This booklet is an instruction manual for those using the FOCUS database, an information source on dropout prevention of the National Dropout Prevention Center. An introduction lists the FOCUS files, which include Program Profiles, Calendar of Events, Resource Materials Library, Organizations, and Consultants and Speakers. Also given is the…

Computerized literature searching allows the educator to become familiar with resources that help develop individual teaching styles and methods, enhance awareness of pupil needs, explain educational research and evaluation, and describe curriculum materials. This document introduces the fundamentals of computerized literature searching. The…

Provides suggestions for using on-line database systems (CompuServe, The Source, Dow Jones) in the classroom, presenting examples of the kinds of information and services available from CompuServe. Major CompuServe submenus are provided to illustrate encyclopedia searches, use of reference library, news sources, and accessing clubs and special…

Written for potential users of ERIC, this digest provides basic facts about the information storage and retrieval system, the migrant education materials available, and the role of the ERIC Clearinghouse on Rural Education and Small Schools (ERIC/CRESS). The following questions are answered: (1) what is ERIC and how does it work; (2) what…

Describes some of the most active school library programs for introducing elementary and secondary school students to online searching. Highlights include searches performed by librarians and students; skills acquired by students (search strategy, choosing appropriate databases, accessing information online); frequently searched databases; and…

Eight articles in special supplement to "Library Journal" and "School Library Journal" cover a computer program called "Byte into Books"; microcomputers and the small library; creating databases with students; online searching with a microcomputer; quality automation software; Meckler Publishing Company's…

As the need to access information increases, school librarians must create virtual libraries. Linked to reliable reference resources, the virtual library extends the physical collection and library hours and lets students learn to use Web-based resources in a protected learning environment. The growing number of virtual schools increases the need…

Activities of the new ERIC Clearinghouse on Assessment and Evaluation (ERIC/AE) are described, and planned activities and services are reviewed. ERIC/AE gathers information pertaining to assessment, evaluation, and learning theory; and it makes that information available to a number of audiences through print and electronic media. (SLD)

Responding to an informal survey, 96 media specialists named favorite software, CD-ROMs, and online sites. This article lists automation packages, electronic encyclopedias, CD-ROMs, electronic magazine indexes, CD-ROM and online database services, electronic sources of current events, laser disks for grades 6-12, word processing programs for…

Recent forms of technology which have essentially altered the types of services that libraries can provide are discussed in five articles. The areas covered include the problematic aspects of automating reference services, a successful goal oriented approach to automating reference services, and the impact of new technologies on school media…

This proceedings contains 56 papers, presentation summaries, and/or slide presentations pertaining to the Internet, World Wide Web, intranets, and library systems. Topics include: Web databases in medium sized libraries; Dow Jones Intranet Toolkit; the future of online; Web searching and Internet basics; digital archiving; evolution of the online…

Despite increasing and widespread access to more information, finding published research, studies, and literature in the field of education and psychology has become more complex. This paper demonstrates how to access published literature in various formats, including books, journal articles, conference proceedings, lesson plans, media, Web sites,…

This issue presents 42 articles that provide an overview of current reference services in all types of libraries in Illinois. Highlights include designing reference areas; policies and manuals; the reference interview; reference tools; automated databases; resource sharing; services to youth; services to special populations; and reference…