Class information

LIB 100 – Library Research

25 students

Library Research (LIBR 100) is a one-credit course for students who are interested in improving their research skills. The course covers a range of information literacy principles, including: evaluating sources, understanding differences between sources,
 recognizing bias, and observing the landscape of information communication. Under the theme of identity, students will participate in activities to engage in the research process, from selecting a topic and asking a research question to structuring a research paper.

Project overview

Using the theme of identity for an information research class, students worked on activities that encouraged them to consider aspects of their identity as they applied the information literacy concepts covered in class. Examples include an assignment for which students selected Wikipedia articles with their identities in mind to track and identify sources listed in the footnotes. For an assignment on bias, students explored their own confirmation bias. Students brainstormed identity related topics for the research process assignment, and a peer review component helped students focus their questions

Why did you select this project? How does it relate to identity and purpose?

I selected the theme for the class to provide students with opportunities to explore their identities. Research, source evaluation, and understanding bias were some of the information literacy concepts they applied.  A student reply to a question about using the theme of identity in class activities: “The bias assignment allowed us to think critically about what we believe or don’t believe and why, which is very related to shaping our identity.”

What advice do you have for other faculty who would like to implement a similar project?

Use examples that represent aspects of your own identity to encourage students to explore theirs.

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