Searching for information: applying usability testing methods to a study of information retrieval and relevance assessment

Theresa Anderson
theresa.anderson@uts.edu.au

This paper discusses research in progress that explores the relevance assessments of researchers using networked information systems. To date, two academics are participating in an intensive qualitative exploration of their search for information related to personal research projects. This paper discusses the application of usability testing techniques and a formal usability laboratory to the observation of searching and relevance assessments. Early findings suggest integrating usability testing and information studies research can help build our understanding of individual retrieval experiences.