Tree Octopus

Due to the lack of technology available in schools (check the LOTI survey for support of this assertion), information literacy may not be taught. In fact, information literacy is seldom taught explicitly as we seek to prepare students. Information literacy instruction WITHOUT the Internet is like asking students to learn how to swim without jumping into the water of a pool.

Consider this research excerpt:

When researchers in the Neag School of Education asked 25 seventh-graders from middle schools across the state to review a web site devoted to a fictitious endangered species, the Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus, the results troubled them:

-All 25 students fell for the Internet hoax;

-All but one of the 25 rated the site as “very credible;”

-Most struggled when asked to produce proof – or even clues – that the web site was false, even after the UConn researchers told them it was; and

-Some of the students still insisted vehemently that the Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus really exists.
The students – identified as their schools' most proficient online readers – are taking part in a federal research project, funded by a $1.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
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Information literacy is a core component of the required Technology Applications Curriculum. Review the expectations at...

Grades K-2: Students are expected to...

• TA:TEKS 6(B) determine the usefulness and appropriateness of digital information.
  

Grades 3-5: Students are expected to...

• (A) Apply critical analysis to resolve information conflicts and validate information

Grades 6-8: Students are expected to...

• (A) Determine and employ methods to evaluate the electronic information for accuracy and validity;
• (B) Resolve information conflicts and validate information through accessing, researching, and comparing data; and
• (C) Demonstrate the ability to identify the source, location, media type, relevancy, and content validity of available information.

One useful information problem-solving strategy to use is the Big6. Find out more.