Describes the Macintosh CD-ROM edition of "Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary" and discusses advantages and disadvantages of using the electronic dictionary in library media skills instruction. Use in large group instruction is discussed and advantages are highlighted, including the large print feature, sound feature, and ability…

Provides suggestions for using live demonstrations of online searching to promote dynamic interaction in online instruction. Equipment for live demonstrations is described, including a microcomputer, modem, communications software, and computer projection system; search demonstration techniques are discussed; audience dynamics are considered; and…

This article reports the findings of a study which compared three methods for teaching freshmen at Indiana State University how to use the library's online catalog. The methods were: (1) video projection, which used a large screen video projection system and an IBM-PC to present a "live" search; (2) dual television monitors, which substituted two…

This document presents a library research exercise developed at York College which uses the Apple IIe microcomputer and word processing software--the Applewriter--to teach library research skills. Unlike some other library research exercises on disk, this program allows the student to decide on alternative approaches to solving the given problem:…

Designed to assist librarians in developing software packages to teach elementary bibliographic instruction on an individual basis with a microcomputer, this document describes four steps necessary to produce such a product. These include: choosing a topic with a limited amount of available library information; surveying the library's resources on…

Describes how the physical sciences library at Western Michigan University introduced a mathematical database on CD-ROM and trained patrons to conduct their own searches. The "Mathematical Reviews" database (entitled MathSci Disc) is described, and three types of training are discussed: informal demonstrations, self-instructional guides,…

Summarizes findings of a survey of academic and school libraries which identified software being used for bibliographic instruction. Representative software is described, including how it is used, and suggestions are offered for why computer assisted instruction hasn't been more widely used, and for promoting and using it more effectively. (EM)

Discussion of the cost effectiveness of searching online versus searching on CD-ROM highlights an example that compares costs for searching the ERIC database. Fixed costs and variable costs are described, labor costs are examined, implications for management are considered, and the effect of the number of databases and workstations is discussed.…

In the fall of 1990, the Computer Services Section of the Department of Public Instruction in North Carolina began a project to study how the use of an online catalog in the media center would influence student academic achievement and provide a vehicle for students to gain the skills needed to access information. For a year, the media…

Integrating the use of technology-based library resources into the curriculum is necessary for students to acquire vital information-seeking skills. Learning to select and use electronic information sources found on CD-ROM, mainframe computers, and via the Internet enables students to function better in today's information society. This paper…