Explains the conceptual framework of gratification theory and describes a study that investigated the information-seeking behaviors of a lower working class population. The usefulness of gratification theory in explaining their information-seeking behavior is discussed, and implications for librarians and other information professionals are…

Presents different aspects of library and information science (LIS) from a theoretical and philosophical perspective. Topics include attitudes toward LIS; knowledge production versus knowledge utilization; specialists versus generalists; institutional affiliations; technology-driven paradigms; theoretical models; related disciplines; and research…

Describes the Royal School of Library and Information Science (Denmark), whose faculty has conducted research in library and information science since the early 1980s. Discusses the school's size and objectives, and explains that articles included in this issue present different facets of information science in an international context. (LRW)

Analyzes the development of LIS (library and information science) research in Denmark since 1985, when research became one of the main activities of the Royal School of Library and Information Science. Outlines the development of the school from a professional school to a university institution, including political, economic, and professional…

Uses a case study from information-seeking studies to analyze theory growth in information science, differentiating three contexts: unit theories, theoretical research programs, and metatheories. Illustrates the usefulness of tools in the analysis of theory growth by reconstructing a theory used in current information-seeking study. Includes a…

Explores seven ethnic professional library associations to understand their origins and roles among the professional associations in library and information science. The ALA Ethnic Materials and Information Exchange Round Table and the ALA Office for Literacy and Outreach Services are considered in connection with the ethnic American library…

A four-level informatics curriculum at Case Western Reserve University's nursing school integrates information, technology, and the clinical care process. A longitudinal study of 182 students who completed the curriculum showed that computer attitudes changed over time and students became more realistic about the use of information technology for…

Proposes a theory of information poverty based on four concepts that serve as the basis for defining an impoverished life-world: risk taking, secrecy, deception, and situational relevance. A conceptual framework that links the world of the information-poor, the outsiders, with a world of insiders, is developed. Contains 64 references. (Author/LRW)

The essence of Scientomatics is precise measurement. Yet the measurements made in Scientometric research are steeped in ambiguity. This article explores the nature of ambiguity in measurement, probes for mechanisms that allow regularities to be discovered in an environment in which ambiguity is pronounced, and describes Lotka's law (often used to…

Presents a brief sketch of A.J. (Jack) Meadows's career. Notes that he has written many significant articles and books in information science and related fields, many of them of seminal importance. Highlights his contributions to the field and to the many people who have worked with him. (AEF)

Considers whether information science has a theory of information. Highlights include guides to information and its theory; constructivism; information outside information science; process theories; cognitive views of information; measuring information; meaning; and misinformation. (Contains 89 references.) (LRW)

Presents the semantic information theory, formulated by the philosopher Fred Dretske, as a contribution to the discussion of metatheories and their practical implications in library and information science. Highlights include mathematical communication theory; digitization, perception, cognition, and concept formation; information and knowledge;…

Presents skeptical views of the heavy reliance on the Web that sometimes occurs in higher education. Discusses information versus knowledge; the influence of the Internet on interpersonal relationships; the structure of the Internet and procedures of intellectual thought; the non-linearity of hypertext; and encouraging students to investigate the…

In this article, Brian L. Hawkins, President of EDUCAUSE, interviews Clifford A. Lynch, Executive Director of the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI), and the recipient of the 2005 EDUCAUSE Award for Leadership in Public Policy and Practice, about, among other things, the current CNI initiatives, digital assets preservation, e-science,…

The use of technology in social work practice has risen dramatically over the past 10 years. Clinical interventions such as psychotherapy using telephones, interactive video, and the Internet are gaining in popularity. For a discipline traditionally tied to face-to-face interaction, many concerns about moving to technology-based practices have…