Information Literacy in the Workplace: A Case of Scientists from Pakistan

Abstract

Abstract Information literacy is considered an essential competency in the workplace because it gives a competitive advantage, improves decision-making and enhances efficiency as well as effectiveness of the workforce. This study intends to investigate information literacy among scientists working at the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR), Lahore. The data were collected from 121 scientists using a questionnaire, with both descriptive as well as inferential statistics applied for data analysis. The results indicated that a large majority of these scientists never received any formal IL training during their entire career. A large majority of these scientists, in general, perceived IL instructions as important and preferred short-term training programs if offered. In addition, these scientists were confident and competent in using searching tools, multiple printed and electronic information resources, comprehending published research and writing research papers. However, they were less comfortable in interpreting visual information, defining information needs, assessing relevance and quality, synthesizing and evaluating gathered information, using library e-resources, managing citations as well as developing and initiating search strategies. The age, gender, academic qualification, research experience and number of publications appeared as the predictor of IL self-efficacy. There was a critical need for making arrangements regarding IL instruction program for in-service scientists.