AnyQuestions.co.nz and information literacy revisited

Abstract

Research problem: The extent to which AnyQuestions.co.nz currently influences the information literacy development of students and in particular, its effectiveness in teaching good search strategy techniques, is investigated.

Methodology: A quantitative approach involving a survey of 107 school children aged between 9 and 13 years who have had experience using AnyQuestions.co.nz. A study commissioned by the Ministry of Education published 8 years earlier provides a benchmark, and Kuhlthau’s ISP model a framework, for the current study.

Results: There has been an increased awareness among AnyQuestions users of the role the service plays in helping develop search skills and improve information seeking behaviour. Satisfaction ratings for the service are substantially higher than they were in 2007 and users report positive learning outcomes. AnyQuestions.co.nz is found to be making a positive contribution to the information literacy of the students who use it.

Implications: Findings indicate that the Ministry of Education should continue to grow the programme as it is a useful educational tool in teaching information literacy to New Zealand children. More research is required to find out how to best increase uptake of the service in schools throughout New Zealand, with particular emphasis on increasing use in the currently under-represented low decile¹ schools.

¹ A decile rating denotes the socio-economic position of a school’s community relative to other communities throughout New Zealand.