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University of Washington

University of Washington Information School

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Information Literacy

  1. Research Areas
  2. Information Literacy
  3. Information Literacy

Developing independent, self-sufficient and smarter users and producers of information

Information is ubiquitous, but to use it effectively, you need to define what problem you want to solve, how best to find the information you need and what to do with the information once you find it. Many people, including students, working professionals, and those seeking employment, struggle to identify their requirements and then search for information that will solve their information problem.

The iSchool’s Mike Eisenberg co-authored the Big6 method for helping people of all ages become information literate which includes these elements: task definition, information seeking strategies, location and access, use, synthesis and evaluation. This process can be applied to a wide variety of situations to help information users be more efficient and generate better results.

Applicability

The iSchool’s expertise and research in information literacy can assist organizations in the following ways:

  • Developing more effective education resources for employees
  • Creating smart help-desk systems for customer service
  • Integrating inquiry tools on websites for better customer search outcomes
  • Providing personal information management tools and skills for employees
  • Integrating information literacy into the design of products/services to make them more effective
  • Meeting user needs by using technology wisely with limited budgets
  • Designing instructional strategies for information professionals
  • Developing strategies for effective management of ideas and information

Projects and Research

Project Information Literacy
A national study about early adults and their information-seeking behaviors and competencies, as well as challenges they face when conducting research in the digital age.

Applying the Big6 Methodology
Big6 information problem-solving model is applicable whenever people need and use information. The Big6 integrates information search and use skills along with technology tools in a systematic process to find, use, apply, and evaluate information for specific needs and tasks.

Creating Teaching Opportunities
Helping an organization build a network of partners and affiliates who would benefit from instruction or institutional learning.

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News

Ndeye Diop shows her poster to a visitor

22 Informatics students show their work at research symposium

Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Twenty-two Informatics students showcased their research at the 2025 Undergraduate Research Symposium. Held on May 16, the event – titled “Take Flight!” -- featured five poster sessions, three oral presentation...
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Kathryn Perry Bolin

MLIS Capstone showcases a lesser-known part of U.S. history

Friday, May 30, 2025
The words “concentration camp” bring about disturbing images and evoke an emotional response. When people think of concentration camps, their minds are likely to turn to the Nazi extermination camps of World War II. However, many...
Read more

Events

Jun 6
 
12:00-1:00PM

MLIS Last Chance Q&A

Zoom / Online
Jun 7
 
12:00-2:30PM

Information School Convocation Ceremony

Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion
Jun 10
 
5:00-6:00PM

Shaping the Future with an MS in Information Management: Alumni Panel & Insights

Virtual / Zoom
Jun 10
 
7:00-7:45PM

iSchool Read-Alongs Series: June

Online
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Box 352840 - Mary Gates Hall, Ste. 370
Seattle, WA 98195-2840
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