In today’s information-saturated world, the ability to find and evaluate information is crucial. It is very likely that students have engaged in information searches at some level during their previous studies. At the university, however, a big step forward is taken towards scientific information since students start using scientific information databases in a more systematised way. To conclude, information searches should become more and more targeted at this stage of the studies.

In this regard, the e-course “Library and Information Skills” was developed in the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMU). The aim of this e-course is to introduce library’s sources and services to EMU international students and assist them in developing the basic information searching and management skills. This course is 100% web-based and it consists of five modules (I Introduction, II How to search? III Where to search? IV Writing, V Conclusion). 

In addition to searching for information, the focus should also be on referring to the information found. Therefore, the current lesson deals with the Module IV Writing. It is one crucial part of academic writing, especially when avoiding plagiarism. It is important that students consciously start to use the guidelines for writing and formatting documents by the university from the beginning of their studies. The referencing system, as the essential toolbox on the way to academic writing, is also a part of this document. In this module, students can apply all the knowledge acquired in previous modules.

The lesson is structured using AGILE elements (e.g. NON-Violent communication, Liberating Structures, Working Agreement, Definition of Done, LEGO Serious Play®, Team Retrospective). With small adaptations, the lesson can also be used in other schools and universities. If the learners have previous knowledge of information search, this lesson does not have to be part of a larger library and information search course. It can be used independently if the aim is to focus specifically on learning the referencing system and formatting the document according to the institution’s guidelines. 

NOTE: This lesson was created by Karin Naruskov