16-18 year-olds’ information and digital literacy (2017) - Alterline

Higher Education libraries can develop a more targeted and impactful induction programme based on a better understanding of the specific gaps in the knowledge and skills of new students
Plan for service development using insight into the digital behaviours of the Higher Education students of tomorrow
Inform strategic planning around investment in information and digital literacy skills development with independent information that’s available now
Further Education libraries can better equip students for their studies and prepare them for the next steps in their education by understanding current levels of information and digital literacy.

More about the 16-18 year old information and digital literacy project

This research project was based on the online survey responses of 1,112 16 to 18 year-olds in the UK who were considering applying for, or had applied to, university. Three online focus groups were also conducted with 29 students. The report was completed in July 2017.

It explores the digital preparedness of 16- to 18-year-olds for their academic career at university.

As well as the full research findings, insights and evidence from the primary research project, the full 53-page report includes a review of the existing literature, an executive summary and practical recommendations.

Report contents include:

What the current behaviours are of 16-18 year-olds when searching for, using and managing information
Insight into the digital behaviours and digital lives of potential students
Digital confidence and digital literacy
Young people’s perceptions of what will be expected of them at university and what they expect of the university and the library service in particular

Project partners

This project was developed in partnership with a number of clients who helped to shape the research design through our collaborative Library Futures model. With thanks to: