Information Literacy Rubric

The ability to find, store, evaluate, and synthesize information to answer questions, develop new ones, and create new content and knowledge in an ethical and socially responsible manner.

Description

Information Literacy is the ability to find, evaluate, ethically use, and connect a wide range of information sources. It begins with a flexible and iterative approach to finding information using multiple strategies and platforms.  Information must be evaluated for the context in which it was produced, the perspectives it provides, and for relevance, reliability, credibility, and currency.  Then information should be connected and integrated to create meaning. Finally, information should be clearly attributed and accurately represented; and usage should respect relevant disciplinary or professional ethical norms.

PDF

A traditional rubric PDF for Information Literacy can be found here

Versatility

Uses diverse approaches that are informed by different contextual criteria to find sources in dialogue with one another in order to build a network of knowledge and information. Pulls together components that will allow for the creative and complementary synthesis of sources.

Finds a range of sources that matches the scope and context of the information problem using multiple strategies and tools. Search is informed by reading and following references, conversations, etc. Refines search strategies based on information from prior searches.

Finds sources that are limited by important factor(s), such as currency, format, relevancy etc. Uses multiple search strategies and tools, with some variation in keywords and strategies.

Finds sources that do not address the scope or context of the information problem. Relies on a single tool for information retrieval, and/or a single search strategy.

Finds no sources.

Appraisal

Builds a contextual justification for the use of each particular information source. Weighs evidence within the source against one’s own preconceived ideas and opinions. Explains how the cultural, professional, and/or disciplinary context shapes information production.

Selects sources that broadly fit within the scope and context of the topic or problem. Critically evaluates selected sources for currency, author credibility, information reliability, bias, perspective and intended purpose of the information source. Explains the relevance of the source and the context in which the information was produced.

Selects sources that are usually relevant to the research project. Evaluation of sources for currency, reliability and relevance may be inconsistent or lack sufficient depth.

Selects sources with minimal or incorrect distinction between or relevance to the project. Relies on a rudimentary approach to evaluation (such as whether an author has a PhD, or just listing the date published) that lacks awareness of the context in which the information was produced.

Shows no distinction between sources.

Connection

Fully synthesizes, integrates and connects sources, incorporating multiple pieces of others’ work to draw and communicate appropriate conclusions. Uses sources to generate new ideas.

Integrates multiple information sources to address the information need. Draws larger connections between multiple sources and a variety of ideas.

Uses information sources to address and/or support argument. Draws rudimentary connections across a narrow set of sources.

Summarizes information used, with minor or flawed synthesis of ideas. Outside information sources are not used to address a research question or solve an information problem.

Does not  summarize, synthesize or combine information sources.

Value

Work reflects the importance of attributing the work of others consistent with the practices and norms of a discipline or profession. Consistent, thorough, and complete attribution of sources. Reflexive modeling of the ethical guidelines, codes, or norms of a profession or discipline.

Cites sources clearly, consistently and accurately. Clearly distinguishes between ideas of self and ideas of others. Acts in accordance with the ethical guidelines, codes, or norms of relevant professions or disciplines.

Attributes or cites with some errors. Occasional omission of, or inconsistency in, important citation details. Distinctions between author’s ideas and the work of others sometimes lack clarity. Awareness of guidelines, codes, or norms of a profession or discipline, and partially integrates them into work or practice.

Attributes or cites inconsistently, and/or does not cite some sources. Distinctions between author’s ideas and the work of others  lack clarity. Application or awareness of guidelines, codes or normas of a profession or discipline is missing.

Lacks attribution of outside sources. Intentional or unintentional plagiarism.