The paper discusses the content of library and information studies, and possible definitions of "information science". Various types of investigation in this subject field are outlined, and the need for varied methodological expertise. The resulting difficulties for academic research are briefly discussed.
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References
1.
Though this article is in no way intended to be a "guide to research", a list of items found useful in its preparation is given below.
2.
Berelson, B., and Steiner, G.A.Human behaviour: an inventory of scientific findings. Harcourt Brace, 1964. A useful source-book.
3.
Debons, A. ed.Information science: search for identity. Dekker, I974. An uneven but stimulating collection of papers.
4.
Fairthorne, R.A.Festschrift. J. Doc., 30 (2) June I974. Particularly the papers by Brookes and Mooers.
5.
Good, C.V., and Scates, D.E.Methods of research: educational, psychological, social. Appleton, 1954.
6.
Havelock, R.G., and others. A comparative study of the literature on the dissemination and utilization of scientific knowledge. Michigan University , 1968. A comprehensive review of psychological, sociological and systems aspects.
7.
Kochen, M.Principles of information retrieval.
8.
Wiley, Becker and Hayes, 1974 . Ranges widely into information science.
9.
Kuhn, A.The study of society: a multidisciplinary approach. Tavistock, 1966.
10.
Ravetz, J.R.Scientific knowledge and its social problems. Clarendon Press, 1971.
11.
Saracevic, T. ed. Introduction to information science . Bowker, 1970. A valuable collection of papers exemplifying research in our field.
12.
Simon, J.L.Basic rescarch methods in social science. Random House, 1969.
13.
Thayer, L.Communication and communication systems in organisation, management, and interpersonal relations. Irwin, 1968.
14.
Vickery, B.C.Information systems. Butterworths, 1973. Oriented to practical and technical studies.
