Research Articles (Information Science)

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Continuity and change in West African librarianship : revisiting Mary Niles Maack’s research in Senegal and the region
(Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024) Lor, Peter Johan
Mary Niles Maack's 1978 dissertation on the history of libraries in Senegal constitutes a landmark contribution to the historiography of librarianship in Africa and to international librarianship. In this article Maack's dissertation, her 1981 book-length adaptation of it, and her subsequent writings about West African library development are first situated in the political-economic, professional, and scholarly context of the late 1970s, before the dissertation is evaluated in terms of her sources and methodology. Her key theme of continuity and change, her analysis of the French colonial heritage and postcolonial French efforts to preserve influence in West Africa, and the wider relevance of the study are discussed. Maack's book was well received. Her work provided raw material for various other authors as well as for five subsequent journal articles by Maack herself. An attempt is made to answer the question, What might a dissertation on library and information science development in a francophone African country such as Senegal cover today? It is suggested that the precolonial heritage, political-economic factors, information technology, development aid, and renewal of the library profession in Africa would require more attention. However, it would not be easy for a PhD student today to match Maack's scholarship.
Kriteria vir die vertaling van Afrikaanse fiksie : ’n uitgewersperspektief
(LitNet, 2024-03) Miller, Samantha
AFRIKAANS : Uitgewerye se doel is om waarde toe te voeg tot skrywers se manuskripte, hierdie manuskripte te verpak in boekformaat en hierdie boeke beskikbaar te stel aan ’n spesifieke teikenmark teen die regte verkoopprys. Alhoewel uitgewerye ook sosiale doelwitte het, is uitgewerye besigheidsentiteite wat markuitbreiding en standhoudendheid belangrik ag. Vernuwende besigheidsmodelle en strategieë is dus nodig. Afrikaans word beskou as ’n minderheidstaal, aangesien hierdie taal deur minder as 50% van die bevolking van Suid-Afrika gepraat word (Grenoble en Singerman 2014). Die boekleser- en -kopersmark in hierdie taal is beperk en Afrikaanse uitgewerye ervaar daarom spesifieke uitdagings. Die verkoop van Afrikaanse vertaalregte aan internasionale uitgewersmarkte wat soortgelyke behoeftes met betrekking tot kulturele verbruik en leeskultuur toon, is ’n strategie om publisering in Afrikaans te handhaaf, markuitbreiding vir die skrywers se boeke te bewerkstellig en blootstelling vir Afrikaanse fiksie te fasiliteer. Maar hierdie doelwitte is nie altyd haalbaar wanneer die oneweredige vloei en verspreiding van mag en hulpbronne tussen periferale, semiperiferale en sentrale tale, asook tussen ontwikkelende en ontwikkelde lande, binne ’n globale literêre polisisteem oorweeg word nie (Even-Zohar 1979; Casanova 2010; Van Es en Heilbron 2015). Te midde van hierdie globale uitdagings kom minderheidstaalpublisering voor verdere unieke uitdagings te staan. In Suid-Afrika is dit noodsaaklik dat Afrikaanse fiksie aan spesifieke kriteria moet voldoen om vir vertaling oorweeg te word deur ’n internasionale uitgewery. Sodoende kan Afrikaanse boeke se reikwydte vergroot word. Hierdie artikel poog om te bepaal wat hierdie kriteria is en is losweg gebaseer op die magisterstudie “Selling translation rights in trade publishing: case studies of Dutch translations of Afrikaans fiction in The Netherlands and Belgium” (Buitendach-Miller 2018). Hierdie studie sluit ’n omvattende literatuurstudie in wat, onder andere, die geskiedenis van Afrikaans, die Suid-Afrikaanse uitgewersbedryf en vertaalstrategieë bespreek. Afrikaans is volgens beginsels van die polisisteemteorie geposisioneer as periferale taal binne die globale literêre sisteem. Deur middel van semigestruktureerde onderhoude met ’n vertaler, uitgewers en literêre agente in die Suid-Afrikaanse en Nederlandse uitgewersbedryf, sowel as gevallestudies van vertaalde Afrikaanse populêre fiksieskrywers, naamlik Deon Meyer en Irma Joubert, is ’n generiese lys kriteria vir die vertaling van Afrikaanse fiksie geformuleer. Bevindinge toon dat persoonlike besigheidsverhoudings met internasionale uitgewers, die profiel en oeuvre van die skrywer, unieke verkoopwaarde van die betrokke boek en die tydgees waarin die boek gepubliseer is, van belang is. Bestaande vertalings, plaaslike verkope en posisioneringstrategieë speel ook ’n belangrike rol. Verder toon die navorsingsresultate dat selfs debuutskrywers neweregte met geen gevestigde publikasielys nie, suksesvol kan verkoop wanneer aktuele temas, kontroversie of toekennings op die spel is. Elke boek word dus binne konteks van die betrokke uitgewery (plaaslik en internasionaal), sowel as die tydgees en die genre oorweeg wanneer besluite oor vertalings geneem word. Hierdie artikel bespreek die voorgestelde kriteria wat met die vertaling van Afrikaanse fiksie oorweeg kan word wanneer titels vir die verkoop van vertaalregte aan internasionale uitgewerye voorgelê gaan word.
