Issues of becoming an Internet user primarily in non‐work contexts are discussed. The author reviews individual, social and economic factors motivating network use. Main findings of an empirical study based on the interviews of 23 Finns in 1997 are analysed. In addition, comparisons are made...

The author reflects the conceptual and practical questions of network competence in the context of information seeking. Network competence is seen as one of the information‐related competences and is defined as the mastery of four major areas: knowledge of information resources available on...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to specify the role of emotions played in information seeking and sharing taking place in online discussion forum. To this end, an explorative study was made that focussed on consumer awareness. Design/methodology/approach – The study is based on the...