Information literacy standards for information skills in social work curricula

Abstract

This study proposes information literacy standards to be met by social work curricula. The documentary review used as a point of departure included papers on the introduction of literacy in the curriculum to develop information skills; internationally defined information literacy standards; and the specific and general skills required for social work. The outcome of that review, a proposal for information literacy standards in social work curricula, was assessed by social workers and information scientists. As a result of these two stages of the study, five information literacy standards were defined: one, knowing what type of information is needed; two, accessing the information needed effectively, efficiently and ethically; three, assessing the information and sources, ethically and responsibly building new knowledge with the information selected; four, using and disseminating information effectively and ethically to a specific purpose; and five, keeping abreast of and networking with the information. Implementing those standards helps develop information skills while working toward a degree in social work. Coupled with other specific and general professional aptitudes, such skills help graduates address the issues with which they are confronted in social research and intervention.

Keywords

• information literacy; social work; higher education; curriculum evaluation; documentary information