Users' mental models of cross-device search under controlled and autonomous motivations

Abstract

PurposeExisting literature has elicited the external behaviors of cross-device search but not much is known about users' cognition of cross-device search. The study aims to explore how users perceive the cross-device search by combining with the mental models and how motivations affect the users' understanding of cross-device search.Design/methodology/approachThe research questions are addressed through semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 59 users. Prior to the interview, the user is asked to complete a cross-device search task designed with the simulation of controlled and autonomous motivations to gain a real experience. The concepts of mental models are coded according to the constructivist grounded theory method.FindingsThe study finds the users' mental models of cross-device search consist of four dimensions: Element, Quality, Function and Issue. The effect of motivation on the mental models is tested as significant in terms of the Quality and Function aspects. The controlled motivation affects the user's perception of how the device switch influence the search and the autonomous motivation influences the user's opinion of search system functions.Originality/valueThe contribution of this study is found to extend the existing knowledge of cross-device search and update the mental models of information search in the current multi-device environment. The findings inform the future study of cross-device search and practices of search system design.