Organizational commitment has been explored extensively over the past 40 years because of its benefits to individuals and the organization. Action learning, in turn, has been used by companies worldwide to develop leaders, teams and organizations. No study, however, has been undertaken to determine how action learning might develop organizational…

Selective analysis of the library literature affirms the difficulty of predicting accurately the rate of technological change and the interpretation of trends. A juxtaposition of the library predictions and those of science fiction writers reveals surprising bibliographic visions of the future. Nine references are listed. (MES)

Describes the concept of Information Based Education, provides a theoretical basis for investigating the role of information in education, and begins developing a classification scheme for documenting and distinguishing among information bases. Attributes of information associated with information resources, information skills, information…

Briefly reviews early work in documentation and text processing, and predictions that were made about the creative role of computers in information retrieval. An attempt is made to explain why these predictions were not fulfilled and conclusions are drawn regarding the limits of computer power in text retrieval applications. (Author/CLB)

Examines the implications of technology transfer in the area of computer and communications technology to the Asian third world. Benefits of and deterrents to technology transfer are explored, and experiences are discussed on a country by country basis. (19 references) (Author/MES)

The increased use of computer matching to detect fraud and abuse in government programs has led to concerns for the privacy of personal information. Reviews the use of matching programs and regulations in Canada, the United States, and the European Community, and suggests policy changes. (80 references) (LAE)

Discusses four major challenges to the field of educational technology in the late 1980s: (1) a theoretical challenge from cognitive science; (2) a technological challenge from information technology; (3) a political challenge from the Left; and (4) a moral challenge from radical critics. Ways that educational technologists should respond in the…

Discusses emerging roles for the library and librarian, including services in the following areas: (1) special collection management and reference; (2) information systems; (3) expert systems; (4) electronic publishing; (5) telecommunications networking; and (6) computer support. The technologies of artificial intelligence, graphic imaging,…

Examines communication technologies in the workplace, provides a brief overview of current research, and offers questions for further exploration. Offers a personal perspective based on the author's experiences as a product manager for NCR Corporation and as a computer industry consultant. Includes discussions on voice mail, fax, hypermedia, and…

Reviews several noncyclical, nonrepetitive hypotheses that try to predict broad spectrum maturational stages of overall information technology growth. Based on the areas of convergence among the hypotheses, several predictions are offered, and it is suggested that we are at a major transition point entering the third stage of computerized…

Examines the evolution of the U.S. standards process and its basis in U.S. political culture; evaluates the system in the light of the many structural changes taking place in the world economy; and suggests that a new balance must be struck between public and private sector roles. (23 references) (LAE)

Examines ethical considerations involved in the transfer of appropriate information technology to less developed countries. Approaches to technology are considered; two philosophical frameworks for studying ethical considerations are discussed, i.e., the Kantian approach and the utilitarian perspective by John Stuart Mill; and integration of the…

Discussion of the strategic value of information technology in business activities focuses on the use of information and knowledge. Highlights include the role of information in value creation; information as a competitive factor; the company as a consumer of information; and methods necessary for the successful use of information. (eight…

This paper summarizes the research and practice associated with the use of new information media and technology with Hispanic populations in the United States, and presents a case for making effective use of communications tools such as the microcomputer and videocassette recorders for improving the educational level and socioeconomic status of…

Compares current problems with optical disks to errors made with past technological innovations in libraries. Lack of hardware standardization, software incompatibility, and high prices are discussed. Widespread library commitment not to purchase optical disc systems until both technical standards and price guidelines are established is advocated.…