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Diffusion of information behaviour theory into education for reference service

Introduction. This paper reports on part of a larger study, specifically on the information behaviour theories used in foundational reference and information services courses in North America. Method. Content analysis of syllabi, reading lists and textbooks from foundational reference courses was conducted. Analysis. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of documents was conducted to identify specific information behaviour theories. Results. The most mentioned information behaviour theories in reference courses are similar to those most mentioned in studies of information behaviour research, including Kuhlthau’s information search process and Savolainen’s everyday life information seeking. Conclusions. Students in courses that discuss information behaviour theories are being exposed to the most impactful information behaviour theories, but still only two-thirds of courses include them.