The autonomous turn in information behaviour

Introduction. Autonomous, intelligent information systems and agents are becoming ubiquitous and appear to engage in information behaviours that constitute a new model or framework. Methods. By examining the nature of artificial intelligence systems and their algorithmic basis, a description of autonomous information behaviour is proposed. Analysis. While autonomous and human information behaviours utilize both similar and different strategies, they share the same objectives with respect to information need and use. Results. A preliminary model of autonomous information behaviour is proposed, and selected features of that model are compared with existing human behaviour models. Conclusion. Autonomous, intelligent agents and systems engage in new forms of information behaviour. Creating information behaviour models or frameworks from these systems will not only contribute to their understanding but also facilitate the development of more effective and equitable systems.