The University of Bolton is committed to helping each student graduate as an 'information literate' person. This means that they will be able to identify, locate and retrieve standard (subject) and other material in printed and electronic form, using appropriate resources. They will be able to synthesise and present retrieved materials in ways appropriate to the task in hand.

Throughout their programmes, students will be given every opportunity to develop their skills in this area, through workshops, seminars, tutorials and self-directed learning.

The Library's Commitment

The Library's role in this commitment is to facilitate the achievement of the 'information literate' state. We will do this, in collaboration with academics, by designing and running relevant sessions, with agreed learning outcomes and key competencies/skills, to encourage the students to meet the required core standards (as described in the university's Information Literacy Framework|).

The role of Subject Librarians

Working with academic colleagues, Subject Librarians will (when appropriate) facilitate learning sessions in a timely manner.

The sessions will be designed to meet the Information Literacy (IL) learning outcomes for the relevant level of study, and be subject and assignment specific.

Assessment

The assessment of each piece of work should include a recognition of the IL skills included, and Librarians will be happy to be involved in the assessment and feedback process.

Student Liaison Officers

The Student Liaison Officers (SLOs) in each School, also have a part to play in this process. Again, working in collaboration with academic colleagues and Subject Librarians, they will facilitate learning in the area of the core standards.

The SLOs offer confidential advice and support on a wide range of academic issues, in order to help students develop their skills for independent learning, and become information literate. These skills also include such things as writing essays, reports and dissertations, exam and revision techniques, time management and presentation skills.