The role of politics in education is undeniable. It appears as though the influence of governing agents, from the White House to the local school board, is growing. During this time of increased calls for accountability and reform, a growing list of educational mandates is being handed to local education entities--increased use of testing,…

Reviews the copyright problems involved in interlibrary loans using photocopies of journal articles and describes the development of a document delivery system, in which materials are stored on optical disks, printed on demand, and a copyright fee is included in pricing. Technical and practical aspects of the system are discussed. (CLB)

Describes the findings of the Committee on Preservation of the National Archives and Record Service, which compared the effectiveness of machine readable records and microfilm as storage media for archives. Discussion of the disadvantages of machine readable records focuses primarily on the rapid changes in technology. (4 references) (CLB)

Reviews optical technology products currently on the market, including their storage capacities, formats and uses, and outlines the benefits of integrating optical storage devices with online databases. A description of the HAYSTACK system is offered as a model of optical technology for library applications. A suggested reading list is provided.…

This study conducted at Texas A&M University compares two types of training approaches using ERIC SilverPlatter (ERIC SP). Education students received either: (1) a one hour training session on basic search commands and strategies, or (2) a four page instructional handout that described basic search commands, Boolean logic, and special…

This SPEC (Systems and Procedures Exchange Center) kit provides a sample of excerpts from technical and planning documents contributed by 40 Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member libraries that are planning to install or have already implemented optical disc technology. Selected to represent a variety of media and applications, the…

The development and implementation of a high-tech laboratory in a small suburban high school in Pequannock Township, New Jersey, demonstrates that the high-tech future is both possible and valuable as it permeates the entire curriculum. In 1984, the vocational studies department shifted its emphasis to prepare students for college as well as for…

Describes the planning and implementation of a library automation system which encompasses four campus locations of a community college, and includes automation of technical processes and full access to holdings and circulation records of all the libraries involved. Software and hardware considerations are discussed, and guidelines to automation…

Advances in World Wide Web design software, photo compact disk images, print-screening processes, and four- and six-color printing can make the work of campus publications easier, cheaper, and more attractive, but also have potential pitfalls. A preview of the latest innovations, with advantages and disadvantages noted, is offered here. (MSE)

This guide is designed to help students understand civics and government as well as the social, organizational, and technological systems that effect citizenship. It proposes use of a multimedia curriculum intended to combine the skills, knowledge, and content of civics with the workplace. The guide provides a rationale for an interdisciplinary…

This report of the events at the American Library Association annual conference summarizes presentations and debates on several social issues as well as a manifesto addressing social and ethical problems that was presented at the conference. A list of officers and awards is provided. (CLB)