CIBERABSTRACTS

The cognitive approach to 'information behaviour' centres upon the idea of meaning. Meaning is involved not only in all aspects of information generation, transfer and use, but also in the way people define themselves, their lives and their actions. The cognitive approach, therefore, draws attention to the need for a bridge between the meanings of everyday life and the information that may have relevance for everyday life. In this sense, of course, 'everyday life' is different for every person-for some it may involve research as an everyday activity, for others the practice of a profession, for others, involvement in business and commerce. The aim of this paper will be to explore these concepts in the context of research into information behaviour in the everyday world of work, where individuals may be constrained to a greater or lesser degree in their ability to define the content, direction and function of their work and where the diversity of roles may prevent the emergence of coherent groups capable of expressing clear needs for information support. De Mey's presentation of the 'cognitive paradigm' will be examined and parallels to elements of such a 'paradigm' will be sought in the world of work. Throughout, the paper will draw upon the author's present and past research. (AU)