S3 E2: Information and Digital Literacy

Have you ever read an article from The Onion and laughed? Have you then observed a family member share that same article on Facebook, believing it was fact? How do you politely let her know what she's sharing as "truth" is actually satire? Information Literacy and Digital Literacy sound like big, scary, words the average person wouldn't use. But when it comes down to it, Information Literacy is a set of abilities requiring individuals to recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information. In a digital age where information is being shared quickly and without second thought, we need to build up our Digital Literacy, which the ALA defines as: “the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills.” Basically, using technology appropriately and effectively. Bethany and Emmi sit down with frequent guest and Librarian Ike to discuss misinformation, disinformation, confirmation bias, and maybe the most important ways to combat the spread of falseness and intent to harm: Fact Checking and the CRAP Test (no, seriously). Mesa County Libraries is always available to assist patrons in finding facts and evaluating sources. Visit mesacountylibraries.org, email us at [email protected], or call 970-243-4442 for more information.