Module 2: The Information Environment was an eye opening experience. This content highlighted and cemented the importance of Teacher Librarians and Educators as essential facilitators in student learning in this information rich world. We must acknowledge that our society influences how we learn and use information.
The Data-Knowledge Continuum was a key part of the readings that will impact how I teach into the future. The attributes of information including chaos, data, information, knowledge and wisdom are essential building blocks for student knowledge, and I propose, our knowledge as educators also. Understanding the continuum assists us in developing information literacy and digital learning experiences for our students so they can gain knowledge to a higher level (wisdom) to be able to make informed decisions with the data presented to them.
Our information society is all-encompassing. The fact that information can impact the economy and be a traded good is an intriguing concept highlighted in the readings. Recognising this impact and combining it with the amount of ‘free’ information available on the internet, our role as educators is an important one as students research and navigate the world of bias, validity and authenticity.
The evolving technology landscape allows our students to connect with information that is readily accessible and on highly interactive platforms. However, this digital environment is extremely dense and continually changing. As Teacher Librarians, we must be a reliable source of guidance and knowledge ourselves, and teach a range of critical analysis and digital literacy skills, in order to assist our students through this complex information landscape.
Oddone, K. (2022). Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom. [YouTube video].
https://youtu.be/9i3_soqoC00
Wideman, R. M. (2008). The Information Hierarchy. [Powerpoint slides]. http://www.maxwideman.com/issacons/iac1013d/sld004.htm