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Task-based information seeking as a constructive process : a study of Chinese ESL students
Author
Ellis, Mary
Supervisor
Bopry, Jeanette
Abstract
Using Kuhlthau's information search process, a task-based model which includes predictable actions, thoughts and feelings, this study investigated a group of 56 Chinese ESL students of different English language proficiency aged 17-19, as they completed an academic writing research task. They were enrolled in an academic English preparatory course at the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. The qualitative study, supported in part by descriptive statistics, examined the extent that these ESL students experienced Kuhlthau‟s model, their subsequent information-seeking behavior, and the impact of English language proficiency on their search process.
Data sources included a modified version of Kuhlthau's process survey, search diaries and interviews. Progress on the students‟ research was followed for 6 weeks in 2004 and 2005 as they completed a research assignment for an academic writing course. For the majority of these students, this was the first research paper they had written in English.
In general, the 3 groups in this investigation shared a more common than different experience of the research process and the information-seeking behaviors (feelings thoughts, and actions) predicted by Kuhlthau's information search process model. The cognitive and behavioral aspects of her model most clearly corresponded to those students who had an advanced level of English. Although the intermediate and lower level groups did not progress through the process as quickly as the advanced group in terms of their thoughts and actions, all 3 groups generally shared similar emotions regarding their information-seeking experience.
This study extends Kuhlthau's information search process model to a different cultural context and has implications for educators working with Chinese students, one of the largest groups enrolled in educational institutions internationally.
Data sources included a modified version of Kuhlthau's process survey, search diaries and interviews. Progress on the students‟ research was followed for 6 weeks in 2004 and 2005 as they completed a research assignment for an academic writing course. For the majority of these students, this was the first research paper they had written in English.
In general, the 3 groups in this investigation shared a more common than different experience of the research process and the information-seeking behaviors (feelings thoughts, and actions) predicted by Kuhlthau's information search process model. The cognitive and behavioral aspects of her model most clearly corresponded to those students who had an advanced level of English. Although the intermediate and lower level groups did not progress through the process as quickly as the advanced group in terms of their thoughts and actions, all 3 groups generally shared similar emotions regarding their information-seeking experience.
This study extends Kuhlthau's information search process model to a different cultural context and has implications for educators working with Chinese students, one of the largest groups enrolled in educational institutions internationally.
Date Issued
2009
Call Number
PE1128 Ell
Date Submitted
2009