LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICES

STUDENT STUDY GUIDE

Module name Introduction to Information Literacy

Module ACL125X, Module credits 2 NQF level 5
code(s) ALE125D,
ALI125X,
IIL125D,
ILS125D,
INI125D,
INI125N,
INI125U
INL125X,
INY125D

Compiled by: Nelis Botha

Date of last revision: 12 February 2025
© COPYRIGHT: Tshwane University of Technology; Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION A: ORGANISATIONAL COMPONENT

1.1 WELCOME
1.2 STAFF
1.2.1 CONTACT DETAILS
1.2.2 STAFF AVAILABILTY
1.3 REQUIRMENTS, RESOURCES AND RECOMMENDED MATERIAL
1.3.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MODULE
1.4 CODE OF CONDUCT
1.4.1 ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION
1.4.2 BEHAVIOUR
1.4.3 RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS

SECTION B: LEARNING COMPONENT

2.1 OVERVIEW OF THE MODULE
2.1.1 LINKS TO OTHER MODULES
2.1.2 YEAR AND ASSESSMENT PLAN
2.1.3 GRADUATE ATTRIBUTES
2.1.4 MODULE OUTCOMES
2.2 ASSESSMENT
2.2.1 ASSESSMENT METHODS AND CRITERIA
2.2.2 ASSESSMENT RULES
2.2.3 PROMOTION
2.2.4 MODERATION
2.3 MODULE CONTENT
2.3.1 OUTCOMES, TEACHING AND LEARNING STRATEGY AND
ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENT
2.4 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
2.5 ASSESSMENT RECORDS
2.5.1 EXAMPLE OF A QUIZ QUESTION
2.5.2 EXAMPLE OF A TEST QUESTION
2.6 APPENDICES
2.7 REFERENCES
SECTION A ORGANISATIONAL COMPONENT

1.1 WELCOME
Welcome to Information Literacy! We live in an information age that is characterized by an
abundance of information. Technological developments have accelerated access to
information. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find relevant quality information.
This fundamental module is designed to equip you with essential competencies, skills and
knowledge to navigate information effectively during your studies at Tshwane University of
Technology.
The module is offered on a block basis via myTUTor. The module follows an asynchronous
approach which means there is no scheduled lectures that you must attend according to a
predetermined lecturing timetable. Instead, you must complete the module in your own time
an at your own pace within specific timeframes.
This module will contribute to your academic success as a first-year student. If you work
hard, you will capitalize on the benefits of an information literate person. We trust that you
are going to enjoy this module.

1.2 STAFF

1.2.1 CONTACT DETAILS

Name and surname Contact details Academic function

Mr. Andries Maphosa [email protected] Module facilitator
Mr. Billy Mahlangu [email protected] Module facilitator
Ms. Eunice Ditshego [email protected] Module facilitator
Ms. Joekster van Tonder [email protected] Module facilitator
Ms. Joyce Mfete [email protected] Module facilitator
Ms. Keletso Llale [email protected] Module facilitator
Dr. Kwetepe Malatji [email protected] Module facilitator
Ms. Lynette Botha [email protected] Module facilitator
Ms. Mapula Kganyago [email protected] Module facilitator
Ms. Nthabiseng Sejanamane [email protected] Module facilitator
Mr. Sihle Ngubane [email protected] Module facilitator
Mr. Tshepiso Ntloedibe [email protected] Module facilitator
Mr. Nelis Botha [email protected] Head
Note:
Refer to the information literacy myTUTor module to see which facilitator is responsible for
your academic department.

1.2.1 STAFF AVAILABILITY

If, after making every effort from your side to master the content, you still have problems with
understanding key concepts or the application thereof, your module facilitator is available for
consultation by appointment via Microsoft Teams. Contact the module facilitator of your
department by email to make an appointment for a virtual consultation session. Module
facilitators are available Mondays to Fridays between 08:00 and 16:00.
1.3 REQUIREMENTS, RESOURCES AND RECOMMENDED MATERIAL

1.3.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MODULE

This module is completed via myTUTor. You will need access to a computer or a device
such as a tablet or a smart phone that is connected to the Internet to complete the module.
Computers can be accessed via an i-Centre. Refer to your campus map for the location of
an i-Centre on your campus. Alternatively, you can enquire at your campus library for the
location of an i-Centre on your campus. If you are using a tablet or smart phone to access
and complete the module, it is recommended that your download and install the Brightspace
Pulse application. Refer to the university’s Website for more information regarding the
Brightspace Pulse application.

