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.