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

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

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. 

6 - Presentation Stage of the Information Search Process

1- Initiation

2- Selection

3- Exploration

4- Formulation

5- Collection

6- Presentation



San Jose State University

The information search process (ISP) is a six-stage model of a user’s process while information seeking.

Information Search Process (ISP)

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

Information Search Process

Stages of the Information Search Process

The ISP model identifies three domains of experience common to each stage: 
- the affective (feelings)
- the cognitive (thoughts)
- the physical (actions)

Domains of Experience in the Information Search Process

Here are four instructional models to assist users/students in their information search process (ISP). Kuhlthau identified three approaches. 

- The Source Approach
- The Pathfinder Approach
- The Process Models Approach
- Sheingold's Inquiry Model 

Modes of Information Literacy Instruction for ISP

Uncertainty as a state that causes feelings of anxiety and lack of confidence is expected at the beginning of the Information Search Process and are related to having only vague ideas about a topic or question to further the search. There are six corollaries to this principle.

Learn Before

Related

Learn After