Test-out Dates - Fall 2024
FAQs
What is IL 101?
IL 101: Information Literacy is a 1-credit course required for all Bachelor’s degrees at St Ambrose. IL 101 teaches foundational skills and concepts related to information seeking, critical evaluation of sources, and ethical use of information.
What is the test-out?
The test-out is a graded exam designed for students to demonstrate whether they understand the skills and concepts taught in IL 101. Students who pass receive a waiver from the Registrar fulfilling the IL 101 requirement, but do not earn the 1 credit hour.
Who can take the test?
Any currently registered SAU undergraduate who has not taken the test-out before, and has not taken IL 101 at St Ambrose before. If a student has taken a similar course at a previous institution, they should contact their advisor to see if this course fulfills the IL 101 requirement.
What does the test-out involve?
The test-out is an in-person exam taken on Blackboard involving multiple choice and short answer questions. Students have 2 hours to complete the exam.
Can I take the exam at home?
No; the test-out is proctored, so it must be taken in-person during the scheduled times each semester.
How do I sign up?
The Library will email students 1-2 weeks before the test-out times with links to a Google form for registration. Pre-registration is required; we unfortunately cannot accommodate walk-ins.
Do I need to bring anything?
Students should bring a photo ID (Beecard, driver’s license, etc), and a writing utensil.
How can I prepare for the exam?
The test-out is designed to represent the knowledge and skills you will learn in IL 101 over a semester, so there is no particular study guide or resource you can use to prepare. You can however, familiarize yourself with APA or MLA citation styles.
How long until I receive my results?
Students can expect to receive their results by mail within 1-2 weeks. Your results are also sent to the Registrar’s office.
What if I don’t pass?
Students who don’t pass (70%+) the test-out will need to take the IL 101 course to fulfill the requirement. The test-out grade will not appear on your transcript or impact your grade in any way.
What should I do if I’m currently registered for IL 101?
Attend class as normal until you receive your results. Students who pass the test-out will be able to drop the course without penalty.
