Developing an evidence-based practice healthcare lens for the SCONUL Seven Pillars of Information Literacy model

Abstract

The SCONUL Seven Pillars of Information Literacy model was revised in 2011 to reflect the interpretation of information literacy in today’s environment. Subsequently, a number of lenses have been developed to adapt the core model to different contexts and user groups. This study develops a lens that aims to reflect the unique information landscape and needs of evidence based practice (EBP) in healthcare. Healthcare professionals across medicine, nursing and allied health disciplines were interviewed to explore their understanding and awareness of the clinical information seeking process and behaviours. This information was then used to construct an EBP lens using familiar healthcare terminology and concepts. Health Science librarians can use this lens as a framework to inform the design and structure of information literacy programmes for clinical staff. Further insight may also be gained by measuring the impact and effectiveness of the lens on information literacy levels and practice at a local level.