Active and reflective learning initiatives to improve web searching skills of business students

Abstract

This article discusses the development and impact of an information literacy (IL) collaborative initiative undertaken by a module leader and library staff at Sheffield Business School (at Sheffield Hallam University) to improve business students' web searching skills, in order to support their academic work and develop the IL skills required by future employers. It considers the use of a range of interactive learning activities in a lecture setting - not the preferred setting for information skills - coupled with a web-based research assessment and student reflection on the development of their web searching skills. Student feedback and reflective practice is reviewed and ways of further developing activities to address student feedback and promote further student engagement are suggested.