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#SearchSmart! Information Literacy Tutorial

This is a self-learning tutorial that addresses each stage of the research process, including: identifying information needs; selecting sources; finding high-quality, scholarly information; evaluating information; and using information responsibly.

Identify your Information Needs

Ask yourself a few questions to save time on the preparation for an assignment.  

When one wants to answer a question, it is useful to start by defining one's information need. Make sure that you know exactly what you need to do before you try to find appropriate information. Even if the lecturer has assigned your topic, it is still your responsibility to define your response to the task.

These questions may include some or all of the following: 

  • Do I know anything about my assigned topic?
  • Do I understand the instructions given by the lecturer?
  • Does the assignment question ask me for a personal opinion of the subject?
  • Am I expected to use research material to fulfill the task requirements?
  • What type of information do I need?
  • Should I use online, multimedia and print resources?
  • How much information do I really need, i.e. is it a ten minute presentation or a five page assignment?
  • Which format must be used to deliver the assignment?

UWC LIBRARY & INFORMATION SERVICES

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Bellville,

7535

Tel: 021 959 2946