The dynamics of interactive information retrieval behavior, Part I: An activity theory perspective

Human information-seeking behavior is a topic of increasing interest in many disciplines. However, the dynamics of this behavior remain elusive. The extant research has taken cognitive and behavioral perspectives to study information-seeking behavior, and observed its dynamics in multiple sessions. However, the underlying mechanisms that govern the dynamics of information-seeking behavior are not well understood. With a focus on interactive information retrieval behavior, this study proposes an integrated framework based on activity theory. This framework is not only comprehensive and integrated, but also offers an explanation of the mechanisms governing the interaction between usersʹ cognitive states and their manifested behavior when using an information retrieval system. A set of four propositions are advanced to describe the mechanisms. The implications are discussed.