Abstract
Objective
The aim of the study was to investigate the information practices of medical scientists in the research work context.
Methods
This is a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews. The interviews were transcribed and analysed in a web tool for qualitative analysis. Activity theory was used as the theoretical framework.
Results
The generating motives for the information related activity come from the core activity, research work. The motives result in actions such as searching and using information. Usability, accessibility and ease of use are the most important conditions that determine information related operations. Medical scientists search and use information most of all in the beginning and at the end of the research work.
Conclusions
Information practices appear as an instrument producing activity to the central activity. Information services should be embedded in this core activity and in practice libraries should follow researchers' workflow and embed their tools and services in it.
The aim of the study was to investigate the information practices of medical scientists in the research work context.
Methods
This is a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews. The interviews were transcribed and analysed in a web tool for qualitative analysis. Activity theory was used as the theoretical framework.
Results
The generating motives for the information related activity come from the core activity, research work. The motives result in actions such as searching and using information. Usability, accessibility and ease of use are the most important conditions that determine information related operations. Medical scientists search and use information most of all in the beginning and at the end of the research work.
Conclusions
Information practices appear as an instrument producing activity to the central activity. Information services should be embedded in this core activity and in practice libraries should follow researchers' workflow and embed their tools and services in it.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Peer-reviewed scientific journal | Health Information and Libraries Journal |
| Volume | 32 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Pages (from-to) | 23-36 |
| Number of pages | 14 |
| ISSN | 1471-1834 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 03.2015 |
| MoE publication type | A1 Journal article - refereed |
Keywords
- 520 Other social sciences