The Role of Skepticism in Information Literacy Ecosystems: An Exploratory Factor Analysis (Poster 26)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Sixteen
  In Poster Session: Instructional Technology SIG Posters

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to provide the conceptual grounding of a skepticism measure appropriate for use in classrooms, and to provide the preliminary validity and reliability evidence for the measure to establish a baseline in the growing realm of information literacy research in educational environments. Specifically, we are targeting middle school and high school students, who constantly navigate digital environments and are presented with the challenge of making decisions about the credibility of information and information sources. Preliminary results show a six-factor structure using the Skepticism Scale: 1) Self-Esteem, 2) Search for Knowledge, 3) Suspension of Judgment, 4) Interpersonal Understanding, 5) Self-Determining, and 6)Questioning Mind. A discussion, limitations, and implications for the information literacy ecosystem is provided.

Authors

• Albert Dieter Ritzhaupt, University of Florida
  Presenting Author

• Xiaoman Wang, University of Florida
  Presenting Author

• Max Sommer, University of Florida
  Presenting Author

• Christine Wusylko, University of Florida
  Presenting Author

• Angela Marie Kohnen, University of Florida
  Presenting Author

• Kara M. Dawson, University of Florida
  Presenting Author