Sequential/Spatial, a Survey of Interactive Information Retrieval Methods for Controlled Experimentation and Evaluation

TL;DR

This survey reviews studies comparing non-spatial and spatial information retrieval systems, focusing on user behavior, performance, and interface design, highlighting how information theory and psychology inform IIR evaluation methods.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of interactive information retrieval methods, emphasizing the integration of information theory and cognitive psychology in experimental design and evaluation.

Findings

Spatial systems influence user navigation and satisfaction.

Information theory aids in understanding foraging and exploration behaviors.

Evaluation methodologies vary across studies, impacting comparability.

Abstract

This survey presents studies that investigated non-spatial (sequential) and spatial information retrieval systems in parallel during a battery of information-seeking tasks with respect to user navigational behaviors, incidental learning, retrieval performance, cognitive abilities & load, direct manipulation of 2D & 3D interfaces, and satisfaction. I consider how information theory has contributed to the concepts of foraging, sense-making, exploration, and how the applied areas of interactive information retrieval (IIR) and cognitive/behavioral psychology have implemented these concepts into architecture, interface design, experimental design, user study, and evaluation methodology.