Quiz for undergradutes

How would you rate your own information seeking abilities? Take this short quiz to discover some of the most common misconceptions about searching for information online and learn a few quick tips on how to improve your information literacy skills.

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"The first results on Google are always the most trustworthy and valuable."

False!

Whilst Google is a fantastic source for seeking information, it is vital that you remain critical of the resources you discover via Google. Many students will use and reference a source in their assignment regardless of whether it is reputable (Zoellner, 2016, p. 245)., but it is important you remain critical of the sources you find online. Critically analysing the resources you discover via internet search engines is vital in ensuring high quality assignments.

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Reference:

Zoellner, K. (2017). Exploring undergraduate student experiences with information literacy. Performance Measurement and Metrics, 17(3), 241-251. https://doi.org/10.1108/PMM-07-2016-0032

"All resources found on the web are reputable and contain valuable, scholarly information."

False!

Many web resources are not peer reviewed, containing information that may be questionable or simply inaccurate (Gurney & Wilkes, 2009, p. 160). Make sure you scrutinise sources with a critical eye and if in doubt, turn to your university's library catalogue and databases. These contain peer-reviewed and scholarly resources suitable for tertiary level assignments. Make sure you analyse these critically too to ensure your references are relevant to your topic and are reputable!

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Reference:
Gurney, L. J & Wilkes, J. (2009). Perceptions and Applications of Information Literacy by First Year Applied Science Students. Australian Academic & Research Libraries, 40(3), 159-171.

doi:10.1080/00048623.2009.10721402

"Information needs and searching methods often differ by discipline."

True!

In many cases, each discipline will have a different way of seeking and using information. Disciplines have different needs when it comes to information, relying on databases and websites specific to these unique requirements (Whitmire, 2002, p. 631). If you find yourself stuck when looking for databases or journals that meet the needs of your discipline, your tutor or university librarian can help guide you to the resources you need to succeed.

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Reference:
Whitmire, E. (2002). Disciplinary Differences and Undergraduates’ Information Seeking Behaviour. Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology, 53(8), 631- 638. https://doi-org.dbgw.lis.curtin.edu.au/10.1002/asi.10123

"The university library catalogue and databases are too complicated, Google is much easier for locating useful resources."

False!

The transition to tertiary study is often confusing, with many new sites to navigate and learn. However, by becoming familiar with the library catalogue's functions early on in your degree, you're setting yourself up for success and easier searching in the long run. Practicing your information literacy skills using databases and the library catalogue will allow you to easily search for quality, peer-reviewed sources for better assignments, so make the most of the online guides and tutorials offered by the library. If you get stuck, the library is here to help, so reach out in person or online to suit your needs.

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