Enabling the student to write a good thesis : combining information retrieval with the writing process

Abstract

Working from the information retrieval model of Carol Kuhlthau (2004), and the pedagogical approach to writing of Bean (1996) and Dysthe (1999), we put their theories into practice. Through the project ”Digital literacy through flexible learning: Information search and use of information sources in writing theses”, we are developing a web-based learning system called ”Søk & Skriv” (Search and Write)1, which is especially designed for distance learning students at postgraduate level. The focus of this paper is on the students’ writing process. We regard this process as of major importance, since access to the academic community lies in the skills of writing and using information retrieval as an instrument to present one’s own research.