Understanding Information Literacy Engagement Patterns of Generation Z

Abstract

This study aims to verify the hypothesis that Information Literacy is a key course in the professional development of students. The authors review the obstacles, interests, and goals of students after their completion of the subject in Information Literacy. Quantitative survey-based research was conducted online at Transilvania University of Brasov. The literature was revised by scientometric methods in order to analyse the most relevant and highly cited articles published in Web of Science. Emotion Analysis method was used, since it is a fast method to scan students’ feelings. Students from Generation Z, the digital native nowadays, have remarkable digital skills and use information sources mainly from the digital environment. In this respect, Informational Literacy courses need to keep pace with the mentality and information behaviour of new generations. The hypothesis was thus supported; the students need this course because subjects like Copyright, Search Strategies, and Databases are of interest. Moreover, these informational research skills are important in professional development. This critical evaluation of Generation Z education may interest those studying trends in education and students’ needs.