Information science: communication chain and domain analysis

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to derive a conceptual model for information science, which is both academically sound and practically useful, particularly for curriculum design.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a conceptual analysis, based on an extensive literature review, going back to the earliest days of information science.

Findings

A conceptual model is derived, based on the study of components of the information chain through approaches of domain analysis, plus “fringe” topics and a meta‐level consideration of the discipline itself. Links to related subjects may be derived systematically from this model.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to suggest that a useful model for information science can be derived, based on the idea of studying the communication chain by means of domain analysis.

Citation

Robinson, L. (2009), "Information science: communication chain and domain analysis", Journal of Documentation, Vol. 65 No. 4, pp. 578-591. https://doi.org/10.1108/00220410910970267