The aim of this study is to gain a better understanding of children’s tendencies when searching information, by exploring how their motivation and information searching capabilities are affected and shaped depending on whether the assignment derives from internal or external motivation. These tendencies will be analysed by examining what different tools the children use as well as how the information is gained.

The empirical data was collected by semi-structured interviews with six pupils in grade six, in a Swedish school. The data was coded and analyzed using Ryan’s and Deci’s sub theory Organismic Integration Theory and Savolainen’s ELIS-model.

The result of my study shows that children use varying tools depending on the situation. In school, they use their computers and the search engine Google. External factors regulate the devices used in school. During their free time they use their phones since they are easily accessible, and a greater variety of tools than they use in school. The children use distinct strategies to evaluate and contrast information; mostly in school but also during their free time.

An elevated understanding of children’s motivation towards searching information could help school and society to support children and the younger generation in their search for information. They could be given help regarding what tools to use, and how to search, choose and evaluate information.