Types of queries in RI
ˇ Directional
l e.g., Where are the
photocopiers?
l 30-50% of all questions
l 1 minute or less
ˇ Ready reference –
“factoid” questions
l e.g., Who is the prime
minister of China?
l 50-60%
l 90% can be answered
using standard
references; 10%
ˇ Specific-search
l e.g., Where can I find
information on sexism
in business?
l 20%-40%
l Depends on sources
available
ˇ Research Questions
l c.f., information ecology
l very low frequency
l Depends, but generally
longer and more
challenging (and fun)