An investigation of the basis for external information search in recreation and tourism

Abstract

This study examines the proposal that those seeking information about recreation experiences have strong interest, attitudes and intentions toward participation but are constrained by inadequate knowledge. Tests are also made of whether or not basic cognitive characteristics are related to information search. Information seeking is defined by whether or not individuals requested a free brochure on charterboating when given the opportunity. Comparisons are made among four groups: inexperienced boaters/information seekers, experienced boaters/information seekers, inexperienced boaters/nonseekers and experienced boaters/nonseekers. Results indicate that inexperienced boaters who seek information have positive attitudes, strong interest and high participation intentions but lack the degree of knowledge possessed by experienced boaters. Similar to experienced nonseekers, experienced seekers had positive attitudes, strong interest, and high knowledge about charterboating. However, they had stronger participation intentions than any group. In other tests, no differences were found among the seeker groups and the inexperienced nonseekers on need for cognition or education levels. Results suggest that constraint reduction is likely to be the basis for information search among the inexperienced. While the unavailability of information may not constrain experienced seekers, this group may be seeking information to add small increments of knowledge (which don't have a large impact on overall knowledge levels), reaffirm existing knowledge or because it is part of the recreation experience. Implications suggest the possible advantages of targeting information seekers in mass communication campaigns and incorporating concepts of information search in related recreation research.

Cultural tourism in Istanbul: The mediation effect of tourist experience and satisfaction on the relationship between involvement and recommendation intention

“…Within a recreational setting, involvement is defined as 'the state of identification existing between an individual and a recreational activity, at one point in time, characterized by some level of enjoyment and self-expression being achieved through the activity' (Selin & Howard, 1988, p. 237). From the perspective of leisure and tourism, involvement is defined as the degree of interest in an activity and the affective response associated with that interest (Manfredo, 1989). In this study, Goldsmith and Emmert's (1991) definition is preferred for the conceptualization of visitor's involvement.…”

The impact of using non-media information sources on the future use of mass media information sources: The mediating role of expectations fulfillment

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The role of VGI and PGI in supporting outdoor activities

“…The importance of personal experience is highlighted by Manfredo (1989) who commented that individuals seeking information about recreation experiences are influenced by their past knowledge, interest and attitudes. Consequently, the use of internal (personal experience) / external (VGI and PGI) information sources may be seen as fundamental differences in the information-seeking behaviours of individuals within a task context.…”