Abstract

This study explores the social aspects of task-based information seeking behavior by applying the theory of cognitive sociology. Specifically, it examines the influence of the social context of individual tasks on information seeking behavior by utilizing key concepts of cognitive sociology, such as thought communities and sociomental acts. In this study, academic disciplines were selected as the types of thought communities. A comparative analysis was conducted between two groups chosen -six from the humanities and six from the natural sciences- focusing on their individual understanding and actions regarding a specific type of common task in academics, research proposal writing. As a qualitative study, data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, supplemented by a diary study. The results indicate that the social norms and practices of thought communities influence the cognitive activities and information behavior that occur during task performance. Based on these findings, the study reveals the existence of a socio-cognitive domain in information seeking behavior. This study enhances the understanding of the cognitive sociological aspects of information seeking behavior and can serve as a foundational resource for the development of information services and systems tailored to professionals and sociocultural groups.