Unit 1 - Context for studying information science

What are the three main variables that Information Science focuses on?

Human beings, information, and communication.

Why is information crucial for human beings?

People depend on information for recreation, task performance, decision-making, and problem-solving.

What role does an information scientist play in the communication of information?

An information scientist looks at problems in communication scientifically and solves them to provide the right information at the right time, in the right package, for the right person, so that the right decision can be made.

What is a "frame of reference" in the context of Information Science?

A frame of reference is the context or background against which discussions take place, helping to clarify basic assumptions or generalizations.

What is the subject in Information Science?

The subject is a living, conscious, and functioning person who is aware of being in the world and of things happening in their mind and body.

How do we become aware of other people according to the worldview?

We become aware of other people through our senses, observing their external characteristics directly and making deductions about their internal state based on their behavior.

What are objects in the context of Information Science?

Objects are things external to the subject that can be observed through the senses, including both natural and human-made objects.

What is reductionism, and how is it used in Information Science?

Reductionism is the method of explaining complex objects by comparing them to something simpler that is thoroughly understood, though it can lead to misleading results if differences are overlooked.

What is a system in the context of Information Science?

A system consists of objects in mutual relationships, where processes or events occur due to the interaction between these objects.

What role does phenomenology play in Information Science?

Phenomenology is the view that people know only phenomena or appearances as observed through the senses, not the objects themselves.

What is empiricism, and how does it relate to Information Science?

Empiricism is the belief that knowledge is based on sensory perception, with sense data forming the basis of our understanding of objects.

What does atomism attempt to do in the context of Information Science?

Atomism attempts to understand the world by breaking objects into smaller units, a method known as analysis.

How does Information Science view the relationship between the subject and objects?

Information Science views the subject (the person who observes and thinks) as distinct from objects (things outside the mind), with the mind-body model emphasizing the connection between the mind and physical components like the brain and senses.

Why is it important to consider both similarities and differences between objects in Information Science?

Similarities help illuminate connections between objects, but differences are equally important for understanding the true nature of each object.

What are the main dimensions of events or processes in Information Science?

The temporal dimension (relating to time) and the spatial dimension (relating to three-dimensional space).

How does the environment influence systems in Information Science?

The environment within which a system functions can influence the system’s behavior and outcomes.

What is operations research in the context of Information Science?

Operations research is the study of system functioning, focusing on optimizing processes and decision-making within systems.

What is the significance of sensory perception in Information Science?

Sensory perception is the foundation for acquiring knowledge and understanding the information phenomenon within the context of human experience.

How does the behaviourist approach acquire knowledge in Information Science?

The behaviourist approach acquires knowledge by observing and interpreting the behavior of others, though it is not always reliable.

What is the difference between scholarly knowledge and "folk" knowledge in Information Science?

Scholarly knowledge is scientifically tested and validated, while "folk" knowledge is based on everyday experience and not scientifically verified.

How does Information Science differentiate between direct and indirect communication of information?

Direct communication occurs when information is conveyed directly from one person to another, while indirect communication involves the use of mediums such as books or digital records.

What problems arise when collecting and using information according to Information Science?

Problems include too much information, irrelevant information, outdated information, duplicated information, language issues, disorganized information, and unsystematic information.

How does Information Science help in decision-making processes?

Information Science provides the right information in the right format at the right time to help individuals and organizations make informed decisions.

What is the importance of context in Information Science?

Context helps explain the full meaning of information and the circumstances in which it exists or takes place.

How does Information Science view the relationship between the mind and body?

Information Science views the mind and body as interconnected, with the mind relying on physical components like the brain and senses for its function.

What are the three main variables that Information Science focuses on?

Human beings, information, and communication.

Why is information considered essential in decision-making, problem-solving, and task performance?

Because a person depends on information for these activities.

What problems can arise when collecting and using information?

Problems include too much information, irrelevant information, dated information, duplicated information, language problems, disorganized information, and unsystematic information.

What is the primary task of an information scientist?

To solve problems related to the communication and organization of information to provide the right information at the right time, in the right package, to the right person.

Define a 'frame of reference' in the context of Information Science.

A frame of reference is the context or connection in which discussions take place and the background against which phenomena are viewed.

What is the role of assumptions or generalizations in determining a frame of reference?

They help in finding the main topics to discuss among a myriad of details, even though there may be exceptions.

How does Information Science relate to a generally accepted worldview or approach to reality?

It is accepted as a science against the background of a standardised view of science, involving subjects, other people, objects, systems, phenomenology, empiricism, and atomism.

Who is considered a 'subject' in Information Science?

A living, conscious, and functioning person who is aware of being in the world.

