Discusses the use of a relational database as a data management and analysis tool for nonexperimental qualitative research, and describes the use of the Reflex Plus database in the Vitrine 2001 project in Quebec to study computer-based learning environments. Information systems are also discussed, and the use of a conceptual model is explained.…

There is a need to develop an interdisciplinary information base of publications related specifically to theory methodology and construction. Existing information sources focus primarily on the dissemination of ccompleted research project results. (Author/WM)

Presents analysis of online search patterns within user searching sessions of National Library of Medicine ELHILL system and examines user search patterns on the CATLINE database. Data previously analyzed on MEDLINE database for same period is used to compare the performance parameters of different databases within the same information system.…

The purpose of this article is to describe a system for protecting the anonymity of subjects in longitudinal research and for maintaining the security of data files. The basic system comes from the American Council on Education Cooperative Institutional Research Program. Data is collected from questionnaires, and converted to magnetic tape.…

Explores the intended and unintended outcomes of information technology on (1) business and economics, (2) research, and (3) library career preparation. Specific examples of the potential effects of databasing in these areas are provided, and four references are listed. (SW)

Reports results of study of a group of end users (patent attorneys) doing their own online searching at AT&T Bell Laboratories. Highlights include DIALOG databases used by the attorneys, locations and searching modes, characteristics of patent attorney searchers, and problem areas. Questionnaire is appended. (5 references) (EJS)

Constructing a longitudinal student outcomes data file takes careful planning and attention to detail, but investment in such a resource yields substantial dividends in the ability to document and explain complex patterns of student success. (Author)

Approaches to college student monitoring have been shaped by changing contexts and evolving technical capabilities, beginning with retention studies and developing into fully relational databases for cohort tracking. Institutional researchers should know this history and be aware of the specific demands for information that future tracking systems…

Reviews empirical studies about how digital libraries evolve for use in scientific and technical work based on the Digital Libraries Initiative (DLI) at the University of Illinois. Discusses how users meet infrastructure and document disaggregation; describes use of the DLI testbed of full text journal articles; and explains research methodology.…

The evolution of the student tracking system at Amarillo College, a Texas community college, is chronicled for three stages: (1) early efforts; (2) participation in the development of a consortium-based longitudinal student tracking project beginning in 1986; and (3) more recent developments. Tools and techniques used at each stage are discussed…

Development, structure, and uses of multi-institutional and statewide student databases at the state level are examined, based on results of a national survey of state higher education agencies. The issue of confidentiality is also discussed. Construction and uses of a multi-institutional system in Colorado are then described, and its advantages…

This document contains 11 papers: "Integrated English/Keyboarding Instruction: Potential for Contextual Learning" (Baker, Anderson-Yates); "Incorporating Industry-Based Skill Standards into High School Secretarial and Administrative/Information Services Programs" (Bunn, Schmidt, Stewart); "The Effect of Two Different Interfaces for Database…

A discussion of new technologies and strategies for monitoring college student progress identifies four stages of developing information systems: (1) problem definition and systems specification; (2) data extraction and synthesis; (3) data analysis; and (4) dissemination. Some trends in use of data sources, analysis types, tracking capabilities,…

Arizona State University has created longitudinal student files capable of tracking each student's curricular and financial aid history from entry until graduation. The structure of the files, their creation and maintenance, and their evolution over the years are described. Uses of the files to conduct different kinds of studies to inform…