The digital reference research agenda

Abstract

A research agenda for the study of digital reference is presented. The agenda stems from a research symposium held at Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts in August 2002. The agenda defines digital reference as "the use of human intermediation to answer questions in a digital environment." The agenda also proposes the central research question in digital reference: "How can human expertise be effectively and efficiently incorporated into information systems to answer user questions?" The definition and question are used to outline a research agenda centered on how the exploration of digital reference relates to other fields of inquiry.

“Are We Getting Warmer?”

“…3 Lankes articulates important assumptions and central issues for a research framework that need to be addressed to advance the field' s understanding of VRS as emerging phenomena. 4 He posits that human expertise is useful to incorporate into information systems, which Curry calls "the human touch." 5 In addition, Lankes believes that the digital nature of reference systems provides a significant differentiating context from FtF reference.…”

“…4 He posits that human expertise is useful to incorporate into information systems, which Curry calls "the human touch." 5 In addition, Lankes believes that the digital nature of reference systems provides a significant differentiating context from FtF reference. 6 Several authors have made a strong case for the need for query clarification and conducting reference interviews in VRS encounters, but little is known about current practice beyond sporadic data collected at the local level.…”

“…5 In addition, Lankes believes that the digital nature of reference systems provides a significant differentiating context from FtF reference. 6 Several authors have made a strong case for the need for query clarification and conducting reference interviews in VRS encounters, but little is known about current practice beyond sporadic data collected at the local level. 7 What is the frequency and nature of query clarification in VRS?…”

Prioritisation, Resources and Search Terms: A Study of Decision-Making at the Virtual Reference Desk

“…Virtual reference (also referred to as digital reference) involves the use of software and the internet to facilitate human intermediation at a distance [10]. Question negotiation in this setting poses new challenges, as well as new opportunities.…”

“…Digital reference is a distinct and growing practice [10] with several initiatives in providing platforms and applications for digital reference having taken place in recent years. These include RefTracker [11] and QuestionPoint [12].…”