Developing research skills : the information literacy connection

In response ·to current developments in the tertiary education sector, the Queensland University of Technology Library has mounted an intensive course - Advanced Information Retrieval Skills - for higher degree students. Academic librarians have long recognised that students need high levels of information literacy both to improve their capacity to function as self -directed learners and to conduct excellent research. Various programmes have been developed in Australia and overseas which seek to introduce information retrieval, management and evaluation skills to graduate students. A rationale for information literacy programmes is outlined and some findings from a survey of QUT Masters candidates and supervisors are briefly discussed