Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

• Nahid Safari ¹
• Zohreh Mirhosseini ²
• Zahra Abazari ³

¹ Ph.D. Student in Knowledge and Information Science, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran

² Associate Professor, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran

³ Professor, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

This study investigated the information-seeking behavior of art researchers in the process of searching for information on the web. This study is semi-experimental. It was conducted using observation, interview, and statistical analysis methods. The statistical population consisted of 48 art researchers who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through Camtasia software to record the search process, semi-structured interviews to examine cognitive strategies, and a standard information-seeking behavior questionnaire to measure related variables. Two search tasks were assigned to the participants: easy (finding a Latin article about Iranian art) and difficult (finding a related job opportunity abroad), and data analysis was performed using the Chi-square test. The findings showed that in easy searches, participants mainly used faster and more superficial strategies such as extensive use of the Google search engine (with a frequency of 976) and formulating search terms from general to specific. In contrast, in difficult searches, researchers resorted to more advanced analytical methods such as repeated modification of search terms, use of Boolean operators, and reference to specialized databases. The statistical data analysis showed that the total number of strategies adopted in the second task was 976 in the easy style and 959 in the difficult style, for a total of 1935 strategies, indicating that the level of complexity of the search tasks has a direct impact on the strategies used by researchers. This highlights the need to optimize information retrieval systems based on the needs of users and the level of complexity of their searches.

Introduction

This study examines the information-seeking behavior of art researchers when dealing with simple and complex search tasks. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the field and the need for multimedia resources, researchers face specific challenges in accessing information. Using a semi-experimental approach and employing observation, interviews, and questionnaires, the study aims to contribute to the development of more efficient information systems and specialized training for this user group.
 

Literature Review

Information seeking behavior is a key concept in information science and human interaction with information sources that has attracted significant attention from researchers in interdisciplinary fields, especially art, in recent years. Previous studies have shown that various factors, such as the complexity of search tasks, users' previous experiences, cognitive styles, and familiarity with tools and databases have a significant impact on the way people search for information (Savolainen, 2018; Mitsui et al., 2017; Humbhi & Tareen, 2022). In this context, information-seeking behavior in the field of art is associated with specific challenges such as the need for non-textual sources, multimedia content, and interdisciplinary approaches that have been less systematically studied (Pergantis et al., 2023; Masinde et al., 2020). In addition, examining the role of psychological variables such as self-efficacy, anxiety, and metacognitive strategies in the information seeking process has also been considered in some studies (Noorzadeh and Noormohammadi, 1400). Recent findings emphasize the need for a deeper analysis of researchers' interaction with information retrieval systems and the factors affecting the choice of search strategies.

Methodology

This study employed a semi-experimental design to investigate the information-seeking behavior of 48 purposively selected art researchers. Data collection included search file analysis, event recording, and behavioral observation using Camtasia Studio. Participants, all holding a master’s or doctoral degree in an art discipline and with prior research experience, were assigned two tasks: a simple search (finding a Latin article on Iranian art) and a complex one (finding an international job related to their field). Selection criteria also included adequate computer skills and willingness to participate.

Results

In order to conduct the research, the researcher assigned two types of search tasks to the subjects and observed and analyzed their behavior and perspectives during the information search and retrieval process. The methods of observing the respondents' information search and retrieval behavior and search tasks are as follows:

a) Search tasks: In this study, search tasks are divided into two categories: easy and difficult. In the easy task, the user searches for general information about a general topic, and in the difficult task, the user seeks specialized information about a specific topic. The easy search task is usually accompanied by the continuous use of browsing, while the difficult search task requires the use of analytical search strategies. In the present study, these two tasks were characterized by general and specialized levels. Therefore, in the easy task, the minimum level of complexity was considered, and in the difficult task, there is more complexity. All searches performed by users were recorded with the help of computer screen capture software (Table 1).

b) Observation: It refers to the process of identifying, recording, naming, comparing, and analyzing what is happening. The key point in conducting an observation is to accurately and completely define the subject being observed.

The entire process of searching and retrieving information by each subject was recorded using screen capture software. Necessary notes were taken of each subject's searching process by reviewing the captured files several times and taking notes of the searching and retrieving information process.

Discussion

This study explored how art researchers adapt their search strategies based on task complexity, revealing that simpler tasks led to basic, fast-paced techniques (e.g., broad queries via Google), while complex tasks triggered more advanced approaches like iterative refinement and the use of specialized databases. Although strategy frequency was similar across tasks (976 for simple, 959 for complex), statistical analysis confirmed significant behavioral differences linked to task difficulty. The findings highlight the need for adaptive, user-centered search systems and targeted training in digital literacy. Consistent with prior research, the study emphasizes the influence of cognitive and experiential factors, advocating for further inquiry into psychological variables and intelligent search system design to better support art researchers.

Conclusion

This study concludes that task complexity significantly influences the search strategies of art researchers, with simple tasks leading to intuitive methods and complex ones requiring more analytical approaches. The results stress the need for adaptive, user-focused information systems and specialized training to strengthen digital search capabilities. Future research should consider cognitive and psychological aspects to deepen insights into search behavior and improve information retrieval in the arts.
Acknowledgments
I extend my deepest appreciation to Dr. Zohreh Mirhosseini for her exceptional guidance, insightful feedback, and unwavering support, which played a pivotal role in the successful completion of this study.

Keywords

• information seeking behavior
• search strategies
• information retrieval
• art researchers
• information analysis

Main Subjects

• Information Storage and Retrieval