What is meant by 'other people' in the study of Information Science?

Other people are those who exist outside the subject and are like the subject in certain ways; we become aware of them through sensory observation.

What approach is used to deduce what goes on inside other people?

The behaviorist approach, which makes deductions based on observed external characteristics and behavior.

How do we experience 'other objects' in the world?

Through sensory awareness of nonhuman entities, including living objects like plants and animals, and inanimate objects like water and mountains.

What is 'reductionism' and what problem does it present in Information Science?

Reductionism is the method of explaining the functions of something by comparing it to something else, which may oversimplify and mislead understanding by ignoring differences between objects.

What are 'systems' in the context of Information Science?

Systems are objects in mutual relationships that influence each other, leading to events or processes.

What is 'operations research' concerned with?

The study of how systems function within their environment.

Give an example of a human system and an information system.

A human system example is the nervous system, and an information system example is a library.

What does 'phenomenology' suggest about our understanding of objects?

It suggests that we only know objects as they appear to us through our senses, not as they exist independently.

What is 'empiricism' in the context of Information Science?

The belief that knowledge is based on sensory perception, and that sensory data forms the basis of our knowledge of objects.

What is the concept of 'atomism'?

Atomism is the idea of understanding the world by breaking objects into smaller units, such as atoms or sense data.

How do human beings create and communicate information according to Information Science?

Human beings generate their own information based on their knowledge and experience and communicate it directly or indirectly to others.

What role do sensory experiences play in Information Science?

Sensory experiences provide the direct basis for acquiring information, which is then organized in the brain and contributes to knowledge.

What is the significance of recorded information in human history?

Recorded information allows knowledge to persist beyond the lifespan of those who originally possessed it, making it a reliable source over time.

How is information based on indirect experience different from direct experience?

Indirect experience involves information received through media or records, rather than direct sensory interaction with the environment.

What is the relationship between natural information and human-made information?

Natural information is based on direct sensory observation, while human-made information can be based on either direct or indirect experience and may involve imagination or interpretation.

Why is the mind-body model significant in Information Science?

It explains the interaction between the physical components of the body and the cognitive functions of the mind in processing and understanding information.

What is the difference between scientific and untested knowledge in the context of Information Science?

Scientific knowledge is based on tested and validated observations, while untested knowledge, sometimes referred to as "folk" knowledge, is not scientifically proven.

What is the main focus of Information Science?

The study of how humans interact with information and the processes involved in communication, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Why is information considered vital in decision-making?

Information provides the necessary context and knowledge to make informed decisions.

Explain the role of an information scientist.

To ensure that relevant information is effectively communicated to the right person at the right time for decision-making and problem-solving.

What does it mean to repackage information?

Reformatting or presenting information in a way that is more accessible or useful to the intended audience.

Define 'information communication'

The process of transmitting information from one entity to another.

What problems might arise during information communication?

Misinterpretation, loss of information, or information overload.

What are the key elements of the frame of reference in Information Science?

Basic assumptions or generalizations used to identify the main points of a discussion.

What is a system in the context of Information Science?

A set of interrelated components working together to process and communicate information.

How does reductionism benefit Information Science?

It simplifies complex phenomena, making them easier to understand and manage.

What does it mean to have a holistic view of information?

Considering all aspects and interactions of information within its broader context.

Why is it important to identify the main points in a discussion?

To ensure clarity and focus on the most relevant information.

What role do assumptions play in Information Science?

They form the basis for understanding and interpreting information.

What is the difference between data and information?

Data are raw facts, while information is processed data that has meaning and context.

Why is context important in information processing?

Context helps to give meaning to the information, making it relevant and useful.

Explain the concept of information overload.

When the amount of information exceeds the ability to process it, leading to confusion or inaction.

What is the importance of communication channels in information science?

They determine how effectively information is transmitted and received.

How can information be distorted?

Through miscommunication, noise, or biases in the communication process.

What does it mean to personalize information?

Tailoring information to meet the specific needs of an individual or group.

What is an information system?

A coordinated set of components that collect, store, and process information to support decision-making.

How does feedback improve information communication?

It allows for adjustments to be made, ensuring the information is correctly understood.

What is the role of technology in Information Science?

It facilitates the processing, storage, and communication of information.

How does culture influence information communication?

It shapes the way information is perceived, understood, and valued.

Why is it important to evaluate the quality of information?

To ensure it is accurate, reliable, and relevant to the task at hand.

What challenges do information scientists face in the digital age?

Managing vast amounts of data, ensuring privacy, and combating misinformation.

How can information scientists support decision-making in organizations?

By providing timely, accurate, and relevant information tailored to the organization’s needs.