Searching as learning: A systematization based on literature

Abstract

The paper surveys empirical studies on the relations between information searching and learning, and presents some reflections about learning in a search process based on the findings. First, the meaning of the concepts ‘learning’ and ‘searching’ is briefly defined. Learning is conceptualized as changes in one’s knowledge structures. Then it is described more in detail how learning occurs in the search process. The point of departure is to focus on tasks that require the restructuring of knowledge structures and to analyse how gradual stabilization of those structures is related to accessing and interacting with information sources. After that, empirical studies on searching and learning are categorized by identifying independent and dependent variables in those studies. In conclusion, some general remarks on the topic are presented.