Can semantic mapping be used to model information seeking behaviour in resource discovery systems?

Locating accurate information on academic topics is a challenge for today’s information seekers. Whilst specialist portals exist, users have a marked preference for finding their own information yet are rarely trained in formal information searching using library resources. Further such electronic resource discovery systems are often complex or highly complicated to use. Work is underway to produce a tool to support academic users in accessing relevant information via library sources. Any tool that seeks to assist students and researchers in finding the information they need must be developed in cognisance of their existing workflow. Thus we sought to identify the processes novice and expert users carry out to find information. Using observations with a think aloud protocol, and follow-up interviews we gathered qualitative data on usage and responses to information searchin