How to study children searching for fun: some experiences and reflections

In this position paper we argue for the need to develop a scientific framework for investigations of children’s searches for fun. We believe that an exploration of the potential of aesthetic relevance is worthy of further attention. We also report on insights gained on searching for fun during studies of children's information seeking behaviour in schools. To provide context for our studies and to understand more about children's interests and motivations we carried out short investigations of the children's information preferences and searching activities in their leisure time. Our findings indicate significant differences in information needs and searching style from adults and highlight the challenges posed when considering a study of this behaviour.