Definition of Information SeekingThe process of discovering information that meets an information need.
Information seeking is a basic academic, business and personal process that looks for information that is required for learning, analysis, critique, strategy formation, problem solving, decision making or planning. It can also be pursued out of curiosity and interest. The following are common examples of information seeking.
Archival Research
The use of historical archives. Such archives are maintained by governments, universities, libraries, museums, corporations and collectors. For example, a collector of rare old magazines that may have captured information about a historical event you're researching.Content Analysis
The methodical interpretation of information sources such as written texts, images, audio and video. For example, reviewing the comments made by a CEO at an industry conference to look for clues as to how well business is going. This could include looking at the actual video to look for the emotion or emphasis behind each word.Contextual Seeking
Looking for information that applies to a particular context such as an event, location, person, organization, topic or issue. For example, a lawyer who looks through historical cases to look for a precedent that may apply to their case.Data Collection
Seeking out data that you require and potentially combining data from different sources. For example, a structural engineer who looks up the compressive strength of a particular material and who then seeks to confirm this with the actual manufacturer of the material.Database Queries
The use of powerful database query tools and languages such as Structured Query Language (SQL). These are generally far more powerful than typically digital search tools whereby you can seek out database records with great precision. For example, a query for all green station wagons registered in the state of Maine between 1980 and 1984.Digital Search
The use of digital search tools such as web search or a tool to search research publications. For example, using an online repository of academic papers to search for the effect of microplastics on health.Document Review
Reviewing documents such as academic papers, organizational reports, public records, white papers, books and digital media such as blogs. For example, reading the earnings releases of a firm to look for information for a swot analysis of the company.Expert Consultation
Asking an expert in a particular domain. For example, if you have an unconventional plan for renovating your house you might consult with a structural engineer to see if it would be a sound idea that is compliant with your local building codes.Exploratory Seeking
Seeking out information without a very broad goal in mind and no specific information needs. For example, a student in high school who starts broadly researching careers in order to find a few of interest.Feedback
Seeking feedback from those who may have information you need. For example, asking customers who returned a product for feedback as to why they returned it.Information Needs Analysis
The process of identifying what you need to know. This is typically the beginning step of information seeking and can also be revisited as you progress. For example, a student who wants to be an engineer who lists a few things they need to research to begin on this journey such as the admissions requirements of university engineering programs.Known-Item Seeking
Seeking out particular information items that you know exist such as looking for the manual for a power tool that you think might be broken.Literature Review
The process of reviewing all the major information sources that are relevant to a specific topic or question of interest. This is a systematic and comprehensive process whereby you examine the current state of knowledge for a particular topic. For example, gathering the most influential biographies of Abraham Lincoln and reading each one to compare and contrast them.Media Sources
Compiling and reviewing media sources on a topic such as blog posts, videos, images and social media posts. For example, looking through cutting edge fashion blogs, vlogs and social media posts to compile a list of fashion trends for a season.Social Seeking
Getting information from other people. For example, asking other students what happened in classes you missed and for a copy of their notes.Information Seeking Behavior
Information seeking is a basic element of human behavior whereby we are constantly foraging for information. For example, we seek out information as word of mouth in conversation with others. Likewise, people commonly engage with information sources such as television, news, social media, vlogs and blogs for extended periods of time. People commonly assess information according to three methods (Kelly, 2021):- Is it useful in directing action?
- How it will make them feel?
- Does it relate to concepts they think of often?
