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Brookes equation: The basis for a qualitative characterization of information behaviours

Bawden, D. (2011). Brookes equation: The basis for a qualitative characterization of information behaviours. Journal of Information Science, 37(1), pp. 101-108. doi: 10.1177/0165551510395351

Abstract

Brookes equation, which has hitherto been regarded as a kind of non-mathematical shorthand description of information use, is extended so as to show the qualitative pattern of information access. Information inputs are represented by a simple power law, and changes in knowledge structure by possible changes to a simple mental map. The resulting pattern shows seven forms of information input and three forms of change in knowledge structure, giving 21 categories overall. These have the potential for use as an explanatory tool and taxonomy for studying and summarizing information behaviour, and offer the possibility of being developed into more sophisticated and quantitative treatments.

Publication Type: Article
Publisher Keywords: Brookes equation, cognitive paradigm, power laws, mental maps, information behaviour
Subjects: Z Bibliography. Library Science. Information Resources > Z665 Library Science. Information Science
Departments: School of Communication & Creativity > Media, Culture & Creative Industries > Library & Information Science
SWORD Depositor:
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