Presents a conceptual overview of online information systems, emphasizing the distinction between hypertext (associative) and more traditional (search) models of information management. Five commercially available hypertext systems are reviewed, hypertext design issues are discussed, and the application of structured writing techniques to…

Discusses methods for the retrieval of help knowledge items using graphical tree structures that conform to the hierarchical nature of the tutorial information being referenced. The implementation of "Study Tree Presenter," a special purpose "hypertext shell" that provides such access is described and several samples of screen…

Describes the potential library uses of technology that link video cameras, video recorders, and microcomputers. The equipment is explained, including color video printers; costs are examined; and library uses are discussed, including the provision of access to material that cannot be photocopied, archival storage, and photo enhancement. (LRW)

Describes the construction and use of a microcomputer-based experimental system designed to examine the role of visual context in the analyses of data displayed in computer graphics. The responses of end users to changes in visual context of business graphics are examined, and future experiments are discussed. (Seven references) (LRW)

Compares two authoring tools that were developed to enable users without programing experience to create and modify software. HyperCard, designed for Macintosh microcomputers, and ToolBook, for microcomputers that run on MS-DOS, are compared in the areas of programing languages, graphics and printing capabilities, user interface, system…

Discussion of the use of authoring systems for courseware development focuses on guidelines to be considered when designing authoring systems. Topics discussed include allowing a variety of instructional strategies; interaction with peripheral processes such as student records; the editing process; and human factors in computer interface design,…

Examines trends in the design of database management systems for microcomputers and predicts developments that may occur in the next decade. Possible developments are discussed in the areas of user interfaces, database programing, library systems, the use of MARC data, CD-ROM applications, artificial intelligence features, HyperCard, and…

Describes a Macintosh user interface to the NOTIS (Northwestern Online Total Integrated System) online public access catalog (OPAC) developed at the University of Delaware. Adaptation of the HyperCard-based interface from Cornell University, MacPAC, is described; testing and marketing is discussed; and future developments are addressed. (six…

Describes the hardware components of a CD-ROM workstation and offers guidelines for selection decisions. Components discussed include CD-ROM drives; keyboards; monitors, including color and monochrome; graphics; microcomputers, including memory requirements; disk storage, including hard disks and floppy disks; and printers. Turnkey systems are…

Outlines the development of a computer-based means of assessment and training for motorized wheelchair users. Programs designed to run on a BBC microcomputer that allow the ability of a severely handicapped person to be tested are explained; a joystick-controlled wheelchair simulation is described, and its use with children highlighted.…

Describes computer systems that combine drill and practice instruction with computer-managed instruction (CMI) and identifies system characteristics in four categories: (1) hardware, (2) software, (3) management systems, and (4) methods of daily operation. Topics discussed include microcomputer networks, graphics, feedback, degree of learner…

Discusses the use of hypertext for publishing and other document control activities in higher education. Topics discussed include a model of hypertext, called GUIDE, that is used at the University of Arizona Medical School; the increase in the number of scholarly publications; courseware development by faculty; and artificial intelligence. (LRW)

Describes a system that combines computer-assisted learning (CAL) with interactive video. It was designed in England for an undergraduate pathology course. Hardware, based on a BBC microcomputer, is described; the design of interactive graphics is explained; and the tutorial design, using an authoring system, is discussed. (26 references) (LRW)

Describes the architecture of the prototype of an image management system that has been used to develop an application concerning images of frescoes in the Sistina Chapel in the Vatican. Hardware and software design are described, the use of local area networks (LANs) is discussed, and data organization is explained. (15 references) (LRW)

Discussion of graphical user interfaces for online public access catalogs (OPACs) covers the history of OPACs; OPAC front-end design, including examples from Indiana University and the University of Illinois; and planning and implementation of a user interface. (10 references) (EA)