LIBRARY
Framework for Information Literacy: Searching as Strategic Exploration
Compiled by the FLA Academic Instruction & Information Literacy Member Group
SEARCHING AS STRATEGIC EXPLORATION: Knowledge Practices and Sample Lesson Plans
Searching for information is often nonlinear and iterative, requiring the evaluation of a range of information sources and the mental flexibility to pursue alternate avenues as new understanding develops.
Determine the initial scope of the task required to meet their information needs;
Identify interested parties, such as scholars, organizations, governments, and industries, who might produce information about a topic and then determine how to access that information
Utilize divergent (e.g., brainstorming) and convergent (e.g., selecting the best source) thinking when searching
Match information needs and search strategies to appropriate search tools;
Design and refine needs and search strategies as necessary, based on search results
Understand how information systems (i.e., collections of recorded information) are organized in order to access relevant information
Use different types of searching language (e.g., controlled vocabulary, keywords, natural language) appropriately
- Jacalyn BryanSaint Leo University