In this presentation Lori Townsend will discuss the origins of the threshold concepts theory, how they work, and examples of possible threshold concepts for information literacy.

Threshold concepts have emerged as a popular, if sometimes contentious, model for teaching and learning. The recently approved ACRL Framework for Information Literacy was inspired by threshold concepts and encourages a conceptual approach to information literacy instruction. In this presentation I will discuss the origins of the threshold concepts theory, how they work, and examples of possible threshold concepts for information literacy. I will also explore approaches to threshold concepts in the liberal arts more broadly along with recent debates about threshold concepts in the library world.