Information seeking in context: User oriented interactions

1. Information seeking in context: User oriented interactions An article critique by Bonnie MacGregor Libr 285 spring 2010 Mansourian, Y., Ford, N., Webber, S., & Madden, A. (2008). An integrated model of “information visibility” and information seeking on the web. The Electronic Library and Information Systems, 42(4), 402-417 Mansourian, Y. (2008). Contextualization of web searching: A grounded theory approach. The Electronic Library and Information Systems, 26(2), 202-214

2. The RQ The study is set in a grounded theory framework using an inductive approach to study the attitudes and behaviors of users in an information seeking environment on the web. By exploring user’s interactions with web -based search tools and resources and examining their feelings, thoughts, and actions after receiving unsatisfactory search results, the study seeks to address the research question : “What components form the ‘context’ of a search query, and how does each component play a role in the final outcome of a search session?”

3. Literature Review This study defines context based on Johnson’s CONTINGENCY definition Table I. Comparing three senses of context

4. Sampling Design & Data Collection

5. Data Analysis & Conclusions More subcategories were identified for each major element

6. Understanding Qualitative Research Methods Importance of defining variables and describing data collection One-on-one interviews assist a social researcher to observe not necessarily assess or survey social phenomena, but rather allow a researcher to delicately pay attention to the attitudes and behaviors under study…A more personable approach Conclusions are not concrete; often will suggest further investigation