Symmetrical Model of Information Interactions: Redefining the Weight of Technology in Information Interactions

Document Type : Research َ Article

Authors

1 PhD Candidate, Knowledge & Information Science, Shahid Chamran University, Ahwaz

2 Associate Professor, Knowledge and Information Science, Razi University, Kermanshah,

3 Assistant Professor at the Research Institute of Information Science and Technology of Iran (Irandoc)

Abstract

Purpose: This study was conducted with a holistic approach to reviewing and redefining the process of interaction with information.
Method: Data was collected by semi-structured interviews with 18 social and humanities researchers and analyzed by thematic analysis.
Findings: Thematic network of information interactions consists of 5 global themes. In this network, with symmetry as one of the global themes, we found four other themes, ie opening, orientation, networking, and consolidation. Symmetry results in a relatively balanced view on the influence of human and non-human in information interactions. It prevents human or non-human agents to exert absolute domination of the interaction. In the symmetric model of information interactions, three layers of contexts, including internal-cognitive context, external-environmental contexts, and technology-tool are decisive.
Conclusion: The new view of interacting with information goes beyond mere interpretation from the perspective of the human user and sees it alongside in human factors. As a result of such an approach, non-human factors in the role of infrastructure and technology context, along with human factors, external and internal context have clear and interpretable effects.

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References

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Librarianship and Information Organization Studies
Volume 31, Issue 4 - Serial Number 124
February 2021
Pages 114-135

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History

  • Receive Date: 24 September 2020
  • Revise Date: 08 October 2020
  • Accept Date: 24 November 2020

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