Event Registration - Northeast Ohio Regional Library System
AI & Information Literacy: Building Critical Evaluation Skills for Generative AI Competency: Innovation and Reference 03/10/26 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM This webinar explores the crucial intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and information literacy, addressing the transformative impact of AI on how information is accessed, evaluated, and utilized. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of how Generative AI (GenAI) tools function, including their capabilities and limitations in the context of information seeking and research. The session will delve into the integration of web search functionalities within AI tools and the implications of platforms like SearchGPT and advanced research tools on traditional information literacy practices.
A key focus will be on developing critical thinking skills to assess AI outputs effectively. Attendees will learn practical strategies, including the SIFT (Stop, Investigate the source, Find trusted coverage, Trace claims to the original context) method, to combat misinformation and evaluate the credibility of AI-generated content. The webinar will address the challenges posed by AI-driven misinformation and disinformation, equipping participants with the tools to navigate the evolving information landscape responsibly.
The session will also explore the broader implications of AI on information literacy, including ethical considerations, bias detection, and the responsible use of AI in research and education. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, participants will learn how to adapt their information literacy instruction and practices to meet the demands of the AI era. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for fostering critical engagement with AI tools and promoting informed decision-making in an increasingly complex information environment.
Learning Objectives:
Understand how GenAI tools work and their impact on information literacy.
Apply critical thinking skills to evaluate AI outputs and identify misinformation.
Utilize the SIFT method for assessing the credibility of sources in the age of AI.
Assess the implications of SearchGPT and deep research tools on information literacy practices.
Adapt information literacy instruction to promote responsible AI usage.
Presenter:
Reed Hepler is a digital initiatives librarian, instructional designer, copyright agent, artificial intelligence practitioner and consultant, and PhD student at Idaho State University. He earned a Master's Degree in Instructional Design and Educational Technology from Idaho State University in 2025. In 2022, he obtained a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science, with emphases in Archives Management and Digital Curation from Indiana University. He has worked at nonprofits, corporations, and educational institutions encouraging information literacy and effective education. Combining all of these degrees and experiences, Reed strives to promote ethical librarianship and educational initiatives.
Currently, Reed works as a Digital Initiatives Librarian at a college in Idaho and also has his own consulting firm, heplerconsulting.com. His views and projects can be seen on his LinkedIn page or his blog, CollaborAItion, on Substack. Contact him at reed.hepler@gmail.com for more information.
Reed Hepler is a digital initiatives librarian, instructional designer, copyright agent, artificial intelligence practitioner and consultant, and PhD student at Idaho State University. He earned a Master's Degree in Instructional Design and Educational Technology from Idaho State University in 2025. In 2022, he obtained a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science, with emphases in Archives Management and Digital Curation from Indiana University. He has worked at nonprofits, corporations, and educational institutions encouraging information literacy and effective education. Combining all of these degrees and experiences, Reed strives to promote ethical librarianship and educational initiatives.