Discusses the problems caused for both users and systems by queries containing negation, and presents an algorithm for transforming Boolean queries with negated terms into queries without negation using a hierarchical thesaurus. A set of user requests submitted to an academic library are also examined to determine the pattern and frequency of use…

Describes a project at the University of Sheffield that is investigating the use of nearest-neighbor retrieval algorithms for full-text searching. Nearest-neighbor searching is compared with Boolean retrieval and hypertext, and an experimental text retrieval system called INSTRUCT (Interactive System for Teaching Retrieval Using Computational…

Discusses problems associated with teaching non-recursive binary searching in computer language classes, and describes a teacher-directed dialog based on dictionary use that helps students use their previous searching experiences to conceptualize the binary search process. Algorithmic development is discussed and appropriate classroom discussion…