In Libraries, “data literacy” is a phrase used to describe the ability to locate, analyze and successfully use data sets and statistics.
It is comprised of 2 parts: information literacy and data curation.
From an information literacy perspective, the emphasis is on data sets and statistics, which are considered a special form of information but one that still falls under the rubric of information literacy.
Information literacy is defined as:
- The ability to know when there is a need for data and/or statistics;
- To be able to identify appropriate data sets and/or statistics;
- Locate and access these data sets and/or statistics;
- Evaluate and Effectively use that the data sets and/or statistics.
Data curation is the activity of establishing a data and statistical collection within an institution and the ability to extend the collection by being able to locate and access data sets and statistical information external to the institution that can be accessed by students and faculty for research and teaching purposes.
