MODELING INFORMATION-SEEKING

This article proposes three inter-related models to aid in the underst anding of the complex and constructive process of contemporary informa tion seeking: (1) postmodern model of identity; (2) rhizomorphic model of information contexts; and (3) hypertextual model of technology int eraction. The nature of the information seeking problem is redefined a s an individual's negotiation of identity through the exploration of t he interaction of private ignorance and public knowledge. The three mo dels are introduced, and their association with the information seekin g problem clarified. The incorporation of foci on interactive processe s, borrowed from communication studies, into the current proposed appr oach to modelling information seeking is justified. Finally, suggestio ns are offered for further research based on this approach. (C) 1998 E lsevier Science B.V.