Holistic epistemology and prospects for design in the philosophy of information
(Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024-08) Dick, Archie L.
The discipline of library and information science (LIS), conceived narrowly as applied philosophy of information, overlooks a rich tradition of debate and discussion about its holistic epistemological features. For the LIS profession to deliver services that safeguard social values such as equality of access, intellectual freedom, and diversity, its discipline should reconnect information with knowledge and with epistemology as the theory of knowledge. This article critiques conceptions of information not bound to the core features of the LIS profession and its discipline. It evaluates some early and recent conceptions of information connecting it to the profession’s remitof activities and services. LIS theorists’ ideas about holistic epistemology and perspectivism are discussed and evaluated as prospects for design and development.
Exploring the philosophy and practice of AI literacy in higher education in the global south
(Cybrarians, 2024) Van Wyk, Brenda; brenda.vanwyk@up.ac.za
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the top of the agendas of higher education and educationleaders are required to give direction in educating the next generation of students and citizens. AI holds positive answers to technological innovations, but the potential for continued inequities, exclusion and divides must not be ignored. As a relatively new concept, AI literacy is often viewed as a complex concept requiring more detailed conceptualisation. Furthermore, with the recent hype around generative AI (GenAI), discussions and explorations around what AI literacy is, are now being deliberated. Historically AI was the domain of mathematicians and computer scientists. This is changing as the wider implication of AI permeates all aspects of society, in particular the ethical and informed use of AI and GenAI is paramount. This leaves higher education with the dilemma of deciding who is responsible in teaching and facilitation AI literacy. Keeping in mind that there is an abundance of new literacies in academia. This problem is particularly pronounced in the Global South countries, where digital exclusions and social injustice are becoming more complex. This scoping review evaluated 40 screened and eligible peer reviewed articles and conference proceedings published between 2020-2024 on AI literacy in higher education in the Global South. The aim of the study was to gauge the extant research on AI literacy and its subsequent ethical implications in higher education in the Global South. The study further explored which philosophies and frameworks inform and guide AI literacy research and support in higher education within the selected region. Findings are that while the disciplines of education are engaging in research, other disciplines such as Information Science are interdisciplinary actors in teaching and facilitating AI literacy, but that there is a pronounced paucity in research being conducted.
Who are they? Redefining demarcation of research participant characteristics and related conceptualizations
(Wiley, 2024-10) Fourie, Ina; Agarwal, Naresh K.; Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); Mierzecka, Anna; Nesset, Val; ina.fourie@up.ac.za
In any research that involves people, whether as respondents or participants, demarcation of their characteristics is crucial for necessary context. These can include their roles (e.g., patient, caregiver), relationships (e.g., partner), and demographics such as age range, [dis]ability, ethnicity, gender, language, race, socio-economic group or geographic region. Yet, despite this need for precision, terminology used for demarcation is often treated as intuitive(“y’know”). For example, age demarcations seem to be obvious but are often laden with vagueness, lack of standardization, and/or acknowledgement of differences in age ranges. Some demarcations might also be influenced by country norms or by disciplinary interpretations (e.g., legal vs medical). Considering the emphasis on respect for diversity and the need for rigor in research it seems timely to open a discussion of the many questions to be answered when demarcating characteristics of research participants. Using examples, this panel will explore some applications and definitions of demarcations.
