What is the iSkills Assessment?
The iSkills assessment is a simulation-based test designed to measure information and communication technology (ICT) literacy, that is, a student’s ability to navigate, critically evaluate and communicate information using digital technology, communication tools and networks. During the 60-minute assessment, college students are asked to perform several information problem-solving tasks—such as researching a topic from a database, identifying authoritative and unbiased web sites, or composing an e-mail summary of research findings. http://www.ets.org/iskills/
Why is the library doing this?
To measure information and communication technology literacy skills of LMU students. Are they prepared for the workforce? The library tested 55 seniors during spring 2008 and 54 freshmen fall semester 2008, and then compared the scores. The seniors took the advanced version and freshmen took the Core assessment. The library is now testing a group of seniors in 2012 to close the loop and compare scores to the freshmen from 2008. The library would like to prove to WASC that we are serious about creating a culture of evidence related to student learning. We can also look for patterns across subgroups defined by ethnic background, major, or other characteristics.
Goal 1
Students will be creative and critical thinkers who are able to integrate and use knowledge and skills from an array of disciplines, possess lifelong learning skills and value new experiences as opportunities for growth.
Student Learning Outcomes
Information Literacy: Students will be able to identify information needs, locate and access relevant information and critically evaluate a diverse array of sources
- from the Loyola Marymount University Undergraduate Learning Goals and Outcomes
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iSkills Test Dates Location: The library E-classroom, WHH 118 |
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Standards approved by the Association of Colleges & Research Libraries (ACRL)
An information literate individual is able to:
Define: Understand and articulate the scope of an information problem to facilitate the electronic search for information.
Access: Collect and/or retrieve information in digital environments. Information sources might be web pages, databases, discussion groups, email or online descriptions of print media.
Evaluate: Judge whether information satisfies an information problem by determining bias, authority, timeliness, relevance, and other aspects of materials.
Manage: Organize information to help you and others find it later.
Integrate: Integrate and represent information using digital tools to synthesize, summarize, compare and contrast information from multiple sources.
Create: Adapt, apply, design or construct information in digital environment environments.
Communicate: Disseminate information tailored to a particular audience in an effective digital format.
Content Topics:
Technology Topics: