Modeling task-based information seeking on the Web: Application of information seeking strategy schema

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand how task influences information seeking behavior in the digital information environment of the World Wide Web. To present a conceptual model of task-based information seeking on the Web, an information seeking strategy schema was developed. This schema is based on several behavioral dimensions. The analysis of strategies is based on data collected through an experiment designed to observe users' behaviors. Three tasks were assigned to thirty graduate students. Data were collected by combining search logs and post-search interviews. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of the data identified fourteen distinct information seeking strategies. The analysis showed significant differences in the frequencies and patterns of information seeking strategies employed between three tasks. The results of the study were discussed to understand task-based information seeking behavior on the Web.