Tampere University / University of Tampere

Department Member, School of Information Sciences

Thesis Title: Information seeking and interest in the paranormal: Towards a process model of information action

About

Following mainstream research trends (i.e. sticking to the familiar and the safe) and publishing as much as possible (i.e. regardless of excellence) has never been enough for me. Indeed, I would consider such an easy approach as a waste of my gifts. First of all, I deem the quality of research more important than its quantity. Secondly, I am absolutely at my best when exploring uncharted territories, blazing new trails, and pushing the limits of knowledge. It is my calling to be a totally dedicated spearhead of scientific innovation.

My research program involves three interrelated themes: the roles of information (from the individual to the global level), spirituality (vis-à-vis information and science), and positive science (scholarship approaching human phenomena from the perspective of strengths and opportunities rather than weaknesses and threats). In terms of context, out-of-the-ordinary, alternative, 'higher', and holistic perspectives on information phenomena are my speciality. I have published articles and delivered conference papers on the following topics:

- information seeking related to the paranormal
- Web searching for personal development
- research needs related to developing the services of university libraries
- the positive in information science
- information use
- outcomes of spiritual information
- spirituality and science

Currently, my main research project is the roles (e.g. uses and effects) of spiritual information. For more information about this study, please see the abstract in the "papers" section. I would love to cooperate with other scholars whose research is related to any aspect of my research.

The courses I have taught have concentrated on the basics of information studies: information seeking, organizing information, public libraries, information history, and doing research. I would be especially willing to teach university students about subjects belonging to my present areas of research: outcomes/roles of information (information use, effects of information, etc.), positivity, or the spiritual.

NOTE 1: You can find my academic career record and publications in the CV. For the time being, the "papers" and "teaching documents" sections of my site contain some resources related to research and teaching, respectively.

NOTE 2: I need to find a new job, preferably in Canada....

Contact Information