Information literacy using infographics: A virtual alternative for instruction

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the transformation from a face-to-face environment to an online or hybrid mode in higher education posed new challenges for libraries and their efforts to foster information literacy. The NUC University library, Río Grande Campus, implemented the use of infographics to promote information literacy topics with the dual purpose of providing an instructional alternative and reaching a greater number of students virtually.

Method: Infographics were prepared addressing specific information literacy topics using the

web-based graphic design platform, Canva. Infographics were sent weekly to the global student email list in PNG image format (with descriptive alternative text) and PDF format. This project was conducted for 11 weeks from September to November 2021, sending 11 infographics to students. The topics of the infographics were the following: annotated bibliography, search for information in databases, evaluating sources with CRAAP, fake news, cite the contributing work, academic integrity, organize information, synthesize ideas gathered from multiple sources, open access information resources, types of sources (primary, secondary, tertiary) and writing an essay.

Results: Using infographics as an instructional alternative in informational literacy was effective in the following aspects: it gave greater visibility to the library and its services amid the limited presence of students due to the situation of the pandemic, provided greater interest to students in visiting the library staff in person or virtually to consult aspects of information literacy, and the use of infographics as tutorials to assist with their academic's work.