This report provides instructional materials for a voluntary introductory workshop in the use of the Educational Resources and Information Clearinghouse (ERIC) database on CD-ROM. The workshop instruction is based on Leslie J. Brigg's Theories of Instructional Design with instructional objectives based on Robert Gagne's Learning Taxonomy. Library…

Reports on a four-year study of use patterns of CD-ROM databases in a biological sciences library. More than half the individuals recorded all use within one month. Over a third recorded use on only one day. Results suggest that the library should emphasize point-of-use instruction for first-time searchers and deemphasize workshops. (Contains 11…

Considers the increase in the variety of electronic reference options in academic libraries based on surveys of ARL (Association of Research Libraries) members. Discusses online catalogs; CD-ROM databases; World Wide Web access; and changes in library instruction, including formal instruction, point-of-use instruction, and Internet instruction.…

Describes a study that observed undergraduates as they searched bibliographic databases on a CD-ROM local area network. Topics include related research, information needs, evolution of search topics, database selection, search strategies, relevance judgments, CD-ROM interfaces, and library instruction. (Author/LRW)

A three-year study at the University of Alabama compared a traditional lecture method for teaching library research skills with a course-integrated, computer-enhanced approach by assessing each method's impact on the quality of bibliographies from engineering students' term papers. In four of the five semesters, no significant differences were…

Describes a study of secondary school library media specialists in Maine and Pennsylvania that was conducted to establish a baseline of data relating to the use of CD-ROM databases for reference purposes. Topics addressed include database titles; networking; staffing concerns; budget; funding; attitudes toward CD-ROMs; and training and curriculum…

Provides an analysis of selected research articles that address issues affecting school library media centers. Highlights include environmental psychology; circulation and collections; effects of automated circulation systems; female students' self-esteem and selection of women's biographies; instruction, information literacy skills, and…

Based on the conference theme, "Finding Ways: Excellence under Pressure," papers presented at the 1986 meeting of the association include: (1) "Coping with Budget Pressure: A Public Services Librarian's View" (Janet C. Lu); (2) "The Librarian, the Accession List, and the Database" (B. C. Wehrman); (3) "New Start:…

Reports on a study of CD-ROM products in Nigerian libraries and information centers that gathered information about funding sources, users, hardware configurations, and training facilities through a survey of research, public, and academic libraries. Recommendations for future CD-ROM use are included, and a copy of the survey is appended.…