Reviews the sense-making theory of Brenda Dervin, which is based on constructivist theories of information seeking and information use. Topics discussed include epistemic interests of the theory; sense-making theory in the social science context; and practical interests of the theory, including interviewing techniques used in the…

Presents results from study of mathematical models (Cobb-Douglas model, mixture of Poissons, inverse effects of distance, weighted entropy) relating to usage of information systems, and notes papers developed during study which provide three types of analysis--literature reviews, analytical studies, and tests of models. Six references are…

Discusses two models of selecting information sources--Cost/Benefit (information seekers select sources on basis of expected benefits and costs), and Least-Effort (seekers select sources on basis of minimizing effort or cost). Results of a study proposing that users place different weights on costs and benefits are presented. (EJS)