Does domain knowledge influence search stopping behavior?

Abstract

This research study investigated whether users' level of domain knowledge influenced their decision to stop information searches. Stopping behavior was investigated using a convenience sample of 15 third- and fourth-year undergraduate students at a large university. Subjects completed a series of self-assessments about background information and levels of knowledge regarding four search domains. Subjects completed search tasks in four search domains and task times were measured. Tasks were counterbalanced among subjects. Subjects completed questionnaires about search experiences and reasons for stopping and participated in exit interviews. The study results indicated: (1) No association between knowledge level and stopping behavior (task times); (2) Positive correlation between levels of domain knowledge and levels of domain interest; (3) Positive correlation between satisfaction with the search process and the retrieved results; and (4) Negative correlation between satisfaction with search results and task times.