Information needs and information-seeking behavior in developing countries: A review of the research

SummaryThis article reviews research that has been done on the information needs and information-seeking behavior of indigenous people in developing countries. The paper focuses on two types of user groups: urban dwellers and rural dwellers. By comparing their information-seeking behavior, conclusions about human information behavior in the developing world, as well as key factors that play a role in their information needs and behavior, are drawn. Findings reveal that, while a weak economy has a profound effect on the availability and accessibility of resources, the information and communication divide is not defined as much by the economic status of a geographic location as it is by an individual user's educational background.