1. INFO 414 Information Behavior
Models of information behavior

2. Classic IR Model Match Document Document Representation Query
Information
Need
Match

3. Berrypicking
Berrypicking focuses is on the sequence of searcher behaviors
Query is evolving
Searchers may use different search strategies in a single query
Implications for design of information systems

4. Berrypicking Q3 Q5 Q1 T T T T T Q2 Q4 E Q0
T=thought, Q=query variation, E=exit, =documents, information

5. Ellis (1989) – Searching Methods
Starting: Looking for information in a new area on on a new topic.
Chaining: Searching by following citation connections between materials.
Differentiating: Selecting information sources based on their orientation and intended audience.

6. Ellis (1989) – Searching Methods
Monitoring: The continuous monitoring of developments in a field of study
Extracting: Going through a particular source selectively identifying relevant material from that source

7. Ellis (1989) Information-seeking patterns of social scientists
Six characteristics:
Starting
Chaining
Browsing
Differentiating
Monitoring
Extracting

8. Ellis (1989) Behavioral Model of Information Seeking
Diagrammatic presentation suggested by Wilson, 1999

9. Kuhlthau (1991) six stages in the information search process
incorporated in three realms
affective - feelings
cognitive - thoughts
physical - actions

10. Kuhlthau (1991)
Stages
initiation - the first awareness of a lack of knowledge or understanding
selection - identifying the general topic of the approach to be pursued
exploration - investigating information on the general topic, to improve orientation sufficiently to form a focus for resolving the problem

11. Kuhlthau (1991)
formulation - forming a focus for the information encountered
collection - extends and supports the focus and selects information pertaining specifically to the focus
presentation - completing the search and preparing to present or otherwise use the findings

12. Kuhlthau’s model of the information search process
Stages in ISP Feelings Thoughts Actions Appropriate task
common to Common to common to According to Kuhlthau
each stage each stage each stage Model
1. Initiation Uncertainty General Seeking Recognise
Vague Background
Information
2. Selection Optimism Identify
3. Exploration Confusion/ Seeking
Frustration Relevant
4. Formulation Clarity Narrowed/ Formulate
Clearer
5. Collection Sense of Increased Seeking Gather
Direction/ Interest Relevant or
Confidence Focused
6. Presentation Relief/ Clearer or Complete
Satisfaction Focused or
Disappointment