Document Type : Research Paper
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to survey the four-fold aspects of information behavior (information need, information seeking behavior, information searching behavior and information use behavior) of the faculty members affiliated to Razi Universityin dealing with online information resource. The research method was survey and data was gathered by a questionnaire. The population included all faculty members of Razi University. Using random sampling, 204 individuals were selected as the sample. The results indicated that the most significant obstacles to the formation and expression of information needs of the faculty members of Razi University included, 1) the application of common words and idioms when searching for information, 2) the application of popular words when searching for information and general sense of confusion and doubt in the early stages of search and when encountering false drop of information. Also the most significant factors in creating information-seeking behaviors in the faculty members of Razi University include conducting reports and research designs, advising and counseling on the formulation of students' theses and participation in seminars and conferences. The most significant obstacles confronting information-searching behavior of Razi University faculty members respectively included, 1) low speed and internet connection and disconnection, 2) confusion and disorientation in the search for appropriate method for searching information ,and 3) confusion in determining information resources. The results showed that there was no significant difference between gender and information behavior among the faculty members. Moreover, among scientific ranks in terms of the four-fold aspects of information behavior, there was only a significant difference in "information seeking behavior". Furthermore, among the four age groups, there was only a significant difference in terms of "information searching behavior". In addition, the results indicated that there was a significant and positive relationship between the amounts of responsiveness of online information resources subscribed by the Razi University with the information needs of the university faculty members and also the satisfaction of this group with such information resources.
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