Information literacy instruction in Ontario middle grade classrooms

Colucci, Abigail (2020) Information literacy instruction in Ontario middle grade classrooms. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This research study focused on the integration of information literacy instruction within a middle grade (grades 5-8) school setting based on the analysis and discussion of data gleaned from surveyed information professionals, research literature, and government, school, or library association guidelines. Although there is an abundance of research literature on the necessity of information literacy in a school setting, research and case studies often revolve around US schools and the common core curriculum and do not provide recommendations on the best practices of information literacy instruction based on Ontario or Canadian schools. First, this research examined a variety of literature focusing on information literacy within middle-grade classrooms, specifically looking at the suggestions of the current trends and future needs of information literacy instruction within an Ontario middle school environment (grades 5-8). Second, it analyzed data collected from a questionnaire of information professional’s current practices for information literacy instruction, then examined the pros and cons of each institution’s digital and information literacy curriculum. Last, it reviewed the recommendations and best practices of individual respondents. The study found that, while librarians felt that most administration and other educators recognized the importance of information literacy, the subject was often glossed over and librarians were not used for their expertise. To better implement information literacy, librarians saw the need for better support from administration, improved collaboration between librarians and teachers, and encouraged board-wide policies promoting information literacy as an essential element within the curriculum.

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