Identifying Factors Affecting Electronic Learning in Information Retrieval

The field of providing information and the method of publishing information has permanently been subject to modification and alteration, and as we know, with the introduction of computer technology in the field of librarianship and the change in the way of providing services, the imperative task of information dissemination has been reserved for librarians. The dissemination of information technology into the education system has led to the emergence of a new concept called e-learning. The task of libraries is to provide infrastructures for information retrieval through the production of integration, organization, and distribution of knowledge. The methods that libraries employ for e-learning include learning collections, tools, and facilities necessary for studying, improving the quality of reference services, and ensuring universal access to books. Therefore, this research aims to identify the factors influencing e-learning in information retrieval.

This current research is developmental was conducted using a qualitative approach and grounded theory. The population of the study consisted of 20 experts in the field of information technology in public libraries across the country, who were selected through purposive non-probability sampling. Data were collected through interviews and analyzed through three stages of open, axial, and selective coding, based on which the research model was designed.

The findings showed that e-learning in information retrieval contains of six main dimensions, 45 sub-dimensions, and 85 concepts, which are presented in a paradigm model including causal factors (quality of e-learning website design, quality of education in e-learning environments, employees' enthusiasm for developing knowledge capabilities, employees' belief in continuous training), contextual factors (suitable technical equipment (hardware, software, and network), availability of necessary infrastructure, high accessibility, periodic purchase of required equipment, ease of learning and simplicity of teaching platforms (instructors)), interveners (competence of instructors in course delivery, course development based on indigenous data, organizational culture and atmosphere), central factors (strategies for enhancing the quality of e-learning in information retrieval, processes for improving the quality of e-learning in information retrieval, infrastructures for improving the quality of e-learning in information retrieval), strategic factors (existence of an appropriate incentive system for promoting knowledge sharing (systemic strategy), security of software used (educational approach), efficient support and feedback mechanisms (responsiveness strategy)), and consequences (consistency of goals and plans, adequate understanding of e-learning, formulation of standards, capability in information retrieval).

Based on the dimensions, main factors, and sub-factors, the impacts of e-learning in information retrieval can be measured and managed in the studied community.