End-user interaction with thesaurus-enhanced search interfaces

Abstract

A major challenge faced by end-users during the information search and retrieval process is the selection of search terms for query formulation and expansion. Thesauri are recognised as one source of search terms with the potential to assist users in the process of term selection. Research in search term selection, query expansion and interface evaluation has stressed the importance of providing end-users with terminological assistance. As the number of thesauri attached to information retrieval systems has grown, a range of interface facilities and features have been developed to aid users in formulating their queries.