1.3.1.1 PRESCRIBED RESOURCES

There are no prescribed resources for this module. All resources that are required to
complete the module are shared on myTUTor.

1.3.1.2 RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

The following resources will enhance your understanding and knowledge in this module.

Category Author Title Year Edition Publisher ISBN

Bothma, T. Navigating Information 2017 5th Pearson Academic 9781776101818
Cosijn, E. Literacy: Your Information
et al. Society Survival Toolkit.
Book
No author Brief Guide to Citing and 2018 Tshwane University None
Referencing* of Technology
e-Resource

1.4 CODE OF CONDUCT

You are expected to familiarise yourself with the TUT rules and regulations as set out in the
Prospectus.

1.4.1 ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION

There are no scheduled lectures in this module. The module outcomes must be completed
in your own time and at your own pace within specific timeframes. Your active participation
in the information literacy module on myTUTor is essential if you want to pass this module
and capitalise on the benefits of an information literate person.

1.4.2 BEHAVIOUR
You are expected to:
• complete all the learning activities and quizzes within the stipulated timeframes,
• show respect for your module facilitator and fellow students when interacting with them on
myTUTor. Comments that are inappropriate in a face-to-face environment are also
inappropriate online and
• engage in robust debate where it is appropriate.
When using the communication tools on myTUTor, please refrain from:
• using abbreviations that are typically used in short text messages,
• using language that is socially unacceptable and may cause offence and
• posting messages that are unrelated to the module and the matter under discussion.
1.4.3 RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS
It is your responsibility to make a success of learning in this subject. It is therefore important
to work through the learning activities on myTUTor and complete the required assessment
activities before the stipulated due dates.

SECTION B LEARNING COMPONENT

2.1 OVERVIEW OF THE MODULE

This module provides students with a basic introduction to information literacy skills. At the
end of this module, after successfully completing all the learning activities and assessments
you will have a basic level of competence and skills to locate information sources, evaluate
located information and use information in an ethical and legal manner.
This module consists of two (2) credits, which means the total learning time is twenty (20)
hours. The twenty (20) hours include the time to complete all the learning activities and
prepare for and complete all the assessment activities.
The module is divided into different units as reflected in Section 2.3 of this guide.

2.1.1 LINKS TO OTHER MODULES

This module is one of four fundamental learning modules that all first-year students must
complete. The aim of the four fundamental learning modules is to provide you with essential
knowledge and skills that will enhance your academic development and success and
prepare you for your future career. This module specifically contributes to the development
of your competencies as an information literate person.
There are no prerequisites to complete this module. However, you need a basic computer
proficiency to successfully complete the module.

2.1.2 GRADUATE ATTRIBUTES

The information literacy skills and competencies in this module contribute to graduate
attributes as summarised in the table below:
Graduate attribute Competence in this graduate attribute is demonstrated when:
Problem solving • Information sources required to solve a problem are identified.
• Relevant information sources required to solve a problem are located.
• Located information sources are evaluated using a standardised set of
criteria to determine their appropriateness for use.
• Information sources that contribute to solving a problem are cited and
referenced in the designated reference style format.
• Information is organised according to an appropriate categorisation scheme.
• Information is managed using an appropriate reference management tool
such as EndNote online
Application of knowledge • Information literacy knowledge is applied to locate, evaluate, use information
ethically and legally and organise and manage information on a basic level.
• Basic knowledge of information literacy competencies is applied to the
communication of concepts, ideas and theories
Investigation, experiments • Available literature relevant to investigations and experiments is located,
and data analysis evaluated, cited and referenced according to the designated reference style
format.
• Information and data are organised according to an appropriate
categorisation scheme.
 Technical and professional • Information is cited and referenced in the designated reference style format.
communication • Information and data are organised according to an appropriate
categorisation scheme
Professionalism • Information is used in an ethical and legal manner by citing and referencing
information using a designated reference style format.

