Developing multiple literacies for BSc Information Management students

Abstract

This study examines the development of information, computer software, and Web 2.0 literacies among undergraduate students at the University of Hong Kong. A survey was administered to students undertaking the Bachelor of Science in Information Management three times: on entry, in the middle, and towards the completion of the program. It assessed their self-reported literacy levels and their perceptions of familiarity with and the importance of the three literacies. Preliminary findings indicated that students had improved in all three forms of literacy at the end of the two academic years. Moreover, positive associations were found between their familiarity with each literacy, and their perceptions of its importance. Mastering multiple literacies fosters life-long learning by enabling students to search for information effectively and use applications such as Web 2.0 tools and computer software to present their ideas in academic activities and ultimately in the workplace. Accordingly, the study has implications for educators and librarians working to develop multiple literacies among Hong Kong university students.