Information 101  

Welcome to the Jean Burr Smith Library's 'Information 101' course. This course consists of eight modules that will help students develop and improve upon their information-seeking skills. Instructors may assign these modules throughout the semester to ensure their students are well on their way to developing the competencies needed for graduation and beyond.

To begin, read the Learning Outcomes to the right. As you work through the modules, read each module's learning outcomes first and then spend the necessary time reviewing the online links to tip sheets, research guides, and videos. The modules correspond to the different steps in the research process and each one should take about 30-45 minutes to complete.

Module 1: Intro to the Library

Module 2: Understand Discipline-Specific Info

Module 3: Define Your Topic

Module 4: Develop a Search Strategy

Module 5: Refine Your Search

Module 6: Evaluate What You Find

Module 7: Use Info Ethically and Legally

Module 8: Present Your Research

This Information 101 guide is intended to help students develop into effective, efficient, and ethical researchers, crucial skills for success now and in the future. We have created many other guides specific to classes and programs of study at MxCC. Please refer here for a complete list. If you don't find one specific to your needs, please contact the Library at 860.343.5830, mx-library@mxcc.commnet.edu.

Learning Outcomes

MxCC has established competencies in information literacy that students should attain upon graduation. All faculty, full and part-time, are encouraged to incorporate these learning outcomes into their courses where they can.

Specific outcomes include the ability to:

1. Recognize how information is generally organized and disseminated and how to access it.
2. Identify key resources for and effectively navigate information within specific disciplines.
3. Define a specific research topic and determine the nature and extent of the information needed for it.
4. Develop and implement an initial search strategy appropriate for a specific research need.
5. Assess the effectiveness of a search strategy and refine it as necessary.
6. Evaluate information and sources critically to determine if they are appropriate for use.
7. Identify and employ practices which are consistent with the ethical and legal uses of information.
8. Organize, synthesize, and communicate information effectively.

... is the ability to understand, navigate, and use information effectively. As information is a prominent part of all facets of our modern society and lifestyle, Middlesex Community College (MxCC) recognizes the importance of information literacy in college education.