Provides an introduction to and analysis of hermeneutics as an alternative research method for library and information science, discussing its philosophical advantages over quantitative research. The triadic process of interpretation is described as particularly suitable for advancing the theoretical foundations of library and information science.…

Examines library and information science journal literature coverage by four major indexing and abstracting services: "Information Science Abstracts,""Library and Information Science Abstracts,""Abstract Journal: Informatics,""Library Literature." Current state of indexing coverage is compared with…

Analyzes and characterizes issues and trends in library and information science research published in 91 English-language journals in 1984. Data presented in tables include: (1) broad subject areas; (2) subdivisions of applied subject category; (3) library types; (4) research methods; and (5) research method percentages for given years. (MES)

Presents conceptual framework for library and information science research and analyzes research methodology that has application for information science, using as example results of study conducted by authors. Rationale for use of qualitative research methods in theory building is discussed and qualitative and quantitative research methods are…

Reviews the use of propositional analysis in library and information science research. Evidence that different analysts produce similar judgments about texts and use the method consistently over time is presented, and it is concluded that propositional analysis is a reliable and valid research method. An example of an analysis is appended. (32…

Examines the application of the Fishbein and Ajzen model of attitude-behavior consistency to research in library and information science (LIS). The components of the model are explained, two examples of LIS research are presented, and there is a brief review of areas in LIS that could benefit from attitude-behavior consistency research. (Contains…

A study surveying researchers about the attributes, function, and form of research study problem statements shows disagreement regarding purpose, content, and form. It is suggested that problem statements are essential for well-focused, manageable studies and must present a study's significance and contribution to knowledge. (21 references) (EA)

This study examines and compares the purpose, content, and form of the problem statement by researchers in disciplines other than library and information science (LIS). Their assessments of the attributes of a problem statement were compared to the literature and an evaluation of problem statements evidenced by researchers within LIS. (Contains 16…

Describes discourse analysis as practiced by Michel Foucault and his followers as a research method in library and information science. The method is introduced, some examples of its use are suggested, and several research questions are posed. The method permits analysis of the ways information, its uses, and its users are discursively…

Reviews the literature on qualitative methods in information retrieval research. Qualitative research is shown to be noncontrolling, holistic and case oriented, about processes, open and flexible, diverse in methods, humanistic, inductive, and scientific. Relevance to library and information science and sources of information on qualitative…

Discussion of the value of diffusion of innovation theory for predicting the implementation of end-user online searching highlights a study of Canadian health professionals who were early adopters of end-user searching. User perceptions are emphasized, and the use of diffusion of innovation theory in information science research is recommended.…

Describes British Library's work on Systems Dynamics, a set of techniques for building simulation models based on analysis of information feedback loops. Highlights include macro-simulation modelling activities of social science disciplines, systems analyses and models of information retrieval processes and library services, policy models, and…