Gaining access to everyday life information seeking

Abstract

The discursive viewpoint adopted by many researchers who study everyday life information seeking allows for a shift in focus away from the individual as a unit of analysis toward a more general understanding of the broader cultural conditions within which individuals operate. However, the data employed by such researchers often consist of the testimony or observed actions of individuals. This paradox provides a point from which to reflect on the process of gaining access or entry to everyday life information seekers as research participants. This article presents the authors' reflections on their experiences of conducting separate library and information science studies of three diverse populations: pregnant women, members of a self-help support group, and preschool children. The article's premise is that theory and research practice are intertwined and that attending to issues of gaining access is essential for the development of both. Access is an emergent process dependent on the characteristics of the researcher, the participants, and the research context. D

Information behaviour of women: theoretical perspectives on gender

“…Similarly, Currie and Wiesenberg (2003) suggest that more emphasis is placed on sociocultural context, rather than purely psychological and personal factors, in research on women's need for, and use of healthcare information. Carey et al (2001) emphasise, like Dervin, the importance of intertwining method and theory, questioning assumptions, as in the cases considered, careful reflection on the process of gaining access to the participants led to insights about the social practices, and the information grounds of the groups studied. The model of information practices in everyday life information seeking (McKenzie, 2003) was based on an analysis of the way that participants (pregnant women expecting twins) constructed their accounts of information seeking and represented themselves.…”

Observation: A Complex Research Method

“…Going into a new environment may require the researcher to adopt the role of complete observer, whereas studying a group in which she/he is already a member allows the researcher to adopt the complete participant role. What is important is that the researcher assumes an appropriate, fl uid role--one that allows her/him to observe intimately the everyday life of the insiders (Chatman, 1984;Carey, McKechnie, & McKenzie, 2001).…”

Information behavior

“…A similar investigation was conducted among Somali women living in the U.K. by Davies and Bath (2003). McKenzie (Carey, McKechnie, & McKenzie, 2001; McKenzie, 2002a, 2002b, 2003a, 2003b) studied the information behavior of pregnant women, in some cases along with those of their midwives (McKenzie, 2004).…”