Discusses the special characteristics of personal file management software and compares four microcomputer software packages: Notebook II with Bibliography and Convert, Pro-Cite with Biblio-Links, askSam, and Reference Manager. Each package is evaluated in terms of the user interface, file maintenance, retrieval capabilities, output, and…

The fifth in a series of articles on microcomputer software for information storage and retrieval describes characteristics of and presents test results for seven programs in the following categories: personal information managers, including 3by5/RediReference, askSam, Dayflo Tracker, and Ize; Personal Librarian, a relevance ranking program; and…

Describes a study that assessed the availability and use of microcomputer database management interfaces to online public access catalogs. The software capabilities needed to effect such an interface are identified, and available software packages are evaluated by these criteria. A directory of software vendors is provided. (4 notes with…

This second in a series of articles on a software evaluation project conducted by the Netherlands Association of Users of Online Information Systems (VOGIN) lists and compares specifications, properties, and test results for nine microcomputer-based software programs that fall into the category of classical information retrieval systems. (26…

Provides a list of recent publications that review text management software which runs on IBM PCs and compatibles. Software functions covered include online searching of databases; information storage and retrieval; word processing; and computer-assisted instruction for retrieving online information. (LRW)

Describes five online databases that focus on computer products, primarily software and microcomputing hardware, and compares the databases in terms of record content, product coverage, vertical market coverage, currency, availability, and price. Sample records and searches are provided, as well as a directory of product databases. (CLB)

The fourth in a series of articles on the evaluation of microcomputer software for information storage and retrieval, conducted by the Netherlands Association of Users of Online Information Systems (VOGIN), presents test results for six indexing and full-text retrieval programs--Ask-It, KAware, Texplore, TextMaster, WordCruncher, and ZYindex. (13…

Discusses using a library database to aid students in book selection. Describes choosing a database program. Lists important database variables as desired grade level, difficulty level, length of book, and sex of the main character. Notes student critiques of the system. Summarizes five library database programs. (MVL)

Describes a portable CD-ROM machine intended for the mass market that provides access to searchable text, graphics, and audio through a user-friendly interface. Six search modes and other system features are reviewed, and electronic texts for the unit are introduced. A table compares features of the two available models. (NRP)

Describes readiness activities which introduce telecommunications skills into the classroom. Computer activities and programs that simulate message writing and data retrieval are highlighted, and writing exercises that do not require computers are also included. Specific instructions are given for PFS readiness, a program which simulates an…

Reviews database management software options for academic applications of pedagogy and research offering practical suggestions on choosing software. Software reviewed includes dBase III, Reflex, FYI 3000, Notebook II, AskSAM, Electra-Find, and Practicase. Program advantages, disadvantages, features, flexibility, and costs are discussed. A…

The eighth in a series, this report reviews microcomputer software authorized by the Alberta (Canada) Department of Education from January 1988 through December 1988. This edition provides detailed evaluations of 40 authorized programs for teaching business education, computer literacy, databases, file management, French, information retrieval,…