Gaps in Information Literacy Knowledge and Skills among First-Year Postsecondary Students in Minnesota: Key Findings and Recommendations from Interviews with Faculty
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| Title: | Gaps in Information Literacy Knowledge and Skills among First-Year Postsecondary Students in Minnesota: Key Findings and Recommendations from Interviews with Faculty |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Anna Granias, Stephanie Nelson-Dusek, Amherst H. Wilder Foundation, Wilder Research |
| Source: | Wilder Research. 2026. |
| Availability: | Wilder Research. Available from: Amherst H. Wilder Foundation. 451 Lexington Parkway North, Saint Paul, MN 55104. Tel: 651-280-2700; Fax: 651-280-3700; e-mail: research@wilder.org; Web site: http://www.wilder.org/Wilder-Research |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 31 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Sponsoring Agency: | Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) |
| Document Type: | Reports - Research Tests/Questionnaires |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education Two Year Colleges Elementary Secondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Information Literacy, College Freshmen, College Faculty, Two Year Colleges, Colleges, Information Sources, Ethics, Credibility, Accuracy, Information Utilization, Search Strategies, Research Skills, College Instruction, School Libraries, Elementary Secondary Education, Digital Literacy, Technological Literacy, Literacy |
| Geographic Terms: | Minnesota |
| Abstract: | The ability to critically evaluate sources, use technology effectively, and engage responsibly in digital spaces is fundamental to both workforce success and a functioning democracy. In fall 2025, Minnesota librarians partnered with Wilder Research to assess existing gaps in students' information literacy skills as they begin college. Wilder conducted in-depth interviews with 21 faculty from varied colleges and universities across the state who teach first-year students. Faculty were asked about the gaps between the knowledge and skills first-year students are expected to have and the knowledge and skills they had on entry to college. The questions focused on four key domains based on updated standards for 12th graders from ITEM (Information & Technology Educators of Minnesota): information literacy and research, digital citizenship, technology and innovation, and literacy engagement. The findings reveal large gaps in student preparedness for college that, if not addressed, could have negative implications for Minnesota's future workforce. This report summarizes those findings and presents recommendations for policymakers and K-12 educators to ensure Minnesota students graduate with the skills that our information age demands. |
| Abstractor: | ERIC |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | ED679799 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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