Research Journal

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Information Search Process

Initiation is generally the hardest phase for me when it comes to research, I would almost rather be given a topic than have to choose one. I find it frustrating and get anxious that I am going to choose a topic that there will not be enough information or that there will be too much information to narrow down. I normally start searching the Internet to get an idea of what information is available on the topic. Many times I have found myself not searching in depth enough to determine rather it is usable information or not and regret it later. I agree with Kuhlthau that much uncertainty comes from this process.

Once the selection has been made I generally feel a little relief, but am still anxious and question myself rather I have chosen a “good” topic.

During the exploration of the topic I have chosen I generally feel overwhelmed with the amount of information and in what direction the research takes me. I usually feel unorganized at this point and have a hard time keeping track of the useful and not so useful information. I have found myself “in the dip” many times during this phase, where I don’t have much confidence in what I am doing. I think this is when I might benefit from intervention and guidance.

The formulation stage is usually where I am gaining confidence that I have chosen a good topic and the research starts to come together. The anxious feeling seems to be gone at this point and my efforts seem to be rewarding. I usually have narrowed my sources down to the most informative ones that can guide me through the rest of the project I am working on.

In the collection process I usually feel the pressure that my deadline is approaching and I start questioning my focus. I’m not sure that I agree with Kuhlthau that this is a feeling of confidence. I find it difficult and time consuming to put the information in a format that is useful for the project I am working on.

When I finally reach the presentation I normally have a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment.

After reading this article I have an understanding that my feelings, rather they be anxiety, frustration, or sense of accomplishment and satisfaction are completely normal during the research process. I think I need to take advantage of resources as far as help during the “zone of intervention”, this might help reduce my frustration