A Multi Faceted Programme for Information Skills Development: University of Kelaniya

Abstract

Development of information literacy (IL) skills of undergraduates enables them to pursue their higher studies more effectively and make them effective life-long learners. This has become necessary as most of the students have the habit of getting the knowledge component from either in the school or at an external class. In order to assess reading habits and ICT skills etc. of the students admitted to the University, two consecutive surveys carried out in 2007 and 2008 and summary of the findings are given. It also narrates the efforts taken to offer an IL skills development programme for undergraduate students with the outline of the syllabus prepared. The pilot project conducted in 2008 was not successful and probable reasons and future plans are discussed.

Keywords: Information literacy, User education, Higher education, University of Kelaniya

Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka, Vol.13 (Special Issue). 2009 5-22