Information literacy is a broad concept that is closely related to information hygiene. Today, we not only have access to an enormous amount of information – literally at our fingertips – but we are also often overwhelmed by a constant flow of it.
Access to information is one thing; being able to find relevant information, evaluate its quality, and use it correctly (literature search) is another. If we accept information uncritically, it can gradually distort our perception of reality, which in some cases may have far-reaching consequences.
Whenever we use information in our work, we must cite the source. This is not only a legal requirement but also a matter of professional and ethical responsibility. Indicating the source—and any limitations of the information used—can even be our “lifeline” if it later turns out to be inaccurate.
To be able to evaluate sources properly, we need time to think. This means not only limiting the intake of unnecessary or distracting information but also setting aside time without digital technologies (information hygiene).