extent of information needed:   

•  Define key concepts within a research statement.  
•  Identify types of information sources.  

 3. Access the needed information:   

•  Find information using a variety of search strategies.  
•  Consult multiple sources when gathering information.  
•  Develop awareness of resources available at Viterbo.  

 4. Evaluate information and sources critically:   

•  Recognize and explain bias, authority, and reliability of sources.  
•  Identify and question assumptions in compiled research.  

5. Use information to accomplish a specific purpose:   

•  Organize and communicate information from sources to meet the purpose of the assignment. 
 

Ways to fulfill competencies  

This skill will be developed in English 103, 104, 105, or 195 for incoming freshmen. All transfer students must take a one-credit information literacy course, UNST-301. (Note: this single credit may be also included in an existing course.)  

These courses have been granted provisional status as IL Foundations courses:  

INFO 150 (IL status deleted 3.2012), INST 395, MUSC 328 (IL status deleted 3.2012), NURS 340, OMGT 302, UNST 295* (Must be taken at VU, not transferred, AP, CLEP.)  

 Information Literacy test-out procedure