2.1.3 YEAR AND ASSESSMENT PLAN

The information literacy module is presented on a block basis. The due dates for the
completion of the learning activities, the corresponding quizzes and the final test are
communicated on myTUTor. Students will be notified via myTUTor if due dates change.
See the table below for an outline of the year and assessment plan.
Due date / Timeframe Description
Completion of learning activities and corresponding quizzes that form part
16 February 2025 by 23:59
of unit 1.
Completion of learning activities and corresponding quizzes that form part
2 March 2025 by 23:59
of unit 2.
Completion of learning activities and corresponding quizzes that form part
16 March 2025 by 23:59
of unit 3.
Completion of learning activities and corresponding quizzes that form part
6 April 2025 by 23:59
of unit 4.
From 08:00 on 5 May 2025
until 16:00 on 9 May 2025
and Completion of online test
From 08:00 on 19 May 2025
until 16:00 23 May 2025
From 5 May 2025 until 30 June Completion of feedback survey. (Survey will become available after
2025 completion of the test)

2.1.4 MODULE OUTCOMES

The following table clearly indicates the learning outcomes that you must achieve for each
unit:
Unit Title Learning outcome(s)
Unit 1 Introducing information literacy On completion of this unit, you will be able to explain the
basic principles of and need for information literacy.
Unit 2 Locating information sources On completion of this unit, you will be able to locate
information sources for a defined task (such as an
assignment).
Unit 3 Evaluating information sources On completion of this unit, you will be able to evaluate
information sources using generic criteria such as currency,
authority, accuracy, purpose, objectivity and writing style.
Unit 4 Using information in an ethical On completion of this unit, you will be able to use information
and legal manner in an ethical and legal manner.

2.2 ASSESSMENT
This module follows a continuous assessment strategy. Assessment activities that
contribute towards the final mark include the completion of quizzes that form part of the
learning activities of each unit and the completion of an online test. This is a non-
examination module.

2.2.1 ASSESSMENT METHODS AND CRITERIA

The tables below indicate the assessment criteria and assessment methods for each unit:

Unit 1 Introducing information literacy

Learning outcome On completion of this unit, you will be able to explain the basic principles of
and need for information literacy.
Assessment criteria Assessment method
• Information literacy in an academic environment is Quizzes via myTUTor after completion of
defined. corresponding learning activities
• The basic competencies of an information literacy Online test via myTUTor on date as reflected in
person are described. Section 2.1.3
• The value of information literacy in an academic is
explained.
• The correct type of information source is identified based
on a specific information need.

Unit 2 Locating information

On completion of this unit, you will be able to locate information sources for a
Learning outcomes
defined task (such as an assignment).
Assessment criteria Assessment method
• The relevant search approach is identified based on a Quizzes via myTUTor after completion of
specific information need. corresponding learning activities
• The topic of a defined/specific task is divided into action, Online test via myTUTor on date as reflected in
theme and limiting words. Section 2.1.3
• A search string is develop using tools such as Boolean
operators, truncation and parentheses.
• A search string is applied to general search engines and
academic databases.
• Search results are refined to enhance the relevancy of
search results.
• Subscribed electronic content is accessed.
• Different types of databases are recognised.
• Databases appropriate for a specific need are identified.
• Basic terminologies used by databases are explained.
• The interface of databases is navigated on a basic level.
• The functionality of different search options of databases
is described.
• The search results (of a single database) using different
search strings are analysed and compared.
• The format of search results from a search engine is
explained.
• The default use of Boolean operators by search engines
is explained.
• The search options available on search engines are
described.
• The search results from a search engine using different
search strings are compared and analysed.
• Search results are refined to enhance relevancy of
search results.

Unit 3 Evaluating information

On completion of this unit, you will be able to evaluate information sources
Learning outcome using criteria such as currency, authority, accuracy, purpose, objectivity and
writing style.
Assessment criteria Assessment method
 • The importance of evaluating information is discussed. Quizzes via myTUTor after completion of
• Located information is evaluated using criteria such as corresponding learning activities
currency, authority, accuracy, purpose, objectivity and Online test via myTUTor on date as reflected in
writing style. Section 2.1.3
• The results obtained from the evaluation of different
information sources are compared and analysed to
determine the appropriateness of each source.

