Year: 2015
Type: article
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to investigate the information practices of medical scientists in the research work context. METHODS: This is a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews. The interviews were transcribed and analysed in a web tool for qualitative analysis. Activity theory was used as the theoretical framework. RESULTS: The generating motives for the information related activity come from the core activity, research work. The motives result in actions such as searching and using information. Usability, accessibility and ease of use are the most important conditions that determine information related operations. Medical scientists search and use information most of all in the beginning and at the end of the research work. CONCLUSIONS: Information practices appear as an instrument producing activity to the central activity. Information services should be embedded in this core activity and in practice libraries should follow researchers' workflow and embed their tools and services in it.
DOI: 10.1111/hir.12095
Author: Annikki Roos
Institutions: University of Helsinki, Hanken School of Economics
Language: English
Subfield: Library and Information Sciences
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,240
OpenAlex ID: W2014652171