Issues arising from youngsters' information-seeking behavior

Much of the research on the information-seeking behavior of young people has examined either the degree to which they use particular providers or the manner in which they exploit such sources or materials. Considerably less attention has focused on the identification of generic characteristics that relate to the use of a range of information sources. Nevertheless, a recent qualitative research project undertaken in England has revealed that a variety of patterns appear to emerge even when sources of different types are used. While a few are indicative of the nature of the information-seeking process itself, some pertain to users' information-seeking problems and others to patterns of behavior. Many of the recurring features of user behavior reflect attempts by youngsters to simplify the task of information seeking and reduce the effort expended. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.