Medical students' search behaviour: An exploratory survey

Abstract

Medical information searching has become an integral part of a medical students' life. Yet, medical students are not provided with formal education on how to search for medical information on medical domains. Searching for medical information on medical domains is not a trivial task. It requires usage of appropriate terminology and the ability to comprehend returned results. The search behavior of medical students is rarely studied to understand how their information search goal is being satisfied or to identify specific search challenges faced by them. In this paper, we study interactive information searching behavior of medical students. Using simulated work task scenarios, we identify similarities and variability's in search patterns and analyzes search behavior traits demonstrated by medicals students. Based on our findings, we suggest intuitive methods medical search engines could adapt to improve medical students' search interaction to better support the search process.