An Introduction to Algorithmic and Cognitive Approaches for Information Retrieval

This paper provides an overview of two, complementary approaches to the design and implementation of information retrieval systems. The first approach focuses on the algorithms and data structures that are needed to maximise the effectiveness and the efficiency of the searches that can be carried out on text databases, while the second adopts a cognitive approach that focuses on the role of the user and of the knowledge sources involved in information retrieval. The paper argues for an holistic view of information retrieval that is capable of encompassing both of these approaches.