The evolving role of information professionals in navigating places, spaces, and nurturing new discourses in the in-between
(Wiley, 2024-10) Meyer, Anika; Holmner, Marlene; Rorissa, Abebe; Fourie, Ina; Alemneh, Daniel; Hartel, Jenna; anika.meyer@up.ac.za
Information professionals are at the forefront of navigating the intricacies of shifting landscapes of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and Society 5.0, such as physical places, digital domains, and transitional zones in between,where boundaries blur and new discourses emerge. They are expected to extend their expertise into new domains and enrich their professional practice to better meet the evolving needs of their users. Third Space theory reported in Kuhlthau’s work on guided inquiry and information literacy offers a framework, that creates an “in-between” space,which allows personal experience to merge with professional information and encounters to help information professionals expand beyond their traditional domain expertise. These spaces promote the bridging of theory and practice, the navigation of ethical boundaries, access to multi-perspective discourse, engagement in active listening,adjustment to evolving technologies, and facilitation of innovative methods. Creating in-between spaces that promote conversations, interaction, information flow, and access is critical to navigating the intricacies. This interactive panel will explore how information professionals may use Third Space as a framework to offer a new way of thinking and addressing complex societal challenges while prioritizing human values, needs, and well-being
Immersive technology in education
(Wiley, 2024-10) Bosman, Isak de Villiers; Smith, Annique Elizabeth; Wong, Yan Lau; Ka, Kwan Sui Dave; Alemneh, Daniel; Chow, Anthony; isak.bosman@up.ac.za
Immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are transforming higher education by providing engaging, experiential learning opportunities. However, their integration into educational practices presents challenges, including high costs, technological complexity, and the digital divide. This panel explores the application of immersive technologies in higher education, focusing on developing an immersive technology lab designed to support their adoption across the institution. The discussion will cover global perspectives on immersive learning, showcasing varied adoption rates and strategies across different regions. Additionally, the panel will highlight research opportunities in immersive education, emphasizing the need for studies on effective integration,impact on learning outcomes, and strategies to overcome barriers to adoption. The goal is to identify sustainable approaches to expose staff and students to immersive technologies, ensuring equitable opportunities for all stakeholders.
Ethnographic stories in information science
(Wiley, 2024-10) Montague, Kaitlin E.; Hartel, Jenna; Greyson, Devon; Fourie, Ina; Tracey, Pelle; ina.fourie@up.ac.za
Considering the conference theme “Putting People First: Responsibility, Reciprocity, and Care in Information Science Research and Practice,” this panel brings an ethnographic methodological conversation to the 2024 ASIS&T Annual Meeting. Our session emphasizes how participants’ stories are one of the most human-centered tools we have in research, highlighting how storytelling is an integral part of being human. The panelists have conducted ethnographic fieldwork in various contexts and begins with an introduction about ethnography as a form of story telling, introducing concepts of vulnerability and reciprocity. Panelists will then reflect on ethnographic stories before turning to teaching Information Ethnography. Our session aims to broach the joys and challenges of ethnographic research by bringing a new honesty to the conversation in Information Science. We will engage the audience in open discussion, before breaking out into smaller groups, fostering an intimate, safe space to share stories about past research.
Embracing Ubuntu : cultivating inclusive information access in decolonising African information curriculum
(Wiley, 2024-10) Laughton, Paul; Holmner, Marlene Amanda; Meyer, Anika; Alemneh, Daniel; Rorissa, Abebe; Hawamdeh, Suliman
Decolonising the information curriculum through the process of indigenization is a crucial process that advocates fora paradigm shift towards the integration of various political ideologies and knowledge systems in order to correct the marginalisation and exclusion that have been sustained by colonial legacies. The Ubuntu ideology offers a foundation for promoting an inclusive, people-centered approach to curriculum development because it places an emphasis on communal values and connection. Educators can establish learning environments that support empathy, inclusivity, and cooperation while reflecting and accommodating the needs and experiences of every student by emulating the values of Ubuntu. By appreciating students' cultural origins in the information sciences, Culturally Responsive Pedagogy enhances academic engagement and equips students for a diverse global information landscape, which further supports these efforts. Collectively, these strategies seek to foster an information society that is more socially just and equitable, which is consistent with the overarching objective of guaranteeing inclusivity and fairness in education.
