Information Competency Standards for Engineering
Standard One
The information-competent student determines the nature and extent of the information needed.
This competency is demonstrated by the ability to define and articulate the information need, and to prioritize multiple sources of information based on a broad understanding of information sources.
Standard Two
The information-competent student acquires needed information effectively and efficiently.
This competency is demonstrated by the ability to locate and retrieve primary and secondary information as appropriate, utilizing a variety of search strategies and available library services.
Standard Three
The information-competent student critically evaluates the procured information and its sources, and as a result, decides whether or not to modify the initial query and/or seek additional sources and whether to develop a new research process.
This competency is demonstrated by the ability to accurately categorize information found, critically evaluate the information, synthesize it with her/his existing knowledge-base to construct new knowledge, and seek additional information as needed.
Standard Four
The information-competent student understands the economic, ethical, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information and its technologies and either as an individual or as a member of a group, uses information effectively, ethically, and legally to accomplish a specific purpose.
This competency is demonstrated by the ability to use information legally, understand fair-use guidelines, follow copyright laws, properly attribute sources, and assess one’s own information sources for their adherence to these same principles.
Standard Five
The information-competent student understands that information competency is an ongoing process and an important component of lifelong learning and recognizes the need to keep current regarding new developments in his or her field.
This competency is demonstrated by information behaviors and attitudes that reflect the value of ongoing assimilation, management, and preservation of knowledge, and use of emerging methods and tools for keeping current in a field.
Standard Six
The information-competent student identifies sources of information needed to acquire information about established companies in a specific area, and identifies sources of knowledge and skills for entrepreneurial endeavors.
This competency is demonstrated by the ability to use business, trade, and patent search tools to gather competitive intelligence and understand engineering research and development in a broader strategic and societal context.
Source: American Society for Engineering Education - Engineering Libraries Division, 2013
"Information literacy is a set of abilities requiring individuals to recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information." - American Library Association
Selected Sources on Information Literacy:
Information Literacy Standards for Science and Engineering/Technology - American Library Association, Association of College Research Libraries
Information Literacy Standards for Higher Education - American Library Association
Criteria for Accrediting Engineering Programs 2017-2018 - ABET
Welcome to the InfoLit Modules! The materials on these pages have been designed to give you a foundation in information literacy and critical thinking. Topics have been divided among six modules; each includes videos, tutorials, and quizzes.