Fighting an uphill battle: teaching information literacy in Danish institutions of higher education

Abstract

The article addresses the development and present state of information literacy activities in Danish institutions of higher education. It outlines the national policy on information literacy, emphasising the crucial role of the Danish Electronic Research Library (DEF). The importance of integrating information literacy sessions into the curriculum is highlighted together with an examination of the barriers that make integration difficult. Strategic alliances and new forms of liaison schemes are presented followed by a description of learning resource centres and Web‐based tutorials and e‐learning activities. The important role of professional groups in setting the agenda for information literacy discussions and knowledge sharing is recognised; and finally, the paper outlines the various educational opportunities open to library school students and academic librarians engaged in teaching information literacy.