Analysis of multiple query reformulations on the web: The interactive information retrieval context

Abstract

This study examines the facets and patterns of multiple Web query reformulations with a focus on reformulation sequences. Based on IR interaction models, it was presumed that query reformulation is the product of the interaction between user and IR system. Query reformulation also reflects the interplay between the surface and deeper levels of user interaction. Query logs were collected from a Web search engine through the selection of search sessions in which users submitted six or more unique queries per session. The final data set was composed of 313 search sessions. Three facets of query reformulation (content, format, and resource) as well as nine sub-facets were derived from the data. In addition, analysis of modification sequences identified eight distinct patterns: specified, generalized, parallel, building-block, dynamic, multi-tasking, recurrent, and format reformulation. Adapting Saracevic's stratified model, the authors develop a model of Web query reformulation based on the results of the study. The implications for Web search engine design are finally discussed and the functions of an interactive reformulation tool suggested.

Regional Effects on Query Reformulation Patterns

“…Ignoring the results for New, overall the most common query reformulation is Parallel (20.4%), Revision (18.9%), Specialization (17.6%), Back (12%) and Generalization (9%). The results are similar to previous findings where results showed that parallel is the most common form of reformulation and specializa- tions are performed more often than generalizations [2]. In this dataset we observe a high proportion of revision reformulations.…”

“…Approaches to study reformulations are typically based on manually analyzing the transitions between query pairs in a session [2,6]. Alternatively, automatic techniques have also been used to learn types of query reformulation [5].…”

“…In this paper we focus on whether users searching from different countries exhibit different search patterns, in particular when reformulating queries. Query reformulation is a common part of users' information retrieval behavior [2] whereby search queries are adapted until the user fulfills their information need, or they abandon their search. Although query reformulation has been extensively studied, there has been little investigation into the effects of regional variances on query reformulation, even though users' demographics, such as their cultural background and language abilities are known to affect their searching behavior [3,4].…”

A Study on the Relationship between Perceived Usefulness and Satisfaction with Query Reformulation Tools

“…Belkin et al (2001), in a research entitled "Interactive exploration, design and evaluation of support for query reformulation in interactive information retrieval, report on the developed search tools for supporting interactive query reformulation in interactive (TREC) investigation task. Rieh and Xie (2006) in their research entitled "Analysis of Multiple query Reformulation on the Web: the interactive information retrieval context" stated that the purpose of their study was to explore various aspects and patterns of web query reformulation with an emphasis on query sequence. It was used to design search motor of the web and is the performances of an interactive reformulation tool.…”

“…In simple words, query reformulation is a process in which by the cooperation of the user and system, the revision and rearrangement of initial query is done manually so that the user can get to optimum results. In the interactional models of information retrieval, it is assumed that query reformulation is the product of interaction between a user and information retrieval system, which reflects the mutual effect between general and deep layers of a user's interaction (Rieh and Xie, 2006).…”