Skip to Main Content

Faculty Guide to Information Literacy Resources

Guide for faculty

Information Creation as a Process

Students may struggle with understanding the different types of information resources:

The frame Information Creation as a Process may help students who have questions such as:

  • What types of information are there?
  • What types and formats are appropriate for my project?

Types and Formats of information resources to consider:

Types of Information:

  • primary sources
  • secondary sources
  • tertiary sources
  • original data sets
  • qualitative information
  • quantitative information

Sources or Formats of Information:

  • monographs
  • books
  • reference works
  • periodical articles
  • peer-reviewed articles
  • trade articles
  • news
  • popular and sensational works
  • archival materials
  • conference proceedings
  • expert interviews
  • grey literature
  • media, images, videos

A Note:

Many instructors default to requiring students to find only peer-reviewed scholarly articles. Forsyth Library encourages you to reflect on this requirement and if it fits the needs of your assignment and discipline. In some cases, sources such as basic reference information, primary source artifacts, or public opinion may best fit the information need. A source's authority depends on multiple factors unique to the context of the need, not just on the traditional peer-reviewed model. If peer-reviewed journal articles are required, ensure your students understand the purpose of the peer review process in your discipline. Contact your Forsyth Library Liaison to consult about what required sources fit your assignment best

More Resources

Find more activities, lessons, and tutorials at: