Understanding Information and Knowledge Concepts

Information and Knowledge

• Information is processed, organized, and meaningful data.
• Data is unprocessed facts and figures.
• Knowledge is understanding and interpretation of information within a broader context.

Types of Knowledge

• Explicit Knowledge: Easily communicated, shared, and documented (e.g., user manuals).
• Implicit Knowledge: Less formalized, often learned through experience, not explicitly taught (e.g., software shortcuts).
• Tacit Knowledge: Deeply personal, hard to formalize. Acquired through personal experience (e.g., craftsperson's techniques).

Information Society

• An information society is driven by creating, distributing, and using information.
• Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are central to this society.
• ICTs, like computers, internet, and mobile devices, enable vast information creation, storage, and retrieval.
• Information becomes a valuable resource.
• Social organization changes; education, jobs, and interactions transform with technology.
• Globalization is facilitated by information exchange across borders.
• The networked society is characterized by strong interconnectedness.
• Work patterns are shifting to flexible arrangements and remote work facilitated by technology.

Digital Divide

• The digital divide gaps exist between different groups with access to technology.
• Access, digital literacy, and affordability are critical aspects of the digital divide.
• Challenges exist in rural areas, low-income communities, and developing nations with affordability as a critical barrier.

Information Literacy

• Information literacy includes recognizing information needs, locating, evaluating, and using information effectively.
• It's crucial for navigating the information landscape effectively.
• It includes identifying information needs, accessing information, evaluating sources critically, using information ethically and legally, and for a specific purpose.

Value and Importance of Information Literacy

• Information literacy enables empowered decision-making, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
• It is vital for lifelong learning, research, and academic/professional success.
• Empowers individuals to combat misinformation, participate in civic life, navigate the constantly changing information landscape, and use information ethically.

Ages of Information

• Oral Age: Information passed orally through generations.
• Manuscript Age: Information recorded physically with writing systems.
• Print Age: Mass production of printed materials made information widely accessible.
• Electronic Age: Information transmission via electronic media like radio and television, establishing the digital age.