What is the purpose of information literacy instruction?

The purpose of information literacy instruction is to equip students with the necessary skills to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively. This foundational competency is critical in today's information-rich environment, where individuals are often faced with an overwhelming amount of data from various sources. By teaching students how to discern credible information, analyze sources for reliability and relevance, and apply their findings in a meaningful way, educators foster critical thinking and independent decision-making skills.

Such instruction also encourages lifelong learning, enabling students to navigate complex information contexts throughout their academic and professional lives. Through information literacy, students become more effective researchers and informed consumers of information, which empowers them to engage more deeply with content across disciplines.

In contrast, other options focus on narrow, less impactful goals that do not address the comprehensive skills needed for effective information use in today’s world. For instance, simply making students aware of library hours does not help them engage with information critically or effectively. Promoting the exclusive use of encyclopedias limits their exposure to a broader range of sources, which is essential for developing well-rounded information literacy. Likewise, developing a preference for print over digital media misses the goal of navigating both formats effectively, which is crucial in modern information practices.