Using Infographic as Virtual Learning Object for Information Literacy Instruction

Abstract

June 6, 2022

Background: 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 as Virtual Learning Object (VLO) for Information literacy instruction to promote information literacy topics with the dual purpose of providing an instructional alternative and reaching a greater number of students virtually. Each VLO pursued a learning objective and learning activities. The activities of the VLO consisted of applying the educational information from the infographic to the students' academic work and supporting the execution of these instructions in their assignments.

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 VLO for information literacy instruction 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. The infographics provided greater interest to students in visiting the library staff virtually and in person to consult and request support to apply the educational information of the infographics in their academic work. Students also began to use infographics as tutorials.