Open science and the research information literacy framework

Abstract

The paper explores a possible framework for integration of concepts of open science and research information literacy. The factors of open science are identified, including relations with broader public and transparent information policies, practices, methods, data and publications. Models of digital scholarship are considered. The second part of the paper reports on results of a qualitative study of information behavior of 19 researchers in Slovakia. Semi-structured interviews and conceptual modeling were applied. Findings point to common methodological analytical procedures and differences in problem statements, data management and publishing strategies. Less awareness of open access, digital sources and publicity of research results was noted. Disciplinary differences are manifested mainly in publishing, procedures and evaluation of results. In conclusion, a resulting ecological framework of research information interactions and research information literacy based on understanding and sense making are proposed. Implications for researchers’ information spaces as part of knowledge infrastructure are considered.