Discusses the advantages of a computer retrieval system used by the Modern Language Association and the problems encountered in the use of computers in general, particulary by humanists. Touches on the impact of technology on the printed word. (HTH)

Discussion of standards and protocols (set of rules by which two computers or other electronic devices can exchange data for same purpose) highlights history of standards and their interaction with the design and evolution of real computer networks. Topics noted include reference models; conformance, compatibility, and interoperability; and…

Discusses evolution of Integrated Library System (ILS) since its beginning at National Library of Medicine, highlighting events leading to ILS development; formative design stages, formation of Online Computer System; installation of ILS version 1.0 at Pentagon library; development of version 2.0, formation of Avatar Systems; OCLC's acquisition of…

Notes applications of information technology in archival activity, highlighting computer use in management of records centers and archives, intellectual control including computer indexing and online retrieval, and preservation of machine-readable records. Cooperative development of archival systems and impact of mini- and microcomputers are…

Surveys the current state of minicomputer-operated information systems capable of incorporating linguistic features, focusing on the Minicomputer Operated Retrieval (Partially Heuristic) System. Consideration is given to the automation of the indexing process and to available search strategies. (FM)

Europe's lag in databanks and online commercial availability is contrasted to its lead in numbers of bibliographic files. Intelligent use of new technologies such as Viewdata and the European Communications Satellite are expected to correct this imbalance. (RAA)

The heterogeneous environment of information retrieval on the World Wide Web has brought the recognition for the need of interoperability among diverse systems to the fore. In subject retrieval, users encounter not only different vocabularies and schemes, but also different languages. As a result, there has been a flourish of projects in the last…

Comments on significant steps that have contributed to current level of bibliographic control of social science machine-readable data files (MRDF). Problems to be considered before MRDF can be integrated into existing bibliographic utilities are outlined. Twenty references and MARC format, catalog entry, and data abstract for an MRDF are appended.…

Reviews research that has been relevant to improved user access to online information retrieval systems: (1) background; (2) natural language interfaces; (3) information retrieval system interfaces; and (4) modification of systems through user feedback. A 29-item bibliography is included. (Author/JD)

Details distinction between digital and analog data, advantages of analog storage, and optical disc use to store analog data. Configuration and potential of three levels of laser disc systems are explained. Selection of display devices for use with laser disc systems and accessing audio data are addressed. (Continued in next issue.) (EJS)

Examines two methods of generating synthetic speech in voice response systems, which allow computers to communicate in human terms (speech), using human interface devices (ears): phoneme and reconstructed voice systems. Considerations prior to implementation, current and potential applications, glossary, directory, and introduction to Input Output…

Assesses the development of videotex, an information system involving both computers and communications, noting efforts in Europe, Canada, and the United States. Federal regulations in the telecommunications industry, technical standards for videotex, and the production of videotex system components are discussed. (EJS)

Presents an overview of nonbibliographic computerized databases in business and economics, science and technology, and the social sciences, and discusses some major issues in the field. (FM)

Explores context in information seeking as equivalent to the situation in which a process is immersed. Discusses contingency approaches that detail active ingredients of the situation that have specific, predictable effects. Examines major frameworks for meaning systems. Discusses how a deeper appreciation of context can enhance understanding of…

Describes three categories of computer-based information systems for career guidance (batch process, online information retrieval, and online career guidance), addresses the issue of effectiveness, and discusses the approach to system selection used for the Illinois Career Information Delivery System (CIDS) Feasibility Study. Thirty-one references…