Accessibility for motor disabilities in immersive technologies
(Wiley, 2024-10) Holmner, Marlene Amanda; Meyer, Anika; Ka, Kwan Sui Dave; Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); Alemneh, Daniel; MacLeod, John; marlene.holmner@up.ac.za
The rise of immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and extended reality (XR) has revolutionized experiences in industry, entertainment, and academia. However, individuals with motor disabilities face challenges in accessing these technologies due to conventional interaction methods relying on motion-tracked controllers. This panel discussion explores the barriers faced by people with motor disabilities and the potential benefits of overcoming these challenges. It delves into innovative interaction methods, the role of immersive technologies in physical rehabilitation, and designing for diversity and inclusion. Ethical considerations n creating accessible immersive experiences, such as privacy, equity, and responsible data use, are also addressed. Future directions for accessible immersive technologies are discussed, highlighting advancements in adaptive equipment and interfaces. The panel aims to foster collaboration between technology developers, researchers, and disability advocates to ensure immersive technologies are inclusive and beneficial for all.
The link between dissertation metadata completeness and user engagement in an institutional repository
(Springer, 2025-04) Rasuli, Behrooz; Boock, Michael; Schoepfel, Joachim; Van Wyk, Brenda
This study investigates the role of metadata quality in Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs), focusing on its completeness and its impact on discoverability and user engagement within institutional repositories (IRs). Using DSpace@MIT as a case study, the current research analyzed 22,276 doctoral dissertations to assess metadata completeness and its correlation with the number of views and downloads. Various metadata fields and usage statistics were extracted for detailed analysis. The study identified a moderate positive correlation between the numbers of unique metadata fields and both the Department Views Ratio (DVR) and Department Download Ratio (DDR), suggesting that enriched metadata can improve the visibility and accessibility of dissertations. Additionally, the length of abstracts is positively correlated with engagement metrics (significance level for all reported results < 0.001). In contrast, title length does not significantly influence the visibility. These findings showed the importance of high-quality metadata in enhancing the discoverability of ETDs. Three limitations are discussed, including the focus on a single repository, the lack of control for other variables that may impact user engagement, and the massive upload of thousands of theses in 2005. This research not only emphasizes the necessity of high-quality metadata for enhancing discoverability but also positions it as a strategic asset that can significantly amplify the visibility and impact of scholarly work. As institutions strive to foster open access and maximize research dissemination, our study provides actionable insights that can guide repository managers in refining their metadata practices.
Assessing the visibility and public engagement of bone marrow and stem cell transplantation research : an altmetric analysis
(Elsevier, 2025-02) Ahmadian, Mohammad; Alizadeh, Shaban; Omidkhoda, Azadeh; Sheikhshoaei, Fatemeh; Van Wyk, Brenda
BACKGROUND : Bone marrow and stem cell transplantation have led to significant advancements in modern medicine, offering potential cures for various hematological disorders and specific cancers. This study aims to investigate and analyze research in this field using altmetrics in a world outside the academic scholarly and publishing environment. METHODS : This study examines articles in the field of bone marrow and stem cell transplantation in a ten-year period (2013–2022) extracted from the Web of Science database. The Altmetric Explorer database and tool were used to extract data. After an initial review of the data for their completeness and accuracy, the study considered descriptive reports, statistical analyses, bibliometric network analysis, and overlaps between articles, journals, and research centers in terms of the Altmetric Attention Score (AAS) and citations using Excel, SPSS, Python, R, and VOSviewer. RESULTS : This study evaluated 12924 articles published in 293 journals. Findings show that 85.67% of the articles were mentioned at least once on various social media and their tools. The AAS varied between 0 and 1125, and the median of this score was 2. The highest score was assigned to an article that provides critical insights into the outcomes of patients with refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Mendeley, X (formerly Twitter), and News were the most important and active social tools, respectively, where these articles were mentioned. The highest number of tweets, news stories, Facebook posts, and policy documents were from the USA, USA, USA, and UK, respectively. The @PaperbirdsM and @MayoClinic accounts on X had the highest tweet and follower statistics, respectively. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center also had the highest number of mentions on social networks. Network analysis maps of the top AAS articles showed “Stem Cell Transplantation” as the most popular author keyword, with Blood having the most influence at the journal level, the USA at the country level, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center at the research center level, and Kenneth C. Anderson at the author level. Finally, the results of the tests showed a significant correlation between citation and Altmetric indicators/AAS. However, nor were there differences in AAS based on the open access status of articles or the journal quartile. CONCLUSION : A high percentage of articles in this field are present on social networks and platforms. Furthermore, highly cited articles on social media have attracted more attention. Both traditional and web-based metrics offer different perspectives on scholarly impact. While each provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore how these metrics can be effectively combined for a more comprehensive evaluation of scientific outputs.
