Library Guides: Information and Digital Literacies GLO: Information and Digital Literacies Framework

Integrated Information and Digital Literacies Framework

The Information and Digital Literacies Framework developed by Charles Sturt University Library outlines core competencies, now expanded to include AI Literacy, that support students in developing integrated, real-world capabilities. These competencies are scaffolded across foundation, proficient, and advanced levels to support curriculum design, assessment development, and lifelong learning outcomes.

This framework ensures that graduates are not only skilled in locating, using, and sharing information through digital tools, but are also equipped to engage critically and ethically with emerging technologies, including generative AI. It provides a strong foundation for developing marking criteria, aligning with learning outcomes, and supporting subject-level skill progression.

How to use this framework

Curriculum mapping: Identify when each competency is introduced, reinforced and mastered across a course.
Assessment design: Develop tasks and rubrics aligned with specific competencies at appropriate levels.
Learning support: Collaborate with the Library to embed learning activities and resources aligned with this framework.
Scaffolding: Use the progression levels (foundation > proficient > advanced) to guide student development across a degree.

Competency	Foundation	Proficient	Advanced
Ability to use digital tools Effectively selects and uses appropriate digital tools to locate, filter, retrieve, store, and manage information.	Habitually uses digital tools to take notes, locate information, and organise readings.	Uses digital tools to collaborate, create digital products, and manage information.	Selects and adapts digital tools to solve problems, meet goals, and communicate knowledge.
Ability to identify an information need Identifies and defines the extent and scope of discipline-specific information needed to answer a research question.	Understands the scope of information required; identifies key concepts and keywords.	Identifies existing knowledge and common research methods.	Identifies information gaps and generates new research questions.
Ability to locate relevant information Effectively uses search strategies and appropriate digital tools to find relevant information. Locates primary and secondary sources that are authoritative and relevant to the discipline.	Locates subject readings and relevant digital/non-digital sources.	Refines search strategies and efficiently finds quality resources.	Uses systems and alerts to stay current; accesses data sources and advanced tools.
Ability to evaluate and apply information Interprets and understands information delivered in a range of formats. Critically evaluates the appropriateness information and data. Analyses and synthesises relevant information to support arguments and decisions.	Understands the importance of quality, authoritative sources.	Evaluates sources for reliability and relevance; synthesises information to support arguments.	Critically analyses discipline-specific content to inform decisions and solve problems.
Ability to access, use, and manage information ethically and legally. Understands the ethical and legal principles of research in the digital environment. Gathers, manages, and disseminates information and data ethically, legally, and safely.	Understands citation, copyright, and attribution basics.	Uses technologies to ethically manage and share information.	Curates and repurposes content ethically and responsibly.
Ability to use digital communication tools Uses digital tools and social media to effectively communicate and collaborate with others, and to synthesise, create, integrate, and share information	Contributes to subject forums; understands communication norms.	Collaborates via social media and digital platforms.	Actively contributes to professional networks and creates original content.
Capacity for digital citizenship Consciously develops a positive online identity, and participates in online communities. Understands the implications of the global use of technology in professional, social, and cultural settings.	Demonstrates respectful, safe online behaviour; preserves privacy.	Participates responsibly in online communities.	Cultivates a professional online presence and digital footprint.
Ability to use and evaluate AI tools responsibly Effectively utilises AI tools to enhance learning and problem-solving while critically assessing their outputs for accuracy, bias, and ethical considerations, ensuring transparent and appropriate use in academic and professional contexts. *See AI Literacy: Competencies for details	Recognises what generative AI tools are and how they may be used in learning. Understands basic risks such as hallucinations and bias.	Uses AI tools ethically for tasks such as brainstorming or drafting. Critically reviews AI-generated content and checks sources.	Transparently integrates AI tools into workflows while recognising their limitations and ethical implications. Critically evaluates the role of AI in knowledge creation, bias, and academic integrity.