A research case study for user-centred information literacy instruction: information behaviour of translation trainees

From the vantage point of user studies and information literacy studies, an empirical case-study has been carried out (at the Universitat Jaume I, Castellon, Spain) in order to establish a diagnosis of the information behaviour of translation students. It is hoped that this study will serve as a basis for the design and subsequent implementation of programmes of instruction (within the paradigm of information literacy) specific to this interdisciplinary field. The study is located within the qualitative paradigm (using techniques including expert panel and semi-structured questionnaires to obtain direct data from the student body). Also employed are quantitative techniques for the descriptive statistical treatment of the data collected via the questionnaire, but at all events the perspective of the analysis is qualitative. All in all, a positive evolution is identified within the student group (from first to second cycle) as regards the successful acquisition of information skills. The study highlights the progress registered by the translation students in their information competence and the resultant conceptualization: a development from knowledge towards strategy and lifelong learning.