Information Competency - English Learning Center (ELC)

About Information Competency?

Information Competency is an AA/AS graduation requirement in effect starting with the 2004-2005 catalog. This requirement is Ohlone's way of ensuring that students know how to locate and use information effectively and ethically in the Internet age. Information Competency incorporates basic computer literacy with research and critical thinking skills.

Information Competency is not required if enrolled prior to Fall 2001. It is also not required of Nursing students starting Fall 2002 or PTA students starting Spring 2003.

Testing Out of the Information Competency Requirement

Students should take the test before their final semester in case they do not pass and have to enroll in one of the required classses.

The Information Competency Proficiency Examination consists of 33 multiple-choice questions. Each question is worth one point. You will need a total score of at least 23 points to pass the exam. The examination is not repeatable.

The questions on the examination focus on basic research and critical thinking skills. Some of the research skills questions require familiarity with bibliographic citation styles such as MLA (Modern Language Association) or APA (American Psychological Association). Some questions will focus on basic electronic finding tools such as the library's catalog as well as the Internet and web browsers such as Netscape or Internet Explorer.

Information Competency Test Procedures

• Fill out the online request form to take the ICT.
• An ELC staff member will call you to schedule an appointment once your test and account are complete.
• All students must show photo ID to lab proctor before taking the test.
• There is no charge for test.
• Each test is 90 minutes, timed, with a set number of questions.
• Students need to have a passing grade of 70% or higher.
• No retests are allowed.

Questions?

If you have questions about the information competency test, please contact:

• Ingrid Granados-Thomas
  (510) 659-6087
  igranados-thomas@ohlone.edu
  Location: English Learning Center, Hyman Hall, Room HH-217, Fremont campus

Waivers and Substitutions for the Information Competency Requirement

Please contact:

• K.G. Greenstein
  Ohlone College Library
  (510) 979-7580
  kgreenstein@ohlone.edu
  Location: Building 1, Room 1314 (inside the Library), Fremont campus

Course Options for Information Competency

Students must successfully complete one of the following:

• LS-101 Steps to Successful Research, 1 unit, online class, CR
• CS/LS-151 Internet for Research, .5 unit, CR
• CAOT-153 Introduction to Internet, 1 unit, GC