ACRL Information Literacy Framework (ILF) for Higher Education

The ACRL (Association of College and Research Libraries) Information Literacy Framework for Higher Education is a guiding document that outlines the key concepts, skills, and dispositions that students should develop to become information literate. Information literacy is the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively and ethically. The ACRL Framework was first introduced in 2015 and represents a shift from a skills-based approach to a more conceptual and integrated understanding of information literacy.

The framework is organized around six frames, each highlighting a particular aspect of information literacy:

1. **Authority Is Constructed and Contextual:**
   - Recognizing that authority is constructed and contextual helps learners critically evaluate information and understand that authority may be conferred or manifested in various ways.

2. **Information Creation as a Process:**
   - Understanding the various processes involved in information creation helps learners become more critical consumers and producers of information. This frame emphasizes the dynamic and evolving nature of information.

3. **Information Has Value:**
   - Recognizing the value of information emphasizes the importance of ethical and legal considerations in information use. Learners should understand the economic, social, and cultural aspects of information and the implications of its use.

4. **Research as Inquiry:**
   - Viewing research as a process of inquiry encourages learners to approach information seeking as an iterative process. This frame emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and the ability to ask meaningful questions.

5. **Scholarship as Conversation:**
   - Understanding scholarship as a conversation highlights the interconnectedness of information and the importance of participating in scholarly discourse. Learners should recognize that information sources contribute to ongoing discussions and debates.

6. **Searching as Strategic Exploration:**
   - Approaching information searching as a strategic exploration emphasizes the need for learners to develop effective search strategies and adapt them as needed. This frame encourages learners to be purposeful and thoughtful in their information-seeking activities.

Educators and librarians use the ACRL Information Literacy Framework to design instructional programs that help students develop these key concepts and skills throughout their academic journey. The framework provides a flexible and adaptable foundation for integrating information literacy into various disciplines and educational contexts.

(with the aid of ChatGPT)