Beyond the Classroom: Creating eLearning Objects for the Advancement of Information Literacy Instruction

Abstract

In the midst of rapid technological change and modern information overload, information literacy has become a critical skillset for the 21st century citizen. Information literacy helps students build a foundation for lifelong learning by equipping them with skills needed to seek, evaluate, and utilize information effectively. Therefore, supporting information literacy across the curriculum has become a key priority within academic libraries. However, librarians face numerous challenges surrounding information literacy instruction, particularly with regards to time, resources, and student/faculty receptivity. In light of these factors, eLearning interventions are gaining popularity as an effective method for information literacy instruction both within and outside of the classroom. In this paper, we highlight two sample eLearning objects created for teaching undergraduate psychology students at the University of Toronto Scarborough how to search the PsycINFO database: Guide-on-the-Side tutorials and screencasts. Best practices will be discussed, as well as takeaway application strategies for other organizational contexts.