Evolution of information practices over time

Abstract

Although researchers have grappled with conceptualizations of time in relation to information behavior, the effect of time on information practices has been a challenge to study and theorize. Longitudinal naturalistic methods provide an opportunity to observe information practices in context over time, but have infrequently been used in information research. This paper presents a qualitative ethnographic exploration of the changes over time in the information practices of a group of young parents in Canada, a population experiencing substantial life changes as young adults and new parents both. Using grounded theory, this analysis explores time-related processes in the lives of young parents and they ways these processes affect information practices such as seeking, sharing, and use of information. Three case examples illustrate the interplay over time of individual characteristics, setting, and events, and the impact on an individual's information practices. Based on these findings, a theoretical model to inform future investigations of information practice evolution over time is presented.