In 1996, the Colorado Library Resource Sharing and Information Access Board initiated a project to explore a patron-initiated interlibrary loan (ILL) system utilizing the ACLIN (Access Colorado Library Information Network) infrastructure and interfacing with local catalogs, remote databases, and bibliographic utilities. This report summarizes the…

Characterizes information retrieval systems in a network environment from a user's perspective along two axes: query and presentation. Several examples of early, current, and developing information retrieval systems are considered within this framework, and Daltext, a prototype system to support research on text-based retrieval systems, is…

Describes an approach to electronic document delivery which has evolved at Tilburg University (Netherlands), leading to the development of a system called Ariadne. Highlights include various generations of electronic document delivery systems; standards, including the work of the Group on Electronic Document Interchange; and a description of the…

Presents a way to model a large class of reference information based on a semantic network technique with embedded argumentation of the information provider. Shows by discussion of several alternatives that the approach is flexible enough to be adapted to different user and system requirements. (Author/AEF)

Examines influences on the use of electronic information resources, including the Internet. Highlights include information quality and accessibility; the Technology Assessment Model; the Fitness for Purpose model; the Theory of Planned Behavior; and a study in Australia that compared the ability of these models to explain electronic information…

Explores ways for librarians to improve search strategies in a globally networked computing environment. Discusses browsing versus more structured search strategies; thinking processes and information-seeking processes; supplementing the traditional reference interview with computer-based reference assistants; models for automating the reference…

Examines current OCLC practices and future possibilities under the leadership of K. Wayne Smith. Topics discussed include the changing roles of libraries, business, and government; the electronic information future; network possibilities, including the NREN (National Research and Education Network); future collaborations; online databases; and…

Describes a project that explores the combined use of Internet client-server technology and interactive computer modeling software for improving secondary science teaching. Classroom core practices are evaluated for traceable impacts of change in student learning. Contains 59 references. (DDR)

This brief information guide presents a model for developing a global classroom using computer-based technologies. The first chapter provides a working definition of global education and the reasons it is needed. Global networks enable students at all grade levels to acquire the knowledge and develop the skills to understand and guide their world.…

This report examines subsections of the computer network topology that relate to end-to-end performance and capacity planning in schools. Active star topology, Category 5 wiring, Ethernet, and intelligent devices are assumed. The report describes a model that can be used to project WAN (wide area network) connection speeds based on user traffic,…

An increasing amount of national attention is focused on connecting K-12 schools to the Internet, while at the same time, there is some debate on the benefits of using it in the classroom. Most teachers know the Internet is a source of information, but may not know how it works or how to use it. This ERIC Digest provides a framework to explain…

This paper summarizes and extends an earlier study that reviewed the literature on technology effectiveness, focusing on computers, traditional distance education, two-way interactive telecommunications, multimedia, and the Internet. It also adds some tools for technology evaluation as well as a rationale for using regions to distribute…

The Online Reference and Document Delivery Service Library Network developed at Eastern Oregon State College and operated in Eastern Oregon provides rural east Oregonians improved access to information sources via computers, telefacsimile, and telecommunications. Microcomputers have been placed in public, school, community college, and hospital…