The searcher may feel uncertain and confused due to the wide berth of information available on any given topic.

The Affective Experience: Exploration Stage of the Information Search Process

Locating information about a general topic to understand the general idea and start connecting more specific topics. 

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1- Initiation

2- Selection

3- Exploration

4- Formulation

5- Collection

6- Presentation



Stages of the Information Search Process

Kuhlthau, C. (2019). Information Search Process. Rutgers University.    https://wp.comminfo.rutgers.edu/ckuhlthau/information-search-process/ 

Information Search Process

Information Search Process Stages and Domains Model 

When a user becomes aware of a knowledge gap or information need. 

1 - Initiation Stage of the Information Search Process

When a user identifies the topic or problem to research in order to fill their information gap.

2 - Selection Stage of the Information Search Process

3 - Exploration Stage of the Information Search Process

When a searcher continues to refine a search process to obtain more accurate information.

4 - Formulation Stage of the Information Search Process

When a searcher finds the specific information they are looking for and is able to search for similar sources now that they've refined their search. 

5 - Collection Stage of the Information Search Process

The search is complete and the information collected brings about a new understanding. The searcher is now able to explain the topic to others or utilize the new knowledge. 

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Related

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