A critical review of research on information behavior in assigned learning tasks
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to give a critical review of the empirical information seeking and retrieval (IS&R) literature focusing on learning related information behavior. It also aims to propose the task‐based approach to link research on learning and information behavior in learning tasks and to organize and interpret the literature.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper takes the form of a critical literature review.
Findings
Researchers have identified patterns of information behavior and variations in the conceptions of seeking and using information for learning tasks. The results are fragmented and a framework should be developed to guide further research. Learners' information behavior in learning tasks may be attributable to various explanatory factors, which have not been taken into account in any single study. The concept of focus formulation appears to link information seeking and learning. The role of the writing process in learners' information behavior and the characteristics of the resulting documents have received least attention in the research field.
Research limitations/implications
The review emphasizes task‐based IS&R literature. Learning research may shed more light on specific questions.
Practical implications
The paper may help teachers in designing learning tasks.
Originality/value
The paper provides a synthesis of recent studies on information behavior in learning tasks and identifies new paths for further research.
Keywords
Citation
Tanni, M. and Sormunen, E. (2008), "A critical review of research on information behavior in assigned learning tasks", Journal of Documentation, Vol. 64 No. 6, pp. 893-914. https://doi.org/10.1108/00220410810912442
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited