Understanding Information Search Behavior of Digital Natives: A Think Aloud Study Based on Information Search Process and Information Foraging

Abstract

The ubiquity of information, digitalization of services and changing information landscape is making it ever more challenging for users to navigate through the increasing overflow of information. Digital natives, currently concerning most of the younger population in developed countries, have grown up in the information age surrounded by different technologies. While claimed to be skilled in the use of most digital tools, they face difficulties maintaining focus, often resulting in multitasking. This case study on digital natives attempts to answer the following question: What characterizes digital natives’ information search behavior? The model of information search process and information foraging theory function as a foundation of this research while the think aloud method is used for collecting data from participants while solving a set of generic search tasks. Four characteristics emerged through thematic analysis describing the search behavior of digital natives and have wide-ranging implications for theory and practice, including informing the design of user interfaces and information systems. Digital natives are considered to adapt their search behavior to the changing information landscape, including application of supportive strategies to counter the overflow of information, increasing need for trust, use of emerging sources as well as constantly learning to balance in the evolving environment.