Reflections on Dr. Kuhlthau's Information Search Process

Task initiation

Task initiation is the first of the six steps of information seeking. Dr. Kuhlthau describes it as become aware of the problem or “gap of knowledge” and it is associated with uncertainty and vagueness. Looking at my own experience of researching and information seeking, this is definitely true. This stage is not only uncertainty about what you are researching but even uncertainty of how to even begin the process, where to start looking, figuring out what you are even looking for. Usually this consists of rereading the prompt or assignment many many times or looking at the gap of knowledge or problem to get a starting point at least.

Selection

Selection is the second of the six steps which is a little bit more honed with a little bit more certainty. Usually this step for me involves figuring out two to three possible themes or ideas of research. As Dr. Kuhlthau explains it, it is the identification and selection of a general idea or course of study. I often times find myself talking with my closest friends or classmates about the possible topics, seeing what they have to say about that may give me further ideas of course of action. This also helps me gauge to see how many resources are available for each possible idea – since the more resources the better the search will be. And I can confirm with my own personal experience that anxiety definitely builds the longer I put off making the selection, which leads into the confusion, frustration and doubt of the next stage.

Exploration

Exploration includes a lot of research, as the title suggests. Its exploring all the little ideas and trying to pinpoint your thesis. As mentioned in the article, I often find myself struggling to communicate my thoughts at this point which only makes the searching for information harder. It is definitely one of the most consuming parts of the searching process. In the “dip of confidence” it helps me to map out my ideas, write them out, or talk them over with some – saying things out loud helps you think about it on another level.

Focus Formulation

After hours of exploration and research, a common theme, idea or thesis becomes evident and clear. Formulation is the turn from anxiety and uncertainty to optimism and clarity. Often this is the point of a renewed sense of energy for me, and my research starts to make sense and have a personal meaning.

Collection

Once the focus is formulated, its becomes much easier for me to hone my research and thus as Dr. Kuhlthau explains, be more effective and efficient. At this point I also focus on finding a variety of sources, depending on the topic or thesis.

Presentation

In this final step, I definitely get a feeling of satisfaction and pride for my finished work. And also breath a sigh of relief as the problem reaches conclusion and is resolved.