A scoping review of digital literacy, digital competence, digital fluency and digital dexterity in academic libraries' context
(Elsevier, 2025) Makhafola, Lesego; Van Deventer, Martha Johanna; Holmner, Marlene Amanda; Van Wyk, Brenda; lesego.makhafola@up.ac.za
PURPOSE : The purpose of this paper is to report on a scoping review investigating the preference for using digital literacy, digital competence, digital fluency, or digital dexterity when considering continued professional skills development for academic librarians. METHODOLOGY : A scoping review of peer-reviewed scholarly articles published in the English language between 2013 and 2023 (a 10-year period) was conducted. An initial 485 results were retrieved with 184 duplicates removed. 301 studies were screened based on the title, keywords, and abstract fields, 108 full-text reviews took place, with a final 61 papers included for analysis. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel to sort, group, and further analyse and visualise the data. Thematic analysis was used to report the results. FINDINGS : The review provided valuable insights into the concepts of digital literacy, digital competence, digital dexterity, and digital fluency for the development of information professionals in academic libraries. It also identified distinctive characteristics of each of the four concepts that were reviewed. ORIGINALITY : The scoping review distinguishes between digital literacy, digital competence, digital fluency, and digital dexterity. It also highlights the gaps, making it clear what is required for each, including the knowledge, skills, and competencies. LIMITATIONS : Several databases (Emerald Insight, ScienceDirect, and Taylor and Francis) could not be interrogated directly, however, relevant articles from these databases were retrieved, nonetheless making use of the complementary databases searched.
Embodiment in virtual reality : an experiment on how visual and aural first- and third-person modes affect embodiment and mindfulness
(Springer, 2025-03) Bosman, Isak de Villiers; Bujic, Mila; Cosio, Laura Diana; 'Oz' Buruk, Oguz; Jorgensen, Kristine; Hamari, Juho; isak.bosman@up.ac.za
Immersion as an umbrella experience and embodiment are regarded as primary advantages of virtual reality and its capability to lead to other reflective experiences. Beyond the basis of stereoscopic head-mounted displays, however, there is paucity of research on altered ways of experiencing virtual reality with regards to the possibilities afforded by this medium. To address this gap, we explore the effects of perspective shifts, both in terms of the visual and aural modalities, on embodiment and embodied mindfulness. Using a virtual reality application that administers a body-scan meditation using different visual- and aural perspectives, we investigate the effects these perspectives have on embodiment and embodied mindfulness. Our results indicate that a first-person visual perspective positively influenced a change in perceived body schema, but not in acceptance of virtual body ownership or control/agency of a virtual body, nor do they suggest an effect of audio-based perspective on these outcomes. Investigation into the moderating effects of mindfulness- and immersive tendencies on these factors suggest that participants with low immersive tendencies experienced a greater change in their body schema in the visual first-person condition compared to the third-person condition. A qualitative content analysis on participants’ experiences indicate that few participants were able to express their experience in terms of audio. Our results contribute to the body of work on altered self-representations for mindfulness and extends on this concept with the notion of listening perspective as well as more generally to the design of sound, perspective, and embodiment in virtual reality.
From tradition to fast pacing 4IR and Society 5.0, to embracing community librarianship : an evolutionary approach on how to prepare students
(Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024-05) Fourie, Ina; Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); Holmner, Marlene Amanda; Meyer, Anika; ina.fourie@up.ac.za
The value of community libraries (in various forms and contexts) is well recognized. They align with traditional values of libraries to offer information access and supportive services on all levels of society, while subject to the challenges of the contemporary digital transformation of society and the economy, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), Society 5.0, and artificial intelligence (AI). They need to address various needs in specific contexts (from poverty-stricken to sophisticated technology-driven). This paper shares a vision for preparing students for community librarianship that attends to both the traditional values reported in the literature as well as exciting opportunities that technological development is offering to leapfrog and progress at a quicker and more effective pace. We reflect on the conceptualization and value of community libraries and librarianship, the challenges faced in contemporary society and examples of initiatives from different continents. Against this background, suggestions are offered for an evolutionary model that can be used by educators to prepare students for changing librarianship environments and that can inform context-appropriate curricular development for community librarianship. The latter would, amongst other things, cover the combined use of andragogic (suitable for adult learners) and pedagogic teaching approaches, incorporation of cultural values and diversity, technological developments, and preparation for participatory collaboration and research with communities.
Effects of meaningful choices in serious games for meaningful learning
(Serious Games Society, 2024-09) Wong, Yan Lau; Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); Smith, Annique Elizabeth; yan.wong@up.ac.za
This action research study examines how meaningful choice design affects the overall meaningful learning experience of a virtual reality educational serious game. An intervention was developed to teach hazard detection in mines and was tested by mining engineering postgraduate students at a tertiary institution. Qualitative findings suggest that participants felt that the application of meaningful choice design improved the overall learning experience. This design approach empowered players to tailor their experiences based on their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to establish a personalized flow and pace to master the content. Moreover, participants expressed that the inclusion of meaningful choice design enriched their serious game experience and, consequently, enhanced their learning outcomes. Future research on serious games should focus on exploring replayability, quantifying the impact of positive game experiences on learning, and implementing various game design principles in educational serious games. This study advances game-based education by emphasizing the benefits of using game design techniques and positive play experiences for learning.
Models and theories that can guide grief and bereavement information interventions : an information behaviour lens
(University of Borås, 2024-06) Fourie, Ina; ina.fourie@up.ac.za
INTRODUCTION: Information behaviour in grief, bereavement, death, dying and its influence on the development of information interventions is understudied. Although pragmatic and evidence-based practices work well, theoretical and conceptual models, research findings and theories should inform grief and bereavement information interventions developed by specialist counsellors. Extensive literature on death, dying, grief and bereavement counselling/therapy and information behaviour per se, does not address this need. This paper reports on work in progress exploring existing theories and models that might guide research. METHOD: Scoping review of literature from applicable disciplines (health, social work, religion, psychology, library/information science) for theories/models reported in grief and bereavement counselling and bereavement information intervention design. The focus is on information behaviour and all related information activities. ANALYSIS: Two tables based on a content analysis that show theories/models that hold value for information interventions and studies of information behaviour. RESULTS: The analysis reveals a spectrum of theories including grief theory, grief stage theory, theory of motivated information management. Models for consideration include bereavement model, transtheoretical model (narratives), social interaction model. CONCLUSION: Information behaviour research should continue to strive in conceptually and theoretically informing grief and bereavement information interventions, practices and work in grief and bereavement counselling.
Information seeking behaviour in music conductors' repertoire selection
(University of Borås, 2024-06) Firkins, Christina Maria; Barrett-Berg, Michael; Fourie, Ina; christina.firkins@up.ac.za
INTRODUCTION: Music repertoire selection is a process driven by music conductors. They focus on scoring, ensemble composition, acquisition methods (i.e., acquiring the music). Information needs and seeking are core to repertoire selection and conductors’ tasks/roles. It cannot be considered in isolation; other conductor responsibilities, past experiences, and external factors (e.g., finances) influence the process and information seeking. We report findings from an exploratory study conducted in 2023 with 37 conductors. METHOD: Brief literature review, triangulated with findings from a mixed-method study. A semi-structured questionnaire collected quantitative data from 37 conductors and individual online interviews collected qualitative data from two conductors. ANALYSIS: Quantitative data revealed typical tasks requiring information, issues to consider in repertoire selection (e.g., text, ensemble capabilities), internet usage and other information seeking activities and sources. Qualitative data elaborated on factors influencing repertoire selection and information seeking e.g., repertoire inspiration and financial factors. RESULTS & DISCUSSION: Three core themes influencing information seeking are discussed: process of repertoire selection, user (individual conductor) characteristics, external factors. The repertoire selection (process) is mapped against information seeking behaviour (activities, sources), user characteristics and external factors. CONCLUSION: Music repertoire selection’s interdependence with other tasks of music conductors, the importance of individuality and inevitable external factors, influence information seeking.
