Learning from web information seeking studies: some suggestions for LIS practitioners

Abstract

Purpose To explore the value of web information‐seeking studies for practice, and to bring selected research findings and their potential to the attention of library and information science (LIS) practitioners. Design/methodology/approach Based on a selective literature review of web information‐seeking studies to highlight findings considered most relevant to LIS practitioners. A fairly extensive, but not exhaustive, list of sources was identified. Reasons for the gap between web information‐seeking theory in the form of research reports and LIS praxis are briefly considered. Findings The value of web information‐seeking studies is limited to theoretical and methodological growth if they do not also affect practice. Suggestions are offered on a selection of aspects of how LIS practitioners can incorporate findings from web information‐seeking studies. These include improved self‐knowledge and self‐efficacy of practitioners and users, adapted approaches to information literacy and user empowerment programmes, improved access to the full spectrum of the information infrastructure, a stronger emphasis on the link between information‐seeking and information use and knowledge generation, and involvement in pragmatic small‐scale research. Research limitations/implications Although the scope of findings discussed is limited to a selection considered most important by the author, this could be supplemented by further reviews to allow for new findings and insights into practical implications. Practical implications Should stimulate LIS practitioners' interest in the results of web information‐seeking studies and their value for praxis. Originality/value Although all research papers are concluded with recommendations etc., a similar literature review with specific guidelines for practitioners has not been published in the LIS subject literature.

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