A SOCIO-COGNITIVE APPROACH TO TEACHING INDEXING AND ABSTRACTING: BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN INFORMATION RETRIEVAL RESEARCH AND PRAXIS.

A socio-cognitive approach to document representation in addition to the systems-orientated approach might solve problems in information retrieval (IR). If introduced in a simplified and pragmatic manner in the teaching of indexing and abstracting, it might also help to bridge the gap between IR theory and indexing and abstracting praxis. The purpose of information retrieval systems (IRSs), information retrieval and the problems with IR research is considered as background to a socio-cognitive approach. Academic interpretations of the socio-cognitive approach as well as a simplified interpretation more suitable to teaching practice are considered. The latter is used to suggest a model of learning content, a constructivistic learning environment, learning experiences based on collaborative learning, and portfolio assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]