How Do Lay Users Seek Information with ChatGPT: An In-Situ Interview Study

Large language model tools such as ChatGPT are increasingly used for information seeking in place of traditional search engines. However, limited research is available regarding how lay users search for and evaluate information using ChatGPT. By using scenario-based interviews, this study explores how lay users employ ChatGPT for information seeking in-situ, addressing a significant research gap. Sixteen participants completed a set of search tasks and reflected how they sought and evaluated information. The findings demonstrate that although the information seeking process and techniques resembled those commonly used in other information seeking systems, many techniques were missing. While ChatGPT's responses may reduce cognitive barriers in the information seeking process, lay users face challenges in effectively framing prompts and have concerns over transparency of information source and information quality.