The socio - cognitive theory in information retrieval (IR)

Abstract Background and Aim: The socio-cognitive theory introduced in information science by Horland and Alberchtsen. The socio-cognitive view turns the traditional cognitive program upside down. The socio-cognitive theory emphasizes on different cultural and social structures of users. Hence, the aim of the article is to explain the role of socio - cognitive theory in information retrieval (IR). Method: The role of the socio - cognitive theory in information retrieval was determined by reviewing of relevant literature and identifying its concepts. The current research methodology is descriptive, analytical and theoretical. The research paradigm is qualitative. Results: The results revealed that the socio - cognitive theory can affect the information retrieval (IR), information behavior and relevancy. The socio - cognitive helps classification of a particular topic in information retrieval. It can change a thesaurus to ontology. Also, it can contribute to non-linguistic factors in understanding the meaning in ontologies and it can take account into the mediating factors in information-seeking behavior. Conclusion. The result of this study showed that we can not only examine issues related to information retrieval, relevancy and information behavior through the traditional cognitive views. We have to sure that all the cultures and social factors are examined in our studies about IR.