Information Fluency is the ability to unconsciously and intuitively interpret information in all forms and formats in order to extract the essential knowledge, authenticate it, and perceive its meaning and significance. The data can then be used to complete real-world tasks and solve real-world problems effectively.
The process of Information Fluency is defined by the 5As.
This involves compiling a list of critical questions about what knowledge or data is being sought. The key here is to ask meaningful questions, because that’s how you get useful answers.
Accessing information isn’t as easy as it used to be. This stage involves accessing and collecting informational materials from the most appropriate digital and non-digital sources.
With all the raw data collected we must now authenticate, organize, and arrange it all. This stage also involves ascertaining whether information is true or not, and distinguishing the good from the bad.
Once data is collected and verified, and a solution is finally created, the knowledge must then be practically applied within the context of the original purpose for the information quest.
This involves open and lively discussions about how the problem-solving journey could have been made more efficient, and how the solution created could be applied to challenges of a similar nature.