Young adults’ information behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic: a pilot study

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a pilot study exploring the information behaviour of young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pilot study data were collected using semi-structured interviews with five undergraduate students. Questions included what information was needed regarding COVID-19, where and how it was obtained, and how it was evaluated. Analysis. Coding followed a thematic analysis approach. At this early stage, coding involved emergent open coding to identify themes within the data. The information most needed by the participants related to local policies and restrictions (e.g., lockdowns, mask mandates, university policies) as well as policies relating to international travel. The main health related topic was where to get vaccinated. Participants preferred government, university, and mainstream media sources, while largely avoiding social media. They reported various approaches to determining the credibility of sources, including relying on known sites, and prioritizing first-hand sources such as government and public health. Participants also reported that their credibility assessment varied geographically, with government and mainstream media more or less trusted depending on location. The findings provide insight into young adults’ information behaviour, and provide the basis for the continuation of this study.