Layers of Learning in Research in an Electronic Environment

by Patricia O'Brien Libutti and Susan Blandy

INQUIRY LAYER:

Recognizes the need for information
Conceptualizes questions
Extends questions into language
Individualizes an inquiry and directs it appropriately
Re-articulates inquiry in the light of information

LIBRARY LAYER:

Describes own information need
Recognizes and applies the classification of information used in the information environment, whether it be a physical setting or a database
Recognizes format distinctions
Knows and can apply location descriptions
Navigates the environment from citation to access

TECHNOLOGY LAYER:

Translates own question into search structure
Applies accurately search protocol for particular database
Uses multiple computer literacies
Decodes electronic text
Operates computer and peripherals

SCHOLARLY LAYER:

Recognizes data as data and transforms it into information through connections
Can "have a dialogue"with a represented point of view (whether in print or in person)
Demonstrates skill in communicating discoveries, findings, to identified audience
Reflects on diverse points of view, holding onto ambiguity and tension while examining evidence
Develops an individual viewpoint in relationship to the literature.
Examines individual pieces of literature and develops a pattern of inquiry across all literature examined on a topic
Employs metacognitive strategies to regulate learning, searching and production of information


Copyright 1995 P. Libutti and S. Blandy. First presented at As the Cursor Blinks: Electronic Scholarship and Instruction. Westchester Library Association, April 28, 1995. Permission is given to reproduce in whole or in part provided that attribution is included.