Modelling the information seeking and searching behaviour of users with impairments: are existing models applicable?

Abstract

PurposeA substantial number of models have been developed over the years, with the purpose of describing the information seeking and searching of people in various user groups and contexts. Several models have been frequently applied in user studies, but are rarely included in research on participants with impairments. Models are purposeful when developing theories. Consequently, it might be valuable to apply models when studying this user group, as well. The purpose of this study was to explore whether existing models are applicable in describing the online information seeking and searching of users with impairments, with an overall aim to increase the use of models in studies involving impairments.Design/methodology/approachSix models were selected according to the following criteria: the model should address information seeking or searching, include the interaction between users and systems whilst incorporating assistive technology. Two user groups were selected from each of the categories: cognitive, sensory and motor impairments, namely dyslexia, autism, blindness, deafness, paralysation and Parkinson's. The models were then analysed based on known barriers reported for these cohorts.FindingsAll the selected models had potential to be applied in user studies involving impairments. While three of the models had the highest potential to be used in the current form, the other three models were applicable either through minor revisions or by combining models.Originality/valueThis study contributes with a new perspective on the use of models in information seeking and searching research on users with impairments.

Information seeking amongst informal caregivers of people with dementia: a qualitative study

“…Gaps in information provision and consequent failure to have their information needs satisfied were experienced. The process of accruing information was complex and demanding (Berget et al, 2021), with participants describing time-consuming and intellectually and emotionally difficult endeavours to access relevant, timely and appropriate information to fulfil their needs. These findings concur with Bressan et al (2020) and Savolainen (2015).…”

Perilaku Pencarian Informasi Guru Sekolah Dasar Pada Masa Post-Pandemi Covid-19

“…Dalam ilmu perpustakaan sendiri, informasi diartikan berita, peristiwa, data maupun literatur. (Berget et al, 2021) Perilaku pencarian informasi (information searching behavior) merupakan perilaku di tingkat mikro, berupa perilaku mencari yang ditunjuk seseorang ketika berinteraksi dengan sistem informasi. Perilaku ini terdiri atas berbagai bentuk interaksi dengan sistem, baik di tingkat interaksi dengan komputer (misalnya penggunaan mouse atau tindakan mengklik sebuah link), maupun di tingkat intelektual dan mental (misalnya penggunaan strategi Boolean, atau keputusan memilih buku yang paling relevan diantara deretan buku di perpustakaan).…”

The information trust formation process for informal caregivers of people with dementia: a qualitative study

“…The complex setting in which caregivers dwell is reflected in the equally complex process leading to the selection and use of trustworthy information and, as at today, existing models of information seeking behaviour, whether system-centred or user-centred, are not sufficient for describing characteristics specifically connected with the various needs of people, not just in caregiving roles, but in more general terms (Berget et al, 2020). Therefore, a more integrated model taking into account both general and individual aspects of information seeking behaviour with the aim to offer tangible solutions, is required.…”