Discovery layers provide a simplified interface for searching library resources. Libraries with limited finances make decisions about retaining indexing and abstracting databases when similar information is available in discovery layers. These decisions should be informed by student success at finding quality information as well as satisfaction…

The Mechanized Information Center, a department of The Ohio State University Libraries, offers to the campus community several batch-mode information services from commercially available data bases. The search request interview provides an opportunity for instruction regarding OSU's computer-based literature searches, automated library facilities,…

Discusses the incorporation of CD-ROM technology into Georgia State University's William Russell Pullen Library, and considers its impact on reference services and bibliographic instruction. Concludes that technology increases the need for critical thinking skills, faculty-librarian interaction, and human resources for reference and technical…

This report describes the conceptual content and hands-on activities of a course in online information retrieval skills offered at Stockton State College to expose undergraduate students to an important area of information science not traditionally included in undergraduate computer science curricula. Observations of student experience with the…

The user indicated several changes in library use habits as a result of the computer-based searches, among them more direct access to the primary literature and increased use of library resources as they had been made aware of new sources and media--e.g., microforms. (2 references) (Author/NH)

These two brief guides are designed to assist users in searching the GPO Monthly Catalog of Government Publications and the ERIC databases on CD-ROM produced by Silver Platter Information, Inc. Each guide contains step-by-step instructions for: (1) simple subject searching using basic Boolean connectors; (2) displaying and printing; (3) correcting…

Identifies problems inherent in using a "live" database search in initial instruction of online users and discusses the advantages of using prerecorded videocassette database searches as produced by University of California Berkeley's School of Library and Information Studies. A videotape explaining use of the online catalog…

For a music history research class, the students at the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa) must examine a musical artifact of their choice, thus learning standard and nonstandard research strategies. Utilizing both group instruction and individual tutorials, the music librarian and course professor teach cooperatively so that students use critical…

The workbook is designed to give students the basic information needed to conduct effective library research. It helps familiarize students with the Buffalo Information System ONline (BISON), as well as other sources, in print and online, that can be used to search for information. A worksheet is included for students to mark their answers to the…

To introduce undergraduate students to the library and to familiarize them with the various indexing systems and reference materials, the University of Michigan has produced this workbook designed specifically for their library. The information and exercises included cover physical layout, the card catalog, the Library of Congress Classification…

The study reported in this paper was conducted to determine the need for "see" references for authors' names in library catalogs. Nine-item patron questionnaires were placed in the University of Rhode Island's main library. Over the course of six years, 160 questionnaires were completed, 47 by undergraduate students, 76 by graduate…

Traditional methods of studying and evaluating use of online public access catalogs (OPACs) are discussed and compared to verbal protocol method (spoken records of people describing their work that uncover detailed data about thinking during problem solving). Results of Carnegie-Mellon University protocol study of OPAC users are discussed. (22…

Presents a search strategy for locating time-series or cross-sectional statistical data in published sources which was designed for undergraduate students who require 30 units of data for five separate variables in a statistical model. Instructional context and the broader applicability of the search strategy for general statistical research is…

Included in this collection of papers from the Louisiana Library Association's Academic Section 1982 Micro Symposium are (1) an overview of the history and changing role of academic libraries by Jane P. Kleiner; (2) "Afro-American Literature and the Contemporary Publishing Industry," a paper by Dorothy Davis which discusses the present state of…

A unit designed to help students write better papers by following a specific research strategy was added to a freshman English composition course. Following logical organization of a library from general to specific, the strategy enables students to engage in independent research and obtain high-quality information to support a paper. (EJS)