Inferential information‐seeking

Abstract

Purpose

Using a variety of evidence this paper aims to develop the concept of “inferential information‐seeking”. The term itself is new and the type of phenomena it addresses has been the subject of limited attention.

Design/methodology/approach

The author considers inferential information‐seeking in the context of three distinct scenarios, each of which has come to the writer's attention through either the literature or his own direct experience.

Findings

Exploration of the identified instances of inferential information‐seeking reveals that the strategy is a circuitous one employed by individuals when faced with barriers that impede their use of more obvious methods of finding information. Substantial mental effort may be required on the user's part to exploit the information elicited in such a way as to satisfy the information need stimulating the action.

Research limitations/implications

The notion of inferential information‐seeking postulated here is based on a very small number of cases, none of which has come to light in research specially undertaken to investigate the phenomenon.

Practical implications

Even though knowledge of inferential information‐seeking is still in its infancy, it would appear appropriate to incorporate some provision for it in the teaching of information literacy.

Originality/value

Intended for information practitioners and academics alike, the paper synthesizes a new concept through examination of actual information‐seeking episodes with reference to a wide‐ranging body of source material. An understanding of inferential information‐seeking offers the potential to increase our comprehension of how individuals find information, as well as to add a further dimension to information literacy instruction.

Citation

Shenton, A.K. (2009), "Inferential information‐seeking", Library Review, Vol. 58 No. 5, pp. 353-361. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242530910961774