Abstract
Due to the continuing advancement of technology and the increasing use of the Internet and its services, information literacy has become a topic of discussion in countries around the world. Through what can be described as information diplomacy, countries respond to these changes through their education systems, recognizing that information systems and literacy education shape civic culture and public trust. More specifically, countries such as Turkey, South Korea, Ireland, Greece, and the United States have analyzed information-seeking behavior in students at different stages of study to better understand how these behaviors reflect information literacy levels. In this study, existing research on undergraduate students’ informationseeking behavior is examined through a structured literature review and content analysis. The project analyzes how students in prior studies describe their habits, where they find information, who they share it with, and how they evaluate what they read. What patterns appear across studies? Do students believe they are information literate, and does that belief align with demonstrated skills? By analyzing these themes, this study aims to identify gaps between perceived and actual information literacy skills and consider where professors, mentors, and universities can help strengthen those skills. This project serves as a first step toward a future Purdue-focused study that would examine undergraduate students’ information-seeking behaviors locally and apply the findings to instructional practices on campus. Ultimately, this research contributes to conversations about how information literacy education helps develop responsible, well-informed citizens.
Keywords
Information Literacy; Information Seeking Behavior; Information Diplomacy; undergraduate education; Civic Engagement
Date of this Version
4-2026
Recommended Citation
James, Gwenyth Grace, "What does information-seeking behavior tell us about information literacy skills?" (2026). Information Studies Undergraduate Works. Paper 4.
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/is_undergrad_works/4
Accompanying literature review for the project
Comments
Presented as a virtual talk at the 2026 Spring Purdue Undergraduate Research Conference.