Solving information-based problems: Evaluating sources and information

The focus of this special section is on the processes involved when solving information-based problems. Solving these problems requires from people that they are able to define the information problem, search and select usable and reliable sources and information and synthesise information into a coherent body of knowledge. An important aspect throughout the whole search process is the critical evaluation of sources and information. Evaluation processes are of particular importance when searching information on the Internet, because of the masses of information, and the open publication principle of the Internet. The articles in the present special section take different perspectives in studying the evaluation processes. Influencing factors such as students' domain-specific prior knowledge, metatextual knowledge, and students' epistemic beliefs are addressed. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.