The Crucial Interplay of Information Literacy and Writing Skills in College

Abstract

This research paper examines the crucial interplay of information literacy and writing skills among college students, highlighting their integral role in academic success and lifelong learning. As the educational landscape becomes increasingly complex, students must not only master their disciplines but also navigate vast and varied information sources proficiently. Information literacy, defined as the ability to identify, evaluate, utilize, and ethically manage information, is essential for students to engage meaningfully with academic discourse. This study examined the interconnectedness of information literacy and writing skills, emphasizing how they collectively foster critical thinking and effective communication and uphold academic integrity. A survey was conducted with undergraduate students at Ling Tung University of Science and Technology. The research investigates key differences in information literacy competencies between American and Taiwanese college students. It also evaluates how integrating AI tools into research tasks affects students' motivation and confidence in writing. The findings reveal that while Taiwanese participants rely heavily on search engines like Google, they also recognize the value of research tools in enhancing their writing abilities. Notably, the study identifies challenges faced by students, including the difficulties in assessing the credibility of sources and adapting writing to meet disciplinary conventions. Overall, the results underscore the need to incorporate both information literacy and writing skill development into higher education curricula.