How do people use information from others to solve complex problems? Prior work has addressed this question by placing people in social learning situations where the problems they were asked to solve required varying degrees of exploration. This past work uncovered important interactions between groups' "connectivity" and the problem's…

Modern large-scale studies such as the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) do not only report reading competence of students on a global reading scale but also report reading on the level of reading subskills. However, the number of and the dependencies between the subskills are frequently discussed. In this study, different…

This survey-based study examined the information-seeking behaviour of traditional medical practitioners using Taylor's information use model. Respondents comprised all 160 traditional medical practitioners that treat sickle cell anaemia. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered, structured questionnaire. Frequency and percentage…

Proposes a management-oriented model for describing and studying information behavior and details the testing of the resulting hypotheses through the use of a database describing the information-related attitudes and behaviors of 560 scientists and engineers. (FM)

Introduction: The purpose of this research is to assess information behaviour as it pertains to operational teams in dynamic safety critical operations. Method: In this paper, I describe some of the problems faced by crews on modern flight decks and suggest a framework modelled on Information Science, Human Factors, and Activity Theory research to…

A descriptive model of how scientists and engineers search for and obtain information directly from their colleagues is outlined. The model emphasizes (and case studies illustrate) three decisions which users make in such searches: (a) whether to store the information need in hopes of an accidental or working encounter, (b) whether to satisfy the…

This review of the literature examines the relationship of information needs and uses and explores some of the factors that influence the relationship. The paper begins with a review of ways that the terms "information and information need" and "information use" have been defined in the literature. It then identifies and discusses three approaches…

Introduction: Explores the complexity of online information use for learning in the culturally-diverse, information and communication technologies-intensive, higher education context. It presents a Model of responses and influences in online information use for learning, which aims to increase awareness of the complexity of online information use…

Describes how reference-based instruction can be incorporated into an instructional system design. Provides specific examples of learning objectives and student exercises. Defines reference-based instruction and outlines its benefits. Lists guidelines for how to structure usability tests for Help systems. Advises how technical communicators can…

Discusses how one-on-one interaction between teacher-librarians and students can turn library research projects into positive experiences in which students use a process of constructing knowledge for themselves rather than reproducing knowledge they find in information sources. A model of thinking during information use is presented. (Author/LRW)

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)

Describes a study conducted at the University of Oklahoma that assessed information-seeking, evaluating, and usage abilities before, during and after an upper-level science course. Explains the bibliographic instruction offered during class, and proposes a model for incorporating information literacy into upper-level science courses and an…

Intended for use by both teachers and teacher-librarians, this guide for teaching library and information skills presents a five-step model for the research process: (1) planning the research project; (2) searching for relevant information; (3) selecting and evaluating the information found as it relates to the project; (4) presenting the results;…

The method most organizations use in processing information to carry on their management goals are inadequate for the modern world. A convergence of theoretical and empirical work can create new ways of thinking about management. Four areas which can help to achieve better organizational procedures need concentrated study: new conceptual tools…

Based on a North Carolina feasibility study (1967-73) which focused on development of a pattern for providing comprehensive mental health services to rural people, this guide deals with measuring and monitoring stress in the community. Emphasizing the "proactive" efforts developed in a stress model for Vance and Franklin counties, this…