The structure, objectives, and findings of a study of scientific information exchange in psychology

The general objective of this study was to develop a description of the scientific information exchange environment in psychology by determining the responsibilities of the persons and institutions associated with the origination, transmission, storage, and use of scientific information; the characteristics of the processes involved in the fulfillment of each of these functions and of the storage properties they afford; and, finally, the utilization of scientific information. To accomplish this objective sixteen specific studies were designed of which nine are available as technical reports. Findings trace the dissemination of information from initiation of research through archival publication (stressing that type of communication occurring at conventions); discuss access to and use of archival media; and determine the characteristics of the user's behavior in his search for and use of needed information. Subsequent work will emphasize the user's behavior and will develop and test communication innovations which seem practical and desirable.