Introduction to Information Behaviour

Facet Publishing has announced the release of Nigel Ford’s textbook Introduction to Information Behaviour.

The book uses a combination of theory and practical context to map out what information behaviour is and what we currently know about it, before addressing how it can be better understood in the future.

Ford argues that new understandings of information behaviour research may help maximise the quality and effectiveness of the way information is presented, sought, discovered, evaluated and used.

The book introduces the key concepts, issues and themes of information behaviour, illustrates them using key research studies, and aims to provide a clear path through the complex maze of theories and models. Case studies are included throughout the text and each chapter concludes with a round-up of what has been covered, highlighting the implications for professional information practice.

Key topics include:

•     Defining information behaviour and why is it useful to know about it;
•     Information needs;
•     Information seeking and acquisition;
•     Collaborative information behaviour;
•     Factors affecting information behaviour;
•     Models and theories of information behaviour;
•     Research approaches and methodologies;
•     Designing information systems; and
•     The future trajectory of information behaviour research and practice.