Digital sociology and information science research

Abstract

Digital sociology is a new subfield of sociology that has challenged the discipline to engage with digital methods, information practices, and questions of societal data use. Such topics have been central to information science research for decades; however, renewed attention being called to them by sociologists creates both opportunities and challenges for information researchers who incorporate sociological theory or methods into their work. This panel invites audience members to consider the emergence of digital sociology and to explore what it means for information science research. Panelists, drawing on a variety of disciplinary roots, will introduce and contextualize the idea of digital sociology, explore issues related to the existing and potential intersection between digital sociology and information science, and examine tensions and criticisms related to sociological digital information research. Following a brief introduction and presentations from four panelists who are themselves using or exploring digital sociology in information research, there will be an open question and answer session with the audience, followed by World Café style small group discussions designed for attendees to share perspectives, make connections with each other, and discuss methods for future research with a sociological lens.