Shifts between search stages during task‐performance in mediated information seeking interaction

Abstract

The research reported here focuses on the users' information seeking behavior. Set in the framework of the interactive information retrieval paradigm, the research examines the micro‐dynamics of the information seeking process, and explores search stages that users pursue as they proceed to solve their information problem. The research analyzes the users' information seeking behavior as they move between search stages, and looks for patterns in the transition. The observed shifting behavior allows for examining the question of predictability. The observed shifting patterns lead to the development of a new model for information seeking behavior that describes multiple search stages, aspects and dimensions. The model represents a non‐linear process of multiple re‐iterative cycles that make up the overall flow of communication with the information system. The model expands significantly earlier theoretical and empirical models as it represents a series of re‐iterative processes that characterize the information seeking interaction.