Informational balance: slow principles in the theory and practice of information behaviour
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the principles of the Slow Movement may be applied to information behaviour.
Design/methodology/approach
The study uses three methods: a literature analysis and synthesis; a Delphi study; and a focus group. All are carried out in accordance with Slow principles, to assess the value of Slow in the conduct of the research itself.
Findings
Slow principles are applicable to both the theory and practice of information behaviour. They allow theory to be more realistic by encompassing a broader range of behaviours than those included in most established models of information behaviour and information literacy, particularly behaviours relating to temporal and experiential factors. The use of Slow principles in information practice may help to overcome problems relating to personal information management. The notion of “informational balance” stems from Slow ideas and is a useful concept for theory and practice.
Research limitations/implications
The empirical parts of the study use small groups of participants, and the emphasis of the focus group in particular was on everyday information, rather than on professional or academic information. The results of the study show that research and theory in information behaviour would benefit form more explicit attention to time factors.
Practical implications
The findings may be used in the design of information literacy instruction, and in encouraging a more reflective approach to personal information management.
Originality/value
This is the first study to examine the applicability of Slow principles in an information context. It is also original in explicitly applying Slow principles to the research design.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was supported by a postgraduate studentship from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (UK).
Citation
Poirier, L. and Robinson, L. (2014), "Informational balance: slow principles in the theory and practice of information behaviour", Journal of Documentation, Vol. 70 No. 4, pp. 687-707. https://doi.org/10.1108/JD-08-2013-0111
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited