Reviews nomenclature-related problems for users of Chemical Abstracts (CA) and describes online techniques for searching with generic/trade/common names, non-CA index names, and CA index names using CAS-Online via STN (Scientific and Technical Information Network). Terms used in the online substance display format are explained. (10 references)…

The kaleidoscope is a toy that turns chips of colored glass into endlessly varied patterns through the use of mirrors. There's something satisfying about patterns--we need them to create meaning, and we find beauty in their symmetry. Yet complex systems defy simple formulas. For example, it is impossible to describe something as mundane as the…

Scholarship has not undergone a paradigm shift in terms of argument and research with the introduction of the Web-based information world. Searching, on the other hand, has undergone a significant shift. In teaching students to find, use, and evaluate information, librarians and instructors need a useful model of the information world that enables…

Reports on a study of the information-seeking behavior of users of Infotrac, OCLC, Newsbank Electronic Index, and LS/2 at the Bowling Green State University Libraries. Data gathered via interviews are discussed as they pertain to the user's profile; understanding of systems functions; effects on information-seeking behavior; and appropriateness of…

Provides a model for librarians to expand their traditional teaching roles in order to reach users outside the library building. Describes the development of a series of modules designed to teach users how to do research on the Web based on experiences at Widener University, and considers future possibilities. (Author/LRW)

Examines the reasons why "more" subject access in online catalogs is not necessarily "better" and recommends that librarians prepare a statement informing users of what they need to know before using the catalog and how best to make use of its listing. (EM)

Discusses the increasing diversity on college campuses with foreign students and reports results of a study on end-user searching that employs both gender and language variables in analyzing search success, techniques, and satisfaction. An analysis by language background indicates a correlation between native language and searching ability.…

Discussion of team teaching focuses on librarians team teaching a course on information search strategy at the Pennsylvania State Berks Campus Library. Course requirements are described, planning for the course is discussed, grading practices are reviewed, and course and instructor evaluations are described. (two references) (LRW)

Teaching how to choose a research topic in a bibliographic instruction class should emphasize the underlying methods and principles of library research while making research tools as unobtrusive as possible. This approach teaches the basics of scientific inquiry and provides a structure in which to teach library skills. (EM)

Discusses challenges and results of integrating hands-on DIALOG labs into several Stanford University undergraduate courses (small library-oriented course, small subject-specific seminar, large health policy lecture course) to arouse student interest in information retrieval strategies and "demystify" computer searching. Evaluation of…

Describes a collaborative workshop designed by the Associated College Libraries of Central Pennsylvania to identify and teach World Wide Web search skills to librarians. Highlights include how information get on the Web and is indexed; evaluation of Web resources; types of search sites; and which search engine is the best. (Author/LRW)

For a music history research class, the students at the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa) must examine a musical artifact of their choice, thus learning standard and nonstandard research strategies. Utilizing both group instruction and individual tutorials, the music librarian and course professor teach cooperatively so that students use critical…

Describes a course on information gathering and evaluation that is required for journalism and mass communication majors at the University of Minnesota. Search strategies and the search process are emphasized; weekly assignments and requirements for the final project are explained; and goals and objectives of the course are discussed. (LRW)

Describes the approach and materials for an undergraduate workshop in research skills and analyzes its successes and failures. Outlines steps to "Power Researching," questions to ask about topics, how to read and write citations, and evaluation of information sources. Provides a bibliography of sources on the search process, topic analysis and…

This study evaluates the use of full-text databases amongst 425 undergraduate and graduate students in western New York. A review of literature implicated convenience, time issues, article retrieval option knowledge, and the appreciation and understanding of research article quality as potential predictors of full-text reliance. These variables…