The different metrics of metric information studies: Epistemological evolution, interrelationships and representations

Abstract

Objective: Identify, analyze and offer a conceptual and historical clarification about metric studies of information’ subfields considering their objects and purposes of interest, as well as discuss their interrelationships from different models identified in the academic literature Method: Follows a narrative review and the meta-analysis technique for the discussion of definitions and representations in the context of Information Science. Results: Eight most frequent and consolidated metric approaches were identified (i.e. Altmetrics, Archivometic, Bibliometrics, Cybermetrics, Scientometrics, Informetrics, Patentometrics, and Webometrics), along with their genealogy, the authors responsible for their seminal concepts, and their evolution over the years, which allowed us to introduce more robust concepts reflecting their current state and application. We propose an innovative dimensional representation of metric subfields that seeks to overcome the limitations of existing models. We classify each of them independentlyaccording to three axes (locus, focus and fluxus), with respect to the context of their objects and purposes of interest, how metrics are produced and where they circulate. Conclusions: Findings offer a better conceptual clarification about the epistemological evolution of metric approaches that may foster future research and teaching activities related to the theme, allowing a better understanding about their history and current state.