Enhancing conceptualisations of information behaviour contexts through insights from research on e-dictionaries and e-lexicography
(University of Borås, 2024-06) Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); Fourie, Ina; theo.bothma@up.ac.za; ina.fourie@up.ac.za
INTRODUCTION: Extensive conceptualisations of context in information behaviour research do not extend to all contexts revealed in the use of electronic (e)- dictionary and similar e-sources. Information behaviour emphasises users’ contexts and their situations. As intermediaries, examples of using e-dictionaries reveal additional contexts. E-dictionary research and lexicographical insight add additional conceptualisations of information behaviour contexts. METHOD: Conceptual paper drawing on literature reviews of research on e-dictionaries and conceptualisations of information behaviour contexts, and an exemplar approach to e-dictionary use. ANALYSIS: The literature and dictionary use examples are analysed through an information behaviour lens with added lexicographic insight. RESULTS: Conceptualisations of context in information behaviour research strongly focus on the user (e.g. the need, problem) and specific situations in such contexts, sometimes extending to temporality and spatiality. Information retrieval literature also notes the context of the person who created information and of an intermediary (person or system). Three contexts are evident from e-dictionary use and lexicography: user, information intermediary (dictionary), and word, phrase or text (information source). These contexts might influence information behaviour. CONCLUSION: The use of e-dictionaries and similar intermediaries, observed with lexicographic insight, can enhance conceptualisations of context in information behaviour, which is of value in the use of information sources and information evaluation.
Aspekte van inligtingsonttrekkingstrukture in aanlyn woordeboeke
(Buro van die WAT, 2024) Gouws, Rufus H.; Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); theo.bothma@up.ac.za
In gedrukte woordeboeke met 'n statiese artikel- en boekstruktuur is die ver-houding tussen die verspreiding van data en die onttrekking van inligting eenvoudig en die meeste woordeboeke volg min of meer dieselfde ordeningstelsels. Aanlyn woordeboeke vertoon dina-miese strukture met data wat dikwels op verskillende vlakke en in verskillende vakke aangebied word. Dit dwing die gebruiker om afwaarts (of vertikaal) en sywaarts (of horisontaal) in 'n artikel of bepaalde artikelkommentare te beweeg en om soekprosedures te volg wat nuwe strukture soos uitgebreide kommentare en selfs nuwe soekposisies soos soektonnels in ag moet neem. Dit is uiters belangrik dat gebruikers bewus moet wees van die volle spektrum data in 'n leksikografiese pro-duk en dat hulle daartoe in staat moet wees om die datatipe wat vir hulle ter sake is, te kan kies. Gebruikers van leksikografiese produkte het ondersteuning nodig om 'n optimale onttrekking van inligting te verseker. Gevolglik moet leksikograwe moeite doen om 'n inligtingsonttrekkingstruk-tuur te skep wat gebruikers kan help om suksesvolle woordeboekraadpleging te verseker. Dit kan verfyning van die databasisstruktuur van die woordeboek vereis, en die ontwikkeling van 'n gevor-derde koppelvlakontwerp wat nuwe kenmerke en navigasie-opsies aan die gebruiker beskikbaar kan stel. Dit beklemtoon weer eens die noodsaaklikheid van 'n multidissiplinêre span in die ontwik-keling van 'n woordeboek om 'n geskikte finale produk aan die gebruiker te kan bied. Hierdie arti-kel bied voorstelle vir gestruktureerde en kitstoegang tot data en die gebruik van datamerkers om gebruikers te lei na aanduiders in komplekse woordeboekartikels. Die klem is ook op die gebruikers-vriendelikheid van leksikografiese instrumente wat die gehalte van intuïtiewe woordeboekgebruik kan verbeter.

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