Unit 4 Using information ethically and legally

On completion of this unit, you will be able to use information in an ethical
Learning outcome
and legal manner.
Assessment criteria Assessment method
• The copyright status of an information source is Quizzes via myTUTor after completion of
determined/ identified. corresponding learning activities
• The “fair use” principle of copyrighted works is Online test via myTUTor on date as reflected in
explained. Section 2.1.3
• Plagiarism is defined.
• The different types of plagiarism are described.
• The importance of citing and referencing is explained.
• The main categories of citation and referencing styles
are described.
• The unique characteristics of the main categories of
citation and referencing styles are compared.
• Referencing of information sources is defined.
• “Common knowledge” is defined.
• The main types of “common knowledge” are explained.
• The difference between a reference list and a
bibliography is explained.
• Bibliographic information of a variety of information
sources are converted into a designated reference style
format.
• Additional information about citation and referencing
styles is accessed.
• A bibliography/reference list is compiled in line with the
criteria of the designated citation and reference style.
• Information used in an assignment is cited in line with a
designated reference style format.
• A bibliography and reference list are compiled using a
designated referencing style format.
• Appropriate citation and referencing techniques are used
to correct plagiarism mistakes in a manuscript.

2.2.2 ASSESSMENT RULES

You are expected to familiarise yourself with all the assessment related rules that are
published in the university’s Prospectus.
Important note
Rule 4.1.11.1 (h) of Part 1 of the Prospectus clearly states that a student is guilty of
misconduct when helping or trying to help another student during a test, examination or any
form of assessment, or obtaining or trying to obtain help from another student during such
test, examination or assessment, or the submission of any test, examination script or written
assignment or any assessment of another student in his or her name. A student who
contravenes this rule shall be dealt with in terms of the Disciplinary Code for Students
(Chapter 15).
A student who has a disability must supply the information literacy facilitator with a
notification letter from the Directorate of Student Development and Support at least 14 days
prior to a scheduled assessment to be considered for special arrangements.
Please take note of the following specific rules:
Quizzes
• The completion of quizzes that form of the learning activities is compulsory.
• Quizzes that form part of the learning activities must be completed within the stipulated
timeframe.
• You have six attempts to complete each quiz.
• The highest score obtained in the allocated attempts will be used to calculate the final
quiz score.
• A minimum quiz score of at least 25% is required to proceed to the next learning activity
and corresponding quiz.
• The scoring of quizzes is automated. Feedback is immediate.
Online test
• The test can only be completed during the stipulated timeframe.
• The online test will only become available during the stipulated timeframe after all quizzes
have been completed and a quiz score of at least 25% has been obtain for each quiz.
• You have three attempts to complete the online test.
• The highest score obtained in the allocated attempts will be used in the calculation of the
final mark.
• When you have commenced with the test you have 60 minutes to complete it. The test
will automatically end after the time limit has passed.
• You must obtain as minimum score of at least 25% in the online test. Failure to obtain the
required subminimum will result in you failing the module.
• The scoring of the online test is automated. Feedback is immediate.
Contact your information literacy facilitator immediately if you experience a problem when
completing a quiz or the online test.

2.2.3 PROMOTION
This is a non-examination module. There is no predicate mark.
You must have a final mark of 50% or higher to pass the module.
The final mark is calculated as follows:
Final mark = 50% of online test + 50% of combined score of quizzes.
To pass the module you must obtain a minimum score of 25% for the online test and 25% for
the quizzes. Failure to meet the minimum scores will result in you failing the module,
irrespective your final mark.
The table below provides examples of how marks are calculated:
Score for online test Combined score for Final score Comment
quizzes
80% 58% 50% of 80 = 40% and Pass
50% of 58 = 29%
Reason
1) A minimum of 25% for the
40%+29% = 69%
online test and quizzes was
obtained.
2) The final mark is higher
than 50%.
22% 84% 50% of 22 = 11% Fail
and
50% of 84 = 42% Reason
A minimum of 25% for the
online test was not obtained
11% + 42% = 53%
 36% 52% 50% of 36 = 18% Fail
and
50% of 52% = 26% Reason
A final mark of less than 50%
was obtained
18% + 26% = 44%

In line with the university policy on Credit Accumulation and Transfer, students who have
successfully completed an information literacy subject or module at an accredited higher
education institution (including Tshwane University of Technology) can apply for exemption
or recognition by completing the application form for credit accumulation and transfer and
submitting the form to the faculty’s student services administrator.

