The primary objective of this dissertation was the empirical investigation of relationships between information sources and perceived task characteristics. Relationships investigated included the stability of perceived task characteristics over time, the frequency with which particular information sources were used in situations described in the research questionnaire, and the relative stability of information source usage as individuals gained work experience. Questionnaires were administered to two samples over a three month period. One sample consisted of student nurses beginning their clinical rotations which are required for the baccalaureate degree in nursing. The second sample consisted of nurses who had just completed baccalaureate degrees and were beginning their first full-time employment since finishing their degrees. The data did not show a change in perceived task characteristics over time for either sample. Task characteristics as described by subjects during their initial periods of employment did not differ significantly from their description of the task characteristics following three months on the job. Differences in the frequency of information source usage indicated that the students had originally expected doctors and charge nurses to be frequently used sources of information. After being on their jobs for three months, students indicated that the instructor increased in overall frequency of use as an information source. Nurses indicated a decreased frequency of usage of the preceptor as an information source. Doctors and charge nurses were reported to be more frequently used sources of information among the nurses after three months of employment. Correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between the rated "importance" of information sources and the task characteristic measures. A minimal number of statistically significant correlations were found. Results generally supported changes in frequency of information source usage. Results of the study are discussed in light of previous task design and social information processing research. This discussion also includes strengths and limitations of the study. Potential directions for future research are also presented.