2.2.4 MODERATION
The module is not offered at an exit level. Assessment in this module is therefore moderated
by an internal moderator that is appointed by the Department of Library and Information
Services. The details of the moderator are as follows:
Initials and surname Highest qualification Year obtained
MC Mashaba Magister Technologiae: Business Information Systems 2021

2.3 MODULE CONTENT

All content is shared in the information literacy module on myTUTor. The table below
provides a summary of the topics covered in the units that form part of the module.
Unit Unit title Topics covered
Unit 1 Introducing information literacy • Definition of information literacy
• Information literacy competencies
• Value of information literacy
• Correct type of information source for a specific need
Unit 2 Locating information sources • Search approaches
• Construct a search strategy
• Analyse an assignment topic
• Develop concepts
• Create a search string
• Ebsco discovery tool
• Access subscribed content (databases) of TUT
• Database terminologies
• Navigate database interfaces
• Analyse and compare search results
• Use search engines
• Refine search results to enhance its relevancy
Unit 3 Evaluating information sources • Importance of evaluating information
• Evaluate criteria
• Apply evaluation criteria in practice
Unit 4 Using information in an ethical • Comply with legal and ethical aspects of information usage
and legal manner • Copyright status of an item
• “Fair use”
• Plagiarism
• Citing and referencing
• Main categories of citation and referencing styles
• “Common knowledge”
• Convert bibliographic information into a designated
referencing style
• Bibliography and reference list
• Correct plagiarism mistakes by correcting plagiarism
mistakes

2.3.1 OUTCOMES, LEARNING AND TEACHING STRATEGY AND ASSESSMENT

INSTRUMENT
This module is completed via myTUTor. There are no lectures that must be attended
according to a predetermined scheduled. The learning and teaching strategy in this module
involve the sequential completion of diverse learning activities such as watching videos,
reading documents and performing exercises. After each learning activity there is a
corresponding quiz that must be completed. Learning in the module is enhanced by the
discussion of different topics in a discussion forum.
Refer to the tables included in Section 2.2.1 for a summary of the learning outcomes and
assessment instruments.
Detailed information about the learning outcomes, a description of the learning activities and
a suggested time allocation for completion of the learning activities are shared on myTUTor
at the start of each unit.

2.4 GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Concepts and terms used in this module are explained in the information literacy myTUTor
module.

2.5 ASSESSMENT RECORDS

Examples of the implementation of assessment criteria and assessment methods are
provided below. These examples serve to orientate and prepare you how assessment
criteria are used and applied in the assessment methods adopted in this module.

2.5.1 EXAMPLE OF A QUIZ QUESTION

The number of questions included in a quiz vary. Each question in a quiz that is answered
correctly counts 1 point. Below is an example of a quiz question on myTUTor
From the list below select the database that hosts a variety of books and other products, mostly in the
Accounting, Legislative, Business and Corporate Governance arena. Typical resources that are accessible
via this database include: GAAP Handbook, King Report III and IV, Deloitte and Touche VAT Handbook etc.
AccessSience (McGraw-Hill)

ChemSpider

ERIC

LexisNexis

Sabinet Journals

2.5.2 EXAMPLE OF A TEST QUESTION

The online test consists 23 questions. Each question that is answered correctly counts 1.
point. Below is an example of an online test question on myTUTor
Select all the statements below that are true.
An information literate person is able to correctly cite and reference information sources used in an
assignment.
The ability to listen attentively to a lecture is an information literacy competency.

The Boolean operator “AND” in a search string expands the scope of a search.
 “Objectivity” is of one of the criteria that are commonly used to determine the credibility of an
information source.

As a general rule “common knowledge” does not need to be cited and referenced in an assignment.

2.6 APPENDICES

2